5 In Type 1 Diabetes/ Type 1 Tuesday

Glucagon

This is an emergency glucagon kit.

I have to say that this is one of the scariest things that I own. What’ so scary about it, you ask? Well, this is a diabetics “epi-pen” if you will. It is something that we have to have on us at all times when we are out (it’s in my purse) in case of an emergency. It’s the most frightening reminder of the danger of the disease.. I pray that I NEVER have to use it, but if there is a need, I am glad to have it.

If Caylin has a seizure, faints or is unresponsive due to a VERY low blood sugar, then we have to pull out this Glucagon and give her a shot of it to bring her sugar back up fast. Glucagon is a hormone that makes the liver release sugar. The needle is very long and scary and it’s just a very intimidating piece of medical equipment. It’s just scary to see it’s bright orange case and know that I COULD have to use it one day.

Some people use the Glucagon in “mini doses” on occasions when their child may be sick with the stomach flu and can’t keep anything down, but they have insulin in their system – which can be VERY dangerous.

I pray that there will never be a time when I need to use this (in a dangerous medical situation), but it’s there if I need it and I should take comfort in that.    

So if you ever see one of these – that’s what it is. :)

  • tara pollard pakosta
    November 20, 2012 at 7:25 am

    so scary!
    I pray you never have to use it either!
    when i was a nanny for a family for almost 5 years, I lived with them,
    the dad had type 1 and many many days I would come home to see him being hooked up
    to the chandelier with an IV bag (his wife was a nurse) and it made me so sad. I also found him
    so many many times so low that I had to give him a coke and sometimes even call 9-1-1. his diabetes was and is still so out of control even with a pump. it’s crazy, the poor guy!
    i am glad you have been able to control your sweet girls very well! good job mama, it’s NOT EASY! my heart goes out to you!
    tara

  • Wendy Goundrey
    November 20, 2012 at 8:00 am

    You are doing such a service to everyone by posting all this information. You are bringing back all the memories from 30 years ago when our son was diagnosed. The first year is the scariest and it becomes easier to incorporate all the new regulations and massive amounts of information after that. Keep up the good work!

    • Kristina
      November 20, 2012 at 11:34 am

      Thank you so much for your sweet note, Wendy. Sending YOU big hugs!! :)

  • gale
    November 22, 2012 at 12:19 am

    Yikes-that is scary looking. Do you have to keep it a certain temperature? My daughter has food allergies and carries an epi pen but the needle is inside the tube and you just jam it into your leg and it pops out. Still scary. We have to be careful not to let it get too warm or too cold. Hugs to you and your family having to deal with this scary disease. I pray you never have to use the injection.

  • Leleinia
    December 30, 2012 at 12:31 am

    This is great, I am learning all about it my step son has a severe peanut allergy