What are the causes of impaired insulin function?

Generally, the main causes of impaired insulin function include obesity, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and pancreatic inflammation. If abnormal insulin function is detected, it is recommended to visit the endocrinology department at a formal hospital promptly for examination and diagnosis. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Obesity

Long-term excessive energy intake leads to fat accumulation in the body, especially excess abdominal fat, which can trigger insulin resistance, preventing insulin from functioning normally and causing impaired function. Dietary structure should be adjusted to reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods while increasing dietary fiber. Regular exercise such as brisk walking or swimming should also be maintained to manage weight. Under a doctor's guidance, orlistat capsules, liraglutide injections, or metformin hydrochloride tablets may also be used to assist with weight loss and improve insulin resistance.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

Long-standing insulin resistance or gradual decline in pancreatic beta-cell function leads to insufficient insulin secretion or impaired action, resulting in impaired insulin function, accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Strict dietary control is necessary, including eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding overeating. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glimepiride tablets, or insulin injections may be used to regulate blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Regular blood glucose monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans are also essential.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Ovarian dysfunction leading to elevated androgen levels affects insulin signal transmission, causing insulin resistance and consequently impaired insulin function, accompanied by symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, and infrequent menstruation. Weight should be controlled through exercise to reduce fat accumulation, and high-sugar foods should be avoided in the diet. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ethinyl estradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, spironolactone tablets, or metformin hydrochloride tablets may be used to regulate hormone levels, improve insulin resistance, and restore normal insulin function.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates bodily metabolism, increases the rate of insulin breakdown, and affects pancreatic beta-cell function, leading to impaired insulin function, accompanied by palpitations, excessive sweating, and hand tremors. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets may be used to inhibit thyroid hormone synthesis and alleviate symptoms. Once thyroid function returns to normal, insulin function usually improves as well. Regular follow-up testing of thyroid function is also necessary.

5. Pancreatitis

Inflammation caused by bacterial or viral infection or alcohol irritation damages pancreatic beta cells, leading to reduced insulin secretion and impaired insulin function, accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as cefoperazone sodium and sulbactam sodium for injection, somatostatin for injection, or omeprazole enteric-coated capsules may be used to control inflammation and protect pancreatic cells. If inflammation causes severe damage to pancreatic tissue, laparoscopic drainage of pancreatic abscesses may be required to prevent further damage and promote recovery of pancreatic function.

In daily life, maintaining a regular routine and avoiding staying up late are important. Calorie intake should be controlled with a balanced diet, and moderate exercise should be consistently practiced to maintain a healthy weight. Long-term heavy alcohol consumption should be avoided to protect pancreatic function. Regular checks of blood glucose and insulin levels should also be conducted to monitor pancreatic health.