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insulin

W

weaver

Well-Known Member
Messages
48
it looks like I may well end up on insulin soon,how do i take it?I assume I inject it,does it come in throw away applicators with set dose or do I work out how much to give myself.Do you inject it into the top of your arm?Any info would be greatly appreciated
thanks
 
I use a mixed insulin which i inject twice a day. Half an hour before my breakfast and half an hour before evening meal. I have to eat at set times though which can be difficult.

Others use the basal/bolus system where you have a long acting insulin, usually once or twice a day and then inject a short acting insulin with meals.

I use a disposable pen which has a dial on it so i dial up the amount of insulin i need to inject. I inject into my stomach and tops of legs.

Don't worry whoever is starting you on insulin will explain everything to you.

Here is a link with some more information. if you look to the left when you open the link, under the word insulin there are other links that maybe useful for you.

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/Guide-to-dia ... s/Insulin/
 
thanks for the reply,looks like its going to make life a lot more complicated,I work shifts which doesnt help
 
Your DSN will help you with your doses, they will have saline filled pens so you can practice, and there is several place you can inject, again your DSN will advise on this

Tell them you are shift worker and want the most flexible solution, it does mean more daily injections, 1 before each meal, and one before bed(or the same time each day), but it does get you away from set mealtimes, and is more flexible if you end up eating late

My move to insulin has not made things too much more complicated, it's certainly nothing to get worked up about
 
Hi,
Honestly it's easy and nothing to worry about. I was on the mixed insulin twice a day
But the regimented meal times didn't suit my job so I'm now on the basal bolus system
with five injections a day which is much better for me. There are various injection sites
and the important thing is to rotate them to prevent soreness etc. i'm sure you'll be fine
just embrace it and don't be frightened of it. Your dsn will guide you through it and there
is loads of great advice on here from good people who have been there and done it.

Good luck,
Pete.
 
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