Signs and Symptoms Indicating Insulin Injections Are Not Working

The effectiveness of insulin injections is crucial for managing blood glucose levels, especially for individuals with diabetes. Here, we explore the signs and symptoms that indicate insulin may not be working as intended. Recognizing these signs is essential for prompt medical attention and adjusting treatment plans when necessary.

Common Signs That Insulin Injections May Not Be Working

When insulin injections aren’t working effectively, several common symptoms can manifest. These include:

High Blood Sugar Levels: Elevated blood glucose levels are a clear sign that insulin isn’t managing blood sugar as expected. Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination: Increased urination and thirst can indicate high blood sugar levels, signaling a possible insulin issue. Blurred Vision: People with high blood sugar levels often experience blurred vision, which can be a sign of insulin inefficacy. Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling constantly tired or experiencing muscle weakness can be a result of high blood sugar levels unmanaged by insulin. Slow Wound Healing: Wounds taking longer to heal can indicate poor sugar control, suggesting an issue with insulin. Increased Appetite: An increase in appetite can be a sign that the body is trying to source more glucose due to insulin’s inability to regulate blood sugar effectively.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist, as they can help identify the underlying cause and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Understanding Blood Glucose Levels and Insulin Efficacy

The reliability of insulin injections can be assessed by monitoring blood glucose levels. Regular checking helps in identifying when insulin is not functioning as expected. Here are some standard guidelines:

Pre-Meal Recommendations

Before meals, the target blood glucose level should ideally be:

No more than 100 mg/dl (5.55 mmol/L) for some patients, with a slightly higher recommendation from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) at: No more than 110 mg/dl (6.11 mmol/L).

Post-meal, the levels should not exceed:

120 mg/dl (6.67 mmol/L) most of the time and never higher than: 140 mg/dl (7.77 mmol/L) for some patients, with the AACE guideline being: No more than 160 mg/dl (8.9 mmol/L).

If your results hit these targets but after switching to a new insulin vial or pen, your post-meal levels are not coming down, the insulin might be impaired. Checking the expiry date of the insulin and storage conditions can also help rule out these possibilities.

Morning Fasting Blood Glucose Levels for Basal Insulins

For patients using long-acting insulins (basal insulin), the tell-tale sign of their efficacy is observed in the morning Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) level. If you notice that your FBG, taken the morning after a full day of insulin use, is higher than usual, it could indicate that your insulin is not working effectively.

For example, if you typically aim for an FBG around 100-110 mg/dl (5.55-6.11 mmol/L), and one morning your FBG is significantly higher, such as 196 mg/dl (10.9 mmol/L), it might be due to:

A hypo-glycemic event during the night causing an unexpected spike in blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia-rebound hyperglycemia caused by glucose intake after a hypoglycemic event.

In such cases, it is essential to evaluate the cause of the elevated FBG level before concluding on the insulin’s efficacy. Consulting with a healthcare provider can provide insights and personalized advice.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Insulin management requires careful monitoring and adjustment. If you notice any of the signs and symptoms mentioned, or if your blood glucose levels are not in the desired range, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Regular communication with your healthcare team and adherence to recommended treatment plans can help ensure effective management of diabetes and insulin therapy.