Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. Insulin helps glucose enter our cells, so without insulin, the glucose stays in the blood causing high blood glucose levels (BGLs). Without insulin, the body is unable to convert the carbs we eat into the glucose we need for energy. This is why people with Type 1 Diabetes need daily
insulin injections for survival. As Type 2 Diabetes is a progressive condition, it is not uncommon for people with Type 2 Diabetes to eventually need insulin too.
There are 16 different types of Insulin in Australian, falling under five categories: rapid acting, short acting, long acting, intermediate acting, and mixed. You may be on more than one kind of insulin, depending on your management needs.
Insulin can be given manually via a
needle injection, or through an insulin pump system. If you are using needles, there are important points to remember to ensure you are receiving your medication correctly every time.
- Use a new needle for every injection - a reused needle becomes blunt and therefore painful to use. A 6 or 8mm needle is good for everyone, no matter your weight.
- Avoid injecting into belly button or scar tissue - injecting into scar tissue may interfere with absorption of your
insulin.
- Do an "air shot" of at least 2 units - this will prime the needle and ensure you get your full insulin dose.
- Rotate the site of injection - repeated in injections in the same spot can lead to Lipohypertrophy (belly boobs). This is a buildup of fatty lumps and your insulin will not be absorbed correctly.
When it comes to storing your insulin, there are a few more things that need to considered. Keep insulin cold in the door of your fridge, do not
let freeze or overheat. The insulin you are using can be injected and kept at room temperature for up to a month. Do not use insulin once it is out of date, or has been opened for more than 28 days.
If you are having trouble with your insulin injections, please come see our diabetes educator Annette. She can run you through the injections step-by-step, and troubleshoot any problems you may be experiencing. If you are interested in progressing from needles to an
insulin pump, Annette can also begin this process with you. Click the video below to learn more about Insulin Pump Therapy.
