Insulin Pump Site Changes: A Diabetes Dietitian's Solution for STUBBORN Blood Sugar Levels
Insulin pumps are a choice many with diabetes turn to for their care since they can make blood sugar control much easier!
One of the main reasons why it has been a game changer is that they provide more precise control over insulin dosing. With an insulin pump, you can adjust your insulin delivery based on your body's changing needs throughout the day.
However, insulin pump sites can sometimes fail or become ineffective, resulting in high blood sugars and frustration. So, when should you yank your insulin pump site early?
Here are a few tips when having trouble with ineffective or failed insulin pump sites.
#1. Correcting twice and no change:
Sometimes, you've corrected your blood sugar twice and it's still not coming down, even if you're doing everything else right.
This could be a sign that your insulin pump site is not working effectively, and waiting too long to address the issue could lead to dangerous blood sugar levels and of course, frustration. If you suspect that your insulin pump site is not working properly, then simply you have to change it.
#2. Always be prepared.
It's also a good idea to always have an extra infusion set with you in case you need to switch your pump site, and you can do this by carrying it with you wherever you go.
This can help you avoid extended periods of high or low blood sugar levels due to uncertainty about how much insulin is active.
#3 Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, can’t put the blame on you.
If you’re not sure, it's better to be proactive and replace the site to ensure that the new one is working properly, rather than risk high blood sugar levels, particularly overnight.
It's important to keep in mind that everyone's experience with insulin pump therapy is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people may find that their sites work effectively even after one correction, while others may need to make changes more frequently.
Changing insulin pump sites early can help prevent frustration and potential health risks.
If you're experiencing difficulty in managing your blood sugar levels despite your best efforts, it's important to take action and replace the site with a new one.
Bringing an extra infusion set with you wherever you go can also provide added peace of mind and ensure that you're always prepared.
Remember to always discuss your diabetes management with your healthcare team and to follow their recommendations for managing your insulin pump therapy.
They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve optimal blood sugar control.
If you're looking for extra support with your diabetes management, we are always available to help.
