1. Can I do an insulin test at home?
No. Although glucose levels can be monitored at home, insulin tests require specialized instruments and training.
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2. Why does insulin have to be injected?
Insulin must be injected or given via an insulin pump. It cannot be given orally (by mouth) because it breaks down in the stomach.
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3. How is an insulinoma treated?
Insulinomas are insulin-producing tumours but are most often not
malignant. They are usually treated by being located and removed. Once removed, generally they do not return.
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4. What is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance is a decreased ability
of insulin to stimulate transport of glucose into the body’s cells where it is needed for energy production. The pancreas tries to compensate for the cells' lack of glucose by producing more insulin. This results in elevated levels of insulin and
C-peptide in the blood along with normal or elevated glucose levels.
Glucose, insulin, and C-peptide levels may help your doctor diagnose this condition.
Insulin resistance is a warning signal that the body is having problems processing glucose, and is at risk of developing diabetes. Patients with early or moderate insulin resistance often don’t have any symptoms, but if their condition is ignored, it puts them at a much greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperlipidaemia, and/or heart disease several years down the road. (These four conditions make up what is sometimes called the Insulin Resistance Syndrome).
Risk factors for insulin resistance include:
- Obesity, especially abdominal obesity (i.e. round the waist)
- Family history of diabetes
- Gestational diabetes (diabetes when pregnant)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
Treatment of insulin resistance involves changes in diet and lifestyle. Diabetes UK recommends losing excess weight and taking regular amounts exercise to lower blood insulin levels and increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
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