Insulin Pens and Syringes Explained
For many older Juvenile Diabetics, using a conventional syringe and needle is what they have always used and are happy with.
If you are a newly diagnosed diabetic or dislike your syringe, ask your Doctor about an insulin pen. Insulin pens are generally agreed to be much more convenient and easier to use than a syringe. The pen is fitted with an insulin cartridge and has a small dial to allow exact insulin units to be delivered. Some pens even allow for increments of half units to be injected for extra accuracy.
Pens are much easier to keep in your handbag or jacket pocket. Unfortunately, not all insulin types are available in cartridges, so you may be stuck with a syringe. For extra ruggedness and durability, pens are available in metal or with sturdy carry cases.
Changing the Needle
It is important to regularly change your pen needle. A new needle will be more comfortable to inject - what more reason do you need! Here are two examples of needles, the first brand new and one that has been slightly damaged (although it would not be visible to the human eye).
New Needle in Close up
Old Damaged Needle Example
A final option with pens is to have them pre-loaded. A pre-loaded pen is basically a disposable device. It comes with the insulin cartridge already installed and when finished, the pen is discarded. Pre-loaded pens are especially useful for the elderly or other people who are unsure about loading an insulin cartridge or changing the needle on a normal insulin pen.
Of course it comes down to personal preference and what works best for you. For instance if you are happy with your syringe and you have good control, the best advice is not to change.
Recommended Supplier
Diabetic Supplies from DiabetesStore.com
DiabetesStore.Com is a leading online retailer of all types of diabetes-related products at the lowest prices you'll find anywhere.
More Resources
[ www.jdrf.org ]
[ www.childrenwithdiabetes.com ]
[ www.joslin.org ]
[ www.diabetes.org
]
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[ Symptoms ] [ Initial Diagnosis ] [ Risks ] [ Treatments ] [ Injection Sites ] [ Pens and Syringes ] [ Insulin Pumps ] [ Infusion Sets ]
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