Final answer:
Temporary insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes may be used to lower blood glucose levels when lifestyle changes and oral medications are not enough. Continuous monitoring with a blood glucose meter is necessary to adjust the insulin dosage and prevent hypoglycemia. Over time, with effective lifestyle modifications, some patients may not require ongoing insulin therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Temporary Insulin Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes
In cases of type 2 diabetes, the primary issue often lies in the body's cells becoming resistant to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. To counteract this, temporary insulin therapy might be prescribed to decrease blood glucose levels, especially when lifestyle changes and oral medications are insufficient. During the insulin therapy, a blood glucose meter is used to monitor the patient's levels, ensuring that insulin is administered when blood glucose starts to rise beyond the normal range. After insulin administration, glucose uptake by cells is facilitated, helping to return blood sugar to acceptable levels. This approach may be used in different circumstances, such as when the patient has a high blood glucose spike after meals or during periods of illness or stress when blood sugar levels can increase dramatically.
For most individuals with type 2 diabetes, a combination of lifestyle changes, including diet and regular exercise, medication, and in some cases, insulin injections, are required to control their blood glucose levels. Lifestyle interventions such as losing weight, increasing physical activity, and consuming a healthful diet are critical. Nevertheless, some individuals may temporarily need insulin injections to regulate their blood sugar effectively. In these situations, monitoring and adjusting insulin dosage in response to blood glucose readings is essential to avoid hypoglycemia, a potential side effect of insulin use. It's also vital to note that patients with type 2 diabetes may move off insulin therapy if their blood glucose levels become manageable with non-insulin treatments and lifestyle modifications.