Insulin Pens and Insulin Shots
Author: tiger Published Under: Health
Diabetes is a disease that affects about 1/20 of the worlds population and is increasingly common among Western Countries. Diabetes Mellitus is characterized by the bodies inability to properly break down and use glucose, which is a type of sugar used for energy.
In those with Type I Diabetes, the body will not produce enough, or in some instances any, insulin, which is a hormone produced by the pancreas and used to break down glucose. Among those with Type II diabetes, the body will develop an insulin resistance.
For those with Type I Diabetes, insulin shots are used to help control blood sugar levels. Through careful blood glucose monitoring, the level of blood sugar is measured and if it is too high an insulin shot is given. Treatment of Type II Diabetes often relies upon maintaining a healthy diet and taking medicines to reduce insulin resistance, although insulin shots are also used for Type II Diabetes.
Typically, those with diabetes will administer their own diabetic shots. Once over the age of 10, most children are capable of administering their own insulin shots.
Often a syringe and needle are used, although any people also prefer to use diabetic pens. Insulin pens are more discreet and also easier to use.
To preform an insulin injection, one simply fills the syringe with the prescribed amount of insulin. The needle should be inserted quickly into a pinched section of skin, but the insulin itself should be injected slowly. It is important that you do not always inject the insulin into the same place on your body.
Insulin pens are used in much the same manner as an insulin injection. A dial lets you adjust how much insulin will be administered and a disposable needle is attached to the front of the pen. Then the insulin pen is simply pressed onto the body and it will do the rest.