Insulin is an important hormone that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels. However, long-term insulin injections may cause some potential harm to the body. This article will ** both possible hazards and provide some recommendations to mitigate these risks.
First, long-term insulin injections may lead to hypoglycemia. Insulin works by facilitating the entry of glucose into cells, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. However, blood sugar levels may drop too low if the insulin dose is too high or if the diet is inadequate. Hypoglycemia may cause symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, sweating, heart palpitations, and in severe cases, coma and convulsions. Therefore, patients who have been on insulin injections for a long time need to monitor their blood glucose levels closely and take timely measures when hypoglycemia occurs, such as ingesting sugary foods or taking glucose tablets orally.
Second, long-term insulin injections may increase body weight. The role of insulin is to facilitate the entry of glucose into cells and its storage as energy or fat. However, if the insulin dose is too high or the diet is too high, the excess glucose may be converted into fat, leading to weight gain. In addition, insulin can also inhibit lipolysis and further increase fat accumulation. Therefore, patients who have been insulin injected for a long time need to control their diet, avoid excessive energy intake, and exercise moderately to maintain a healthy weight.
To mitigate these potential harms, patients should actively take the following steps:
First, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Patients should have their blood glucose measured regularly to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of insulin doses. If you notice an abnormal blood sugar level, you should report it to your doctor and adjust your insulin dose according to your doctor's recommendations.
Second, arrange your diet reasonably. Patients should follow the advice of their doctor or dietitian to develop a diet plan that works for them. This includes controlling carbohydrate intake, choosing low GI (glycemic index) foods, increasing vegetable and protein intake, and avoiding excessive intake of fat and sugar.
In addition, moderate exercise is also very important. Exercise can help improve the body's insulin sensitivity and promote glucose utilization and consumption. Patients can choose the right way to exercise, such as walking, running, swimming, etc., 3-5 times a week, each time for more than 30 minutes.
Finally, regular follow-up appointments and consultations with your doctor. Patients should have regular follow-up visits to communicate with their doctors about the effects of insulin and how well the doctor can adjust the insulin dose and regimen according to the patient's specific situation to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the insulin.
In conclusion, long-term insulin injections may be associated with potential harms such as hypoglycemia and weight gain. However, these risks can be mitigated by closely monitoring blood sugar levels, eating well, and exercising moderately. In addition, it is important to have regular follow-up appointments and consult with your doctor. Only under the guidance of a doctor can patients better manage insulin** and keep their body healthy and stable.