Insulin use in the treatment of hyperglycaemia

Diabetes is a disease characterised by high blood glucose also known as hyperglycaemia.

As you’ve already discovered, this is due to a problem with insulin production or action and if left untreated, can result in persistent uncontrolled high blood glucose (hyperglycaemia).

Over a period of hours to days, uncontrolled hyperglycaemia can result in an increased osmotic diuresis (urination).

_{Figure: symptoms of hyperglycaemia}

Symptoms of hyperglycaemia can include:

• Thirst
• Increased urination
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Drowsiness

Over a period of months to years, uncontrolled hyperglycaemia can contribute to the premature occlusion of key blood vessels. This can result in a reduced blood supply to key organs in the body, which may then become damaged and function less efficiently.

The key organs that need a good blood supply are: the brain, the eyes, the heart, the kidneys and the feet.

_{Figure: human body with key organs highlighted}

Using insulin can therefore be very effective in promoting glucose uptake and result in good blood glucose control. This can reduce the risk of short and longer term problems as a result of hyperglycaemia.

So let’s find out more about why and how the administration of insulin is helping Carlos and Seema to manage hyperglycaemia.