If you have Type 1 diabetes, or like some people with Type 2 diabetes, you know how challenging it can be to control your blood sugar levels. The two main ways we currently have are injecting insulin with a needle or pen, or using an insulin pump. Today we're going to talk about this insulin pump, which may be new to many people.
So, what is an Insulin Pump?
Simply put, an insulin pump is a small, computerized device that delivers insulin to your body at a specific rate. About the size of your smartphone, this pump delivers insulin into your body through a very thin tube placed under your skin.
You connect the pump to your body with something called an 'infusion set'. This is a thin tube made of plastic, with a small needle or cannula attached to it. This is usually inserted under the skin in your abdomen, buttocks, and sometimes thighs. This is called the 'infusion site'. Some pumps come with devices that make it easy to attach it to hard-to-reach areas of your body.
How does this little machine work?
Think about how our bodies naturally release insulin. This pump works in a very similar way to that process. It releases insulin in two ways:
1. Basal Insulin: It releases insulin slowly and continuously throughout the day, meaning day and night, to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
2. Bolus: After you eat a meal, an extra dose of insulin is released to control the rise in blood sugar levels caused by that meal.
You can program the pump to deliver the insulin you need for both of these methods. Imagine you've eaten a little more than you normally would. Then you can give a larger bolus dose to match the amount of carbohydrates in that meal. You can also give this bolus dose to control high blood sugar levels at other times.
These pumps only use short-acting and rapid-acting insulin. Because the pump delivers insulin continuously, long-acting insulin is not needed.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an insulin pump?
Like any other, this one has its pros and cons. Let's take a closer look at both.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| There is no need to prick the needle every day. You only need to prick it once every few days when you change the infusion set. | You need to enter information into the pump throughout the day. You also need to change the infusion set every few days. |
| It is more accurate than injections, so you can control your sugar levels better. | You need to check your blood sugar regularly to make sure your pump is working properly. Failure to do so can lead to a life-threatening condition called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) . |
| The chances of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) are reduced. This is a big advantage for someone who often has low blood sugar. | You need to get training to learn how to use it. This may involve seeing your doctor several times or attending a one-day training program. |
| Your A1c level may improve. | The pump and its supplies can be expensive. |
| It's very easy to dose insulin for meals and snacks. | |
| It's easy to schedule insulin for exercise times. | |
| It helps control the dawn phenomenon, which is the rise in blood sugar levels in the early morning. |
Important: Even if you use a pump, you should always have a regular insulin injection with you in case the pump stops working for any reason. If you suspect a condition like DKA, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
Is an insulin pump suitable for everyone?
This is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider these factors before deciding whether a pump is right for you.
- Don't you want to wear a device that lets others know you have diabetes?
- Don't you like the feeling of always having something stuck in your body?
- Do you find it difficult or complicated to operate such a device?
- Are you ready to check your blood sugar levels at least four times a day ?
- Can you make the commitment to manage your insulin dose, carbohydrate intake, and physical activity?
With your answers to these questions, you can imagine how well this fits you.
What types of insulin pumps are currently available?
There are several main types of pumps.
Tethered pumps
This type of pump is connected to the body through a thin tube. You can carry the pump in your pocket, clip it to your belt, or clip it to your clothing. You can view information and change settings on the pump's display screen. The insulin cartridge in these pumps usually lasts for 2-3 days. Some are water-resistant, so you can take them off when bathing or swimming.
Tubeless pumps
There is no tube for this. These are really small, wearable pods. When the pod is applied directly to the skin, it delivers insulin through a fine needle. You can control it with a separate remote controller or a smartphone app. You need to change the pod every 2-3 days. These are completely waterproof, so you don't need to take them off when bathing or swimming.
Patch Pumps
These are a type of tubeless pump. They are called patch pumps because they can be attached to the body. They are very small and are less visible. EOPatch is an example of this type of patch pump.
How to choose the best insulin pump for you?
The best pump will vary from person to person. It depends on your lifestyle, needs, and preferences. Talk to your doctor about these things before making a decision.
- Which one suits your lifestyle? One with a tube or one without a tube?
- How much insulin can be put in the pump? Small children may need small ones, but adults may need larger ones.
- Can very small doses of insulin be given? This is important for people who are hypersensitive to insulin and for young children.
- Can the pump be connected to a blood glucose meter or CGM (continuous glucose meter)?
- Is the pump's software compatible with your phone or laptop?
Your doctor will help you choose the one that is most comfortable and suitable for you, considering all of this.
Take-Home Message
- An insulin pump is a great alternative to daily injections. It delivers insulin in the same way that the body naturally releases insulin.
- Although this has many benefits, such as reduced needle sticks and better control of blood sugar levels, it requires a lot of dedication, training, and constant attention from you.
- There are different types, such as tubeless and tubeless. You need to choose the one that suits you best, based on your lifestyle and needs.
- This is not a "fit and forget" device. You need to check your blood sugar levels regularly to make sure the pump is working properly.
- Ultimately, be sure to talk to your doctor to decide if this is right for you and fits into your diabetes management plan.
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