June 6, 2001
Blood Tests and Insulin Injections, Insulin
Question from Katy, Texas, USA:
Within four hours after an insulin injection, my three year old son develops a full, bright red, dime-to-quarter size bump at the site which can last as long as two to three days. Sometimes a bruise is left. At first, it only happened once in a while, but now happens every time. He is on NPH and H. We have tried switching brands, injected at an angle, given up alcohol, and now use the Inject-Ease®. I have tried both the small and large spacer bar in hopes that depth would solve it. Nothing seems to work. Our CDE isn’t concerned because they don’t hurt him, but I am concerned. I am afraid that these reactions will lead to dimpling at injection sites much faster, and they look unsightly. Any suggestions?
Answer:
I wonder if this might not be a local allergic reaction to insulin.Your son’s doctor can contact the manufacturer and get directions for a rapid desensitization to insulin. I’ve had to do it to a couple of kids over the years. It works.
LD
