Does Starting Insulin Mean Diabetes Has Become Severe?

• The pancreas gradually produces less insulin.
• Blood sugar remains high despite tablets and lifestyle changes.
• Very high sugar at diagnosis, to bring it down quickly.
• Illness, infection, surgery or hospital stay.
• Pregnancy.
• Kidney or liver problems that limit the use of some tablets.
• Steroid medicines that raise blood sugar.

• "Insulin means I am at the last stage." Insulin is a treatment option, not an end stage.
• "Once I start, I cannot stop." Some people can reduce or stop insulin if sugar improves, for example after weight loss or recovery from an illness. This depends on the person.
• "Insulin causes complications." Complications come from long-term high sugar, which insulin helps control.
• "Injections are very painful." Modern pens use very fine needles, and most people find them easy to use.

Controlled sugar lowers the risk of damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. Delaying insulin when it is needed allows high sugar to keep causing harm.

• Insulin can cause low blood sugar, so you need to know the symptoms and how to treat them.
• Weight gain can occur, and diet and activity help to manage it.
• Your doctor will guide the type, dose and timing.

• Insulin is a treatment, not a punishment.
• Type 2 diabetes often needs insulin as it progresses.
• Starting on time protects organs.
• Learn to recognise and treat low sugar.

Many people feel anxious about insulin, and that is understandable. Dr. Tamoghna Das, an internal medicine and cardio-diabetology specialist at Medcare Diabetes & Obesity Clinic, can explain why and when insulin is helpful and teach you how to use it with confidence.

This article is part of our guide to diabetes medicine treatment options, written for patients and families in Bongaigaon.