Insulin Pump for Diabetes

Insulin pump for diabetes is a computerised device, which is small in size and can be worn easily on the belt or put in the pocket.  Diabetes insulin pump has a flexible cannula (small needle) that is inserted under the skin of the abdomen allowing a continuous flow of insulin to be released into the body. This pump can be used continuously for an entire day and the user can change the amount of insulin being delivered by the pump.

Diabetes pump is used to keep the blood sugar in the desired range. Fast-acting insulin is delivered by the insulin pump in two ways:

• A bolus dose that is pumped after a meal or to control high blood glucose level.
• A basal dose that is pumped continuously to deliver insulin required between meals and at night.

Why Use an Insulin Pump for Diabetes?

Some doctors advise using insulin pump because the rate of release from insulin (which is slow) mimics the rate in which pancreas releases insulin. The notion that pump is better in providing controlled blood sugar or daily insulin injections remains debatable. Another additional advantage of the insulin pump is that it frees you from measuring insulin into a syringe.

Precautions While Using Pump

When you are using diabetes insulin pump, ensure to monitor your glucose levels  at least four times a day. Depending on your food intake and exercise program, keep changing the amount of insulin dose.

Insulin Pump Infection

The abdominal areas where cannula is injected are subject to infection. Some diabetics using insulin pumps have often reported redness in that area and a little pain is felt while inserting the needle.  Your doctor should check such occurrences or the infection would grow and worsen. If left untreated, a person can get insulin pump infection in which an abscess develops or insertion area gets swollen and painful. Accumulated pus in the insertion area is an abscess. The area around insertion site becomes red and swollen. To treat pump infection, wash the affected area regularly with an antiseptic liquid or anti bacterial soap. To cure an abscess, you may require incision to drain the pus out and dress it to ensure healing.

Usage of diabetes insulin pump therapy has shown better results in teens and adults with type 1 diabetes. Insulin pump therapy is also considered a good option for diabetic toddlers and kids.  Consulting a doctor will be beneficial before opting for insulin pump.

Read more articles on Diabetes Treatment.