What happens when a diabetic doesn't take insulin?

When a diabetic doesn't take insulin as prescribed, it can lead to significant health risks. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. In individuals with diabetes, either the body doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the cells don't respond effectively to insulin (Type 2 diabetes). Insulin therapy is a cornerstone of managing diabetes, particularly for those with Type 1 diabetes and some individuals with Type 2 diabetes who require insulin to control their blood sugar levels.The primary role of insulin is to facilitate the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for future use. "zone name","placement name","placement id","code (direct link)" direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_3,22508418,https://balloonsbuild.com/p1xeixxffe?key=39fb251404a4a7da289962358b69a81e direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_2,22495208,https://balloonsbuild.com/h2pwx7amy?key=a6d660f94d793ff2a033399b890e84d5 direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_1,22489612,https://balloonsbuild.com/yaafjkf2?key=4f227fc403ab3939ed8a7d75e1a41c0c Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels, a condition known as hyperglycemia. This can result in a range of symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and weight loss.If left untreated, persistently high blood sugar levels can cause long-term complications such as damage to blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage. In the short term, untreated hyperglycemia can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. DKA occurs when the body starts breaking down fat for energy, leading to the production of acidic ketones. Symptoms of DKA include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity-smelling breath, confusion, and even loss of consciousness."zone name","placement name","placement id","code (direct link)" direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_3,22508418,https://balloonsbuild.com/p1xeixxffe?key=39fb251404a4a7da289962358b69a81e direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_2,22495208,https://balloonsbuild.com/h2pwx7amy?key=a6d660f94d793ff2a033399b890e84d5 direct-link-1685810,DirectLink_1,22489612,https://balloonsbuild.com/yaafjkf2?key=4f227fc403ab3939ed8a7d75e1a41c0c DKA requires immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.It's essential for individuals with diabetes to adhere to their prescribed insulin regimen to maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent complications. This often involves regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, adjusting insulin doses as needed based on factors such as diet, exercise, illness, and stress, and working closely with healthcare providers to optimize diabetes management. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress can complement insulin therapy and improve overall diabetes control.