In this article, we look at what insulin is and who needs to take it. We also cover the side effects, risks, and myths of insulin therapy and provide tips for taking insulin safely.
What is insulin?
Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate the amount of sugar in the blood.
When a person eats, their digestive system breaks down the food into a simple sugar known as glucose, which raises blood sugar levels. The pancreas responds to this by releasing insulin, which causes sugar to move from the bloodstream into the body’s cells, which need it as an energy source. The body also stores some of the excess sugar in the liver.
Insulin has a counterpart called glucagon, which is a hormone that works in the opposite way. When blood sugar is too low, the pancreas secretes glucagon, which causes the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream.
The body uses insulin and glucagon to ensure that blood sugar levels do not get too high or too low and that cells are getting enough glucose.
Scientists can make synthetic insulin, which doctors use to treat some people with diabetes.
Many different types and brands of insulin are available for use in the U.S. The side effects that a person may experience will depend on the type of insulin that they are taking.
However, some common side effects include:
- initial weight gain as the body starts to adjust to the therapy
- blood sugar that drops too low, which is known as hypoglycemia
- rashes, bumps, or swelling around the injection site
- headaches
- upper respiratory infections, such as colds and sore throats
- anxiety or depression
- a cough
If a person’s blood sugar drops too low, they may experience symptoms such as:
- dizziness
- trouble speaking
- fatigue
- confusion
- pale skin
- sweating
- twitching muscles
- seizure
- loss of consciousness
There is also the possibility that taking insulin will cause more severe side effects, although these are less common.
A 2013 review compared metformin treatment with insulin therapy in people with type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that the insulin therapy group had an increased risk of a range of complications, including:
- heart attack
- stroke
- eye complications
- kidney problems
Another review concluded that the risks of insulin therapy might outweigh the benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. The authors highlighted the following downsides of the therapy:
- the need to increase the dose and complexity of the treatment plan over time
- the increased risk of severe hypoglycemia
- a potentially higher risk of death
- a possible increased risk of specific cancers
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), several common myths surround the use of insulin therapy for people with type 2 diabetes. People may sometimes hear others make the following statements, but they are all untrue:
- needing insulin means that a person failed to manage their condition adequately
- insulin significantly increases the risk of complications or death
- insulin causes lasting weight gain
- insulin therapy does not work
- insulin is painful to inject
- insulin is addictive
Tips for taking insulin safely
Insulin is a prescription medication. A person should speak to their doctor about:
- which type of insulin is right for them
- possible side effects
- how to administer insulin safely and effectively
People with type 2 or gestational diabetes should discuss with their doctor whether insulin therapy is the best choice for them. They may be able to use other treatment options to control their blood sugar levels, such as non-insulin medications and lifestyle and dietary changes.
It is essential that people who are taking insulin monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. Taking too much or too little insulin can lead to side effects or complications. It is also vital that a person follows the treatment schedule that they agreed with their doctor and avoids missing doses.
Anyone who experiences side effects from insulin therapy should speak to a doctor. It is possible that another treatment plan or a different type of insulin may be more suitable for their needs and lifestyle. A doctor can also advise on how to prevent or reduce certain side effects.
Takeaway
People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to control their blood sugar levels and remain healthy. Many individuals with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes can use non-insulin medications and dietary and lifestyle changes instead to manage their condition.
When taking insulin, it is vital that people follow their treatment plan. Anyone experiencing side effects or complications from insulin therapy should speak to their doctor, who can recommend other treatment plans or different types of insulin. A doctor can also provide advice on how to prevent or reduce certain side effects.
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