Q. Can your body reject insulin if badly controlled?
A. You seem concerned that your body may be rejecting insulin that is injected, which is leading to trouble controlling your blood glucose levels.
If so, is there a particular reason you think this may be happening? Your body does not reject injected insulin; however, if you are finding doses you are used to are not working as well or you are needing much higher doses, there could be a number of reasons for this.
The first thing to check is the insulin itself. Is the insulin within the expiry date? Has it been exposed to extreme hot/cold temperatures or has it been in use for over 28 days? Any of these things could mean the insulin is damaged. If you think it may be, or you are not sure, then it might be sensible to start a new vial just to be on the safe side.
Inspecting Your Insulin
Insulin, a critical hormone for regulating blood glucose levels, can lose its effectiveness under certain conditions. One of the primary factors affecting insulin efficacy is the quality of the insulin you're using. It's crucial to ensure that the insulin you inject is within its expiry date. Insulin that has expired may not work as expected and could lead to difficulties in controlling your blood sugar levels.
Additionally, be mindful of the storage conditions for your insulin. Extreme temperatures, whether excessively hot or cold, can impact its potency. If you suspect that your insulin has been exposed to extreme temperatures, it's advisable to discard it and start with a new vial. Remember, maintaining the quality of your insulin is a fundamental step in diabetes management.
Checking Your Injection Sites
Another aspect to consider is your injection sites or insertion sites. Are there any raised lumps, dimples, or hardened areas? These irregularities at injection sites can hinder the proper absorption of insulin. If you're unsure about the condition of your injection sites, it's a good idea to consult your diabetes nurse or healthcare provider for a thorough assessment.
Ensuring that your injection sites are in optimal condition can significantly contribute to the effectiveness of insulin therapy. Properly chosen and well-maintained injection sites can enhance insulin absorption and help you better manage your blood glucose levels.
Understanding Insulin Resistance
Another factor that can affect insulin's effectiveness is insulin resistance. This phenomenon occurs when your body's cells do not respond adequately to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. While insulin resistance can occur in various situations, it is often associated with factors like obesity and hormonal changes, particularly during adolescence.
Addressing Insulin Resistance
If you suspect insulin resistance is the cause of your insulin-related challenges, there are strategies to address it. For individuals who are overweight, losing excess weight can often improve insulin sensitivity and reduce resistance. However, insulin resistance may also develop independently of weight-related issues, particularly during adolescence when hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role.
In such cases, a combination of insulin injections and oral medications may be recommended to combat insulin resistance effectively. This approach aims to enhance insulin's ability to lower blood sugar levels and provide better control over diabetes.
Of course, whether insulin resistance is contributing to your insulin-related issues should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. Therefore, it's essential to communicate your concerns and experiences with your diabetes nurse or doctor. They can help identify the underlying causes of your insulin-related challenges and tailor a treatment plan to address them effectively.
In conclusion, while your body does not reject injected insulin, several factors can impact its effectiveness. Ensuring the quality of your insulin, maintaining optimal injection sites, and addressing insulin resistance are essential steps in achieving better control over your blood glucose levels. By working closely with your healthcare team, you can navigate these challenges and manage your diabetes more effectively.
Learn more about how you can get started with fitness & diabetes journey, talk to our experts today and GET A FREE CONSULTATION!
Source: Association of Diabetes UK
Comentários