Insulin pump
An insulin pump is a small electronic device that releases the regular insulin your body needs through the day and night - so you don’t need to do insulin injections.
This can help you keep your blood sugar levels in your target range - but you’ll need to have it attached to your body most of the time for it to work properly.
You only need one type of insulin known as fast-acting insulin for your insulin pump. You usually need to set up the pump, in blocks of time, to release small amounts of insulin all the time with the help of your healthcare team who can help you set the insulin rates based on your needs. The insulin release can be tailored to the type of food you eat and based on your blood sugar levels the pump manages the insulin release automatically.
Some patients use an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor that ‘talk to each other’. It does this through a computer program on your phone or inside the pump. This is called a closed-loop system. It is sometimes known as an artificial pancreas.
Types of Insulin Pumps
There are two types of insulin pumps:
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Tethered pump: This is attached to your body by a small tube. The pump itself usually has all the controls on it and can be carried on your belt, in a pocket, or in a body band.
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Patch pump: A patch is attached directly to your body where you’ve chosen to place your cannula. People tend to put them on their legs, arms or stomachs. Patch pumps have no extra tubing, which means the pump sits directly on your skin and it works by using a remote. Unlike a tethered pump, patch pumps are disposable.
Advantages:
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Blood sugar levels more often in your target range. Most people often have fewer highs and lows.
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You won't have to inject as often.
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You can tailor your insulin more easily before, during and after exercise.
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You'll have more flexibility in what, when and how much you eat.
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Better accuracy when you're bringing down high sugar levels.