After a meal, food is broken down into glucose. In order for the body's cells to use or store glucose, insulin is needed. However, for people with diabetes, insulin deficiency is a common problem because they have difficulty producing insulin or properly using it. When this occurs, excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, causing blood sugar to rise. Over time, high blood glucose levels can lead to other serious health conditions. Fortunately, insulin, along with diet and exercise, can help manage diabetes.

Insulin Medication

People with an insulin deficiency generally require medication, more specifically, insulin. There are five types of insulin including rapid-acting, intermediate-acting, short-acting, long-acting, and premixed. These types of insulin vary in terms of onset, peak, and duration. For instance, rapid-acting insulin begins to work almost immediately; however, it only lasts for a short period of time. On the other hand, intermediate-acting insulin doesn't enter the bloodstream until 2 to 4 hours after injection. Unlike rapid-acting insulin, intermediate-acting insulin can last up to 18 hours. With the help of a physician, you can choose the type of insulin that best suits your treatment plan.

Insulin in Type 1 and 2 Diabetes

Insulin plays a large role in controlling diabetes. Since Type 1 diabetics are insulin resistant, insulin injections are the most effective form of treatment. Depending on your glucose levels, you may need to use insulin 2 to 4 times a day.

For people with Type 2 diabetes, insulin is sometimes unnecessary. Type 2 diabetics may either be insulin deficient or insulin resistant. If oral medication is effective in lowering your blood sugar, you may not require insulin. However, oral medications may not be enough for some with Type 2 diabetes. Insulin should be used in these cases.

Insulin Supplies

Insulin is commonly injected using a syringe; however, other methods, like insulin pens and pumps, are also effective. Some insulin pens may contain an insulin cartridge, while others are already filled with insulin. Since these pens can only contain one type of insulin, two injections are needed if you're using an additional insulin type.

Insulin pumps can simplify your treatment plan. Rather than using a syringe or pen several times a day, an insulin pump works 24 hours a day. With an insulin pump, you don't have to interrupt your daily routine. However, wearing an insulin pump every day may be inconvenient for some. For this reason, it may be beneficial to try using a syringe or pen first. If you find multiple daily injections to be time-consuming or unpleasant, you may want to switch to an insulin pump.

Insulin Risks

It's important to discuss the risks associated with diabetes. Insulin plays a large role in diabetes management; however, misuse of insulin can damage your health. Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood sugar level is dangerously low. This can be due to having too much insulin in your system. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include fatigue, nausea, seizure or even coma. You can reduce your risk for hypoglycemia by checking your blood glucose level before using insulin.

To treat diabetes, insulin and other medications may be needed. A balanced diet and regular exercise can also help manage your diabetes. Consult your physician before deciding what type of insulin and insulin device works best for you.