|  | Conditions Treatments | Diabetes

Side Effects of Insulin Shots

Insulin, a natural hormone produced by the body, is important to maintaining one's health because it helps the body properly break down sugar. Insulin lowers glucose (blood sugar) levels within the bloodstream, which keeps the symptoms of diabetes under control. Insulin aspart, a type of insulin that reacts more swiftly, is commonly injected under the skin and should be taken immediately before eating. A person with type 1 diabetes needs to keep insulin on hand at all times and to maintain a safe blood sugar level, especially during times of added stress, illness or improper eating. Doctors in the United States can prescribe from more than 20 types of insulin. Any signs of side effects from an insulin shot should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible to ensure the patient's long-term health is not in danger.

  1. Allergic Reaction

    • Diabetes patients new to receiving insulin shots need to be on the lookout for any signs of an allergic reaction to the insulin. Signs to be aware of are itchy rashes all over the body, trouble breathing or wheezing, an accelerated heart rate, profuse sweating or severe dizziness.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Insulin can produce certain side effects that need to be brought to the attention of a doctor. These side effects include swelling of the hands or feet and a dangerously low level of potassium in the body (hypokalemia), which is indicated by an abnormal heart rate, feeling of thirst or confusion, frequent urination, discomfort in the leg or a weakening of the muscles.

    Hypoglycemia

    • More commonly referred to as low blood sugar, hypoglycemia is the side effect that is seen most often by users of insulin shots. Signs to watch out for are headaches, feelings of nausea, tiredness, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, weakness, accelerated heart rate, sweating, trembling or seizures. Low blood sugar levels need to be attended to immediately, which is why diabetics always keep some non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with them at all times.

    Weight Gain

    • Weight gain is a side effect experienced by many diabetics when they first begin to use insulin because, in part, of the need to adjust low blood sugar levels immediately through eating foods or drinking substances high in carbohydrates and sugar. This can result in consuming more calories. If a problem persists in weight gain, a registered dietician should be consulted.

    Avoidance of Side Effects

    • It is important to avoid the occurrence of side effects and allergic reactions to insulin shots by maintaining clear, accurate communication with the doctor. Make sure the doctor is aware of past problems with any medications, current medications that are being taken daily and the regular consumption of any supplements of vitamins or herbs. Any of the above information can lead the doctor into a different direction as to the type of insulin that should be prescribed.

Diabetes - Related Articles