Although manufacturers recommend storing your insulin in the refrigerator, injecting cold insulin can sometimes make the injection more painful. To avoid this, many providers suggest storing the bottle of insulin you are using at room temperature. Insulin kept at room temperature will last approximately 1 month.

Remember though, if you buy more than one bottle at a time to save money, store the extra bottles in the refrigerator. Then, take out the bottle ahead of time so it is ready for your next injection.

Here are some other tips for storing insulin:

    Do not store your insulin near extreme heat or extreme cold.
    Never store insulin in the freezer, direct sunlight, or in the glove compartment of a car.
    Check the expiration date before using, and don't use any insulin beyond its expiration date.
    Examine the bottle closely to make sure the insulin looks normal before you draw the insulin into the syringe.

If you use regular, check for particles or discoloration of the insulin. If you use NPH or lente, check for "frosting" or crystals in the insulin on the inside of the bottle or for small particles or clumps in the insulin. If you find any of these in your insulin, do not use it, and return the unopened bottle to the pharmacy for an exchange and/or refund.

Source : www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/medication/insulin/insulin-storage-and-syringe-safety.html

The role of insulin in the body

It may be easier to understand the importance of insulin therapy if you understand how insulin normally works in the body and what happens when you have diabetes.

    Regulate sugar in your bloodstream. The main job of insulin is to keep the level of sugar in the bloodstream within a normal range. After you eat, carbohydrates break down into sugar and enter the bloodstream in the form of glucose, a sugar that serves as a primary source of energy. Normally, the pancreas responds by producing insulin, which allows sugar to enter the tissues.
    Storage of excess glucose for energy. After you eat — when insulin levels are high — excess glucose is stored in the liver in the form of glycogen. Between meals — when insulin levels are low — the liver releases glycogen into the bloodstream in the form of sugar. This keeps blood sugar levels within a narrow range.

If your pancreas secretes little or no insulin (type 1 diabetes), or your body doesn't produce enough insulin or has become resistant to insulin's action (type 2 diabetes), the level of sugar in your bloodstream increases because it's unable to enter cells. Left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to complications such as blindness, nerve damage (neuropathy) and kidney damage.

Source :www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-treatment/art-20044084
 

If you have diabetes, traveling requires extra planning. Changes in meal patterns, activity levels, and time zones can affect your blood sugar levels. A little extra effort in advance can make your trip go smoother.

Before Your Trip

    Tell your doctor about your plans. Ask for a letter explaining that you have diabetes and some extra prescriptions. Carry this with you at all times during your travel.
    Ask your doctor about adjusting insulin doses if you're crossing time zones.
    Get twice as many supplies as you think you'll need. If you need immunizations, plan to get them 3 to 4 weeks before your vacation. Be aware that some shots can affect your blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor first.
    Be prepared. Scope out health care centers where you're going.
    Talk to the airline, hotel, or cruise ship about special meals.
    Learn certain phrases in the local language such as "I need help" or "I have diabetes," "Where is the hospital," and "I need sugar."

Source : www.webmd.com/diabetes/traveling-with-diabetes

Here is also a diagram to show you the kinds of food that you may have in your diabetes

Can I use insulin abroad?

Using insulin abroad isn't usually an issue. However, it's useful to know what to do with your insulin to make sure it's in suitable condition for use.

If you're flying, you will require a doctor's letter to take insulin and/or syringes onboard your flight.

    Patients should find out what types and strengths of insulin are available in the area in which they will be travelling, refer to the relevant pharmaceutical company.
    Insulins used in the UK and many other countries are of the strength U-100. In some countries insulin may come as U-40 or U-80 strengths. These insulins are not interchangeable. Should they need to be used, the appropriate syringes are required.
    Insulin should be kept out of direct sunlight and kept cool.
    Insulin should never be allowed to freeze, therefore when travelling by air, insulin should always be carried in the hand luggage.
    Insulin may be absorbed faster in warmer climates. Regular glucose monitoring is important, to allow any adjustments in dose to be made safely.

Source : www.diabetes.co.uk/travel.html

How To Keep Your insuline Cold ?

Insulin Travel Wallet by Frio will keep your insulin cold for 45 hours! This is great for WROL, SHTF, Camping, or hiking! Here are some tips from the DIABETESYOUR about the insulin cooler that you may keep handy while traveling.

If you are diabetic keeping your insulin cool is very important during travel. The insulin has to stay cool, has to stay refrigerated when you are camping or hiking. You can fall into different critical situation and at that time  if you don't have your insulin cooler, your insulin will not be with you resulting in your blood sugar fall. This bag will keep your insulin cool for 45 hours. The temperature inside the bag is around 65 degrees to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.

So Keep Traveling !

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