Introduction
Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. It is the principal hormone in blood glucose regulation. Insulin released from the pancreas influences cells in the body to extract glucose from the blood stream, with a net reduction in the blood levels of glucose. Ideally, a return to normal levels of glucose shuts down further insulin release from the pancreas. Insulin, administered as an injection (usually for those suffering from diabetes mellitus), also acts the same way to lower blood glucose. The difference is that the regulation of the amount of insulin is no longer under the control of the pancreas. Quite often, insulin may be given in doses more than the body needs at a particular time. This results in persisting actions of insulin, driving blood glucose levels down to abnormally low levels.
Insulin Overdose
Insulin given over the required amount will lower blood glucose to dangerously low levels, a condition called hypoglycemia. Glucose is burnt as fuel in all cells of the body to produce energy. Some cells, particularly the liver and some muscle cells, are able to store glucose for only a limited time. Most other cells, including the nervous system in general and the brain in particular, do not store any glucose and depend on the blood supply of glucose for normal function. These are the organs mostly affected by low blood glucose.
Non-specific signs of hypoglycemia from insulin overdose include hunger, sudden anxiety with palpitations, sweating and trembling. There are also mood changes (a hungry man is an angry man). As the situation worsens, headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, double or blurred vision, confusion and an inability to finish simple tasks. All these signs should prompt a quick blood glucose check, usually with a glucometer, in anyone receiving insulin. This would confirm a low blood sugar level and prompt remedial measures. If left untreated, actual loss of consciousness, convulsions (in the very young or those so disposed) and even coma can result.
It is dangerous to drive or operate machinery in this state because of the mental changes, which can actually mimic alcoholic intoxication.
What to Do
The possibility of insulin overdose and resultant hypoglycemia is usually discussed with every diabetic receiving Insulin. You are usually encouraged to always have a candy bar or some glucose tablets nearby. You could take any of these with the onset of the symptoms and promptly report to your care provider. Every episode is rigorously evaluated and adjustments made to insulin doses. More serious presentations may require admission to a health facility and intravenous administration of glucose.
