Tip of the Day

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Question:

My doctor suggested I start using insulin. Will I be able to handle this regimen at my age?

Answer:

Yes. You may feel scared or overwhelmed, but the mechanics of drawing the insulin dose and giving an injection are simple to do. If you already have a good management plan consisting of a meal plan, exercise, and oral medications, you have experience that will help you use insulin. You will need to check your blood glucose levels more often because now they can drop too low, and you don�t want that to happen. You�ll need to carry snacks or glucose tablets with you at all times to bring low blood glucose back up. Along with your regular oral medications, you will probably start with a bedtime injection of intermediate- or long-acting insulin to restore normal morning glucose so your oral medications will work better during the day. If blood glucose control worsens, you�ll probably move on to several insulin injections a day. No one likes injections, but they keep you healthier, and most people find them to be much less trouble than they expected. Once you face your fear and get some practice, you�ll be amazed at how well you do.