The Pros and Cons -Insulin Pump Therapy.
 

 

The use of Insulin Pump Therapy

Many young and old diabetics use insulin pump therapy. Perhaps these people agree with studies indicating better control of blood glucose with insulin pumps. Besides, there is improvement in lifestyle adjustments and the range of differences in blood sugar levels is reduced. Still, it may not be suitable for everyone.

So, you have to consider the pros and cons before making your decision.

Pros:

  1. With an insulin pump, there is no necessity for insulin injections with a syringe. Instead of a number of injections per day, you only have to push in the plastic needle of the insulin pump once in two or three days.
  2. Since you will be getting a gradual basal rate of insulin throughout the day your blood sugar levels will be well under control.
  3. Since insulin pumps can be programmed for meals and delay of meals, adjusting the release of insulin as desired, it certainly gives better diabetes management.
  4. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar reactions) can be lessened with an insulin pump through its gradual uninterrupted flow of insulin. With injections of a greater amount of insulin in one shot, the risk of low blood sugar reactions is higher. The risk is greater at night when the single heavy dose of insulin can cause hypoglycemia to occur during sleep.( see insulin dosage)

Cons:

  1. Infection can occur if the spot for the insertion of the plastic needle is not changed even though insertion is only necessary once in two or three days..
  2. Your blood glucose levels have to be monitored more often, especially for the initial three month period. Frequent monitoring is necessary to determine if your insulin pump is performing as programmed with both the basal rate, which is a slow and continuous flow, and the bolus, which is the larger amount for meals.
  3. It can be troublesome having a pump attached to you at all times. At times of activity, sun-bathing on the beach or taking a nap with a pump attached can be detestable. Fortunately, pumps can be detached for less than an hour without problems.
  4.  With the insulin pump detached too long from your body and not monitoring blood sugar levels can lead to high blood glucose levels and result in diabetic ketoacidosis.

 

How To Test Your Blood Glucose Level – Video Guide

 

*** Posted By Natasha A.Nada ***