Diabetes Guide – How to Inject and use insulin
Insulin is a peptide hormone that is produced in the pancreas and helps the body’s cells utilize glucose for energy. It allows the glucose to travel from the blood into cells. As we know, there are two types of diabetes: type 1 and 2. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce insulin, while in type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin properly. Diabetes is a chronic disease, but can be managed by adopting a few lifestyle changes such as following a proper diet, regular exercise, regular intake of prescribed medications, and proper and timely use of insulin. Individuals suffering from type 1 diabetes are required to inject insulin for the rest of their life. Although the very idea may seem laborious, one can learn to use and inject insulin with the right guidance from healthcare professionals and with practice. Before injecting the insulin, be sure to check its quality. If the insulin was refrigerated, let it come to room temperature. If the insulin looks opaque, roll the insulin vial between your palms to mix the contents properly. One should not shake the insulin vial. Moreover, thickened, discolored, and grainy insulin should not be used. Here are the steps to use and inject insulin properly.