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 Infected injection sites

If you have an injection site that becomes red and inflamed (hot) several days after the injection, especially if there is a central ‘spot’ in the inflammation or if it has any discharge, it is likely that the injection site has become infected.

1. Seek medical help from your usual care team – you may need some antibiotics or even a minor procedure to drain the infection

2. Do not inject into an inflamed area (and try to avoid the area by at least 2 inches)

3. Make sure you are changing the needle on your injection device regularly

4. Check your sugar levels (see section 'Monitoring when unwell') to ensure they are not rising, you may well need more insulin than usual

5. Ensure you have a good intake of clear fluids (3 litres / 24hours)

6. Do NOT pick at the inflamed area – it will make it worse!