Type 1 on insulin pump - anybody else?

marina · April 11, 2006, 7:41pm

I just found this website and am new here. I've been Type 1 for 34 years. Diagnosed at age 17. Nobody else in the family has it. After years and years of multiple shots, I was put on the insulin pump a few years ago. It's made quite a difference and really freed me from eating on a strict schedule and waking up at a certain time. Helps when traveling, too. I don't have the extreme low blood sugars that I was having before but still have some highs. That's my own fault because I still don't always eat right. The problem I have now is the 10 lbs. to lose syndrome. Actually, after this winter, it's more like 15. Is there any diet product out there to help diabetics lost weight? On the Slim-Fast idea?

Foggie · April 12, 2006, 2:38pm

Dear marina,
My husband has been on the pump for many years and it has been a real blessing. It makes his diabetes so much easier to control although he still has to adjust (even basil rates) especially in the nicer weather when he is more active. Have you considered or do you do any routine exercise? I have been trying to persuade my hubby to try this and he has been walking for about 10min. a day-soon to be gradually increased. Also, why not take a good look at what you are eating and determine how to cut back or substitute some things for lower calorie options?His biggest sin is peanut butter but it gives him a terrific boost when he is planning higher than ususal activity level. He can handle the calories in the nicer weather when he is more active, but in the winter he has to cut back. I would talk to the doctor first and ask for advice. Sometimes even tweaking your inulin rates can help with this.

Sunday · April 12, 2006, 3:13pm

Hi Marina,
I'm so excited to know about your experience going on the pump after 30+ years of Type 1. I see a number of kids on it (at my doctor's office) but I don't think I've seen an adult with one. I take Lantus (which my endo once referred to as "the poor man's pump" which I thought was pretty funny) . Lantus (which doesn't peak) has made a big difference in my life because I haven't had a severe insulin reaction in over a year. My A1cs could be better though. I think exercise is my downfall. I'm busy -- but that's not the same thing as getting the old heart rate up for 40 minutes/day which is what my doctor prescribes. Since you like to eat (me, too!) maybe exercise is one of the keys for us, eh? Do tell us more about your pump!! What do you think are the pros and the cons? What basal insulin do you use?

marina · April 13, 2006, 12:43pm

In reply to the pros and cons of the pump, I think the only con I have is a purely female one of where to put it! They have a strap that goes around your thigh but I feel it slips down no matter how I adjust it. The one around your waist gives a kind of bulge to your form. There's one that works with your bra somehow but I couldn't figure it out. They have one that clips onto your belt but I very rarely wear a belt because I don't tuck things in. So I cut off the little holder bag that came with the leg strap because the little bag seals with velcro so the pump won't fall out. Then I put it in the front of my bra which means you have to be careful what style bra you buy so there's enough fabric there to hold the pump in. The things we women go through! But the pros definitely outweigh that little con. Oh, and another con but along the same lilne. Because of the insertion site of the pump and the pump itself, I now wear a tankini style bathing suit which hides it very well as opposed to a one-piece that shows the lumps and bumps.

I have two basal settings. I'm on .6 from 4 am to 12 am. Then it switches to .7. Seems to be working. And I definitely agree about the exercise. Always a downfall for me. I'm got to get on the treadmill and start walking. I've paid more attention the last couple of weeks to what I'm eating and have cut back and have lost 3 lbs. in two weeks. Slowly but surely is the key I'm told.

I was on the Lantus before the pump and it worked pretty well for me, too. But the doctor felt I was a prime candidate for the pump and I have a lot less low blood sugars now. Glad the Lantus is working for you. Sorry this was so long. Hope everybody keep in touch with me.