The year 2021 marks 100 years since the discovery of insulin. 4.9 million people in the UK are diagnosed with diabetes today. On this #WorldDiabetesDay we want to help raise awareness of the condition, the history of insulin and the role Nurses play in the management of Diabetes.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a medical condition that affects a hormone named insulin and results in patient glucose levels being higher than normal. There are two types of Diabetes; Type 1 & Type 2 – Each of which have different symptoms and ways of managing them.
It can lead to various medical conditions such as nerve & retina damage, dehydration and in more serious cases, kidney disease, stroke or heart attack.
100 Years of Insulin
On 10th November 1921 first experiments of insulin were successful carried out by Sir Frederick G Banting, Charles H Best and JJR Macleod. As one of the greatest medical breakthroughs in history, it has saved millions of lives throughout the world and initiated a century of diabetes discoveries such as: An artificial pancreas, Insulin Pumps, Insulin Pens and the UKs first Diabetic Foot Clinic.
The role Nurses can play in helping to manage Diabetes:
A Diabetes Specialist Nurse (DSN) – A Nurse with specialist training in Diabetes will regularly check blood sugar levels and adjust medication. Their main goal is to help patients adapt diabetes into their life. They are also often the person who will organise other specialists they may need to see.
Signs and Symptoms
Not all individuals will experience the same symptoms for Diabetes but some of the most common signs to look out for are: increased thirst, increased urination, feeling tired and losing weight.
If you require more information on the signs and symptoms of Diabetes, treatment and how to live with the condition ensure to visit www.diabetes.org.uk
If you are interested in learning more about our Nursing roles in this area, please contact us on 028 9059 0077 to discuss opportunities further.
