Without insulin, the body's cells cannot use or store glucose. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, raising one's blood sugar to an unhealthy level. With the help of modern medical supplies, like a diabetes insulin pump, diabetics are able to lead long, healthy lives.

What's an Insulin Pump?

An insulin pump is a small, battery-powered device that delivers insulin. Using a thin tube and soft, plastic needles, the insulin pump is inserted under the abdomen, thighs or buttocks. A programmable interface allows you to control the amount of insulin you're receiving. Diabetics using syringes and pens have to inject themselves between 2 to 4 times per day. However, with an insulin pump, diabetics can conveniently receive insulin whenever it's needed.

Depending on your need for insulin, a diabetes insulin pump will deliver either basal or bolus insulin. While long-acting basal insulin is used in between meals and overnight, fasting-acting bolus insulin is used to control blood sugar during meals. Unlike bolus insulin, basal insulin is sent to your system 24 hours a day. Your doctor will choose the appropriate insulin dosage for your pump.

Insulin Pump Supplies

For a diabetes insulin pump to function properly, it must have the necessary insulin pump supplies. These include cartridges to hold your insulin, batteries to power your pump's motor and monitor, measuring kits to ensure you're administering the correct insulin dosage and other small insulin pump supplies specific to your device. You can also purchase additional pump supplies online like adjustable weight belts and treated cleaning wipes. It's important to note that Medicare and other insurance providers often allow the necessary insulin pump supplies as part of their standard diabetic coverage.

Insulin Pump Safety

Diabetes insulin pumps are designed to be durable and safe. Insulin pumps are splash proof; however, you may want to disconnect your device before taking a shower or bath. Wearing an insulin pump doesn't mean you can't sleep comfortably. At bedtime, you can place your diabetes insulin pump on the nightstand, under your pillow or even in a pajama pocket.

Since safety is a primary concern, there are many alerts to tell you when batteries need to be changed or if there is something blocking the tube. It's important to note that disconnecting your pump automatically stops the delivery of insulin. Before doing this, you may want to check your blood glucose level to see if disconnecting the pump may harm you.

Is the Insulin Pump Right for You

While convenient for some, using a diabetes insulin pump may not be the right choice for everyone. Your doctor might recommend an insulin pump if you have difficulty controlling your blood sugar, travel frequently or have an ever-changing schedule, play sports or are undergoing physical changes.

The use of insulin, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can effectively manage your diabetes. Talk with your doctor to learn more about a diabetes insulin pump. He or she will select the insulin device that best suits your lifestyle.