Be sure to talk to your medical professional before making any treatment or equipment changes.
Proper use of insulin syringes is essential for effective diabetes management. However, even experienced users can fall into bad habits. Here are five of the most common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1: Reusing Syringes. While it may seem convenient or cost-effective, reusing insulin syringes increases the risk of infection and can cause needle dullness, leading to discomfort or bruising. Solution: Use a new, sterile syringe for every injection.
Mistake 2: Not Rotating Injection Sites. Injecting into the same spot repeatedly can lead to lipohypertrophy—lumpy, scarred tissue that interferes with insulin absorption. Solution: Rotate between different areas like the abdomen, thighs, and upper arms.
Mistake 3: Injecting Too Quickly. Injecting insulin too rapidly can cause discomfort and may affect insulin absorption. Solution: Inject slowly and steadily to allow the insulin to disperse properly.
Mistake 4: Skipping Needle Inspection. Damaged or bent needles can harm tissue and deliver inaccurate doses. Solution: Always inspect needles before use. If you see any irregularity, discard the syringe.
Mistake 5: Improper Disposal. Tossing syringes in the trash is dangerous to others and the environment. Solution: Use a proper sharps container and follow local disposal guidelines.
Final Thoughts Avoiding these common mistakes helps ensure safe, effective insulin therapy and contributes to better long-term health outcomes.
