Pumping no more?

[June91]

I've found a statistic that says only 3% of people (in the US) go back to MDI once they've tried pumping, and out of that approximately half because their insurance won't cover it, financial or other reasons, not out of choice.

So I'd like to know if there's anyone here who has gone off the pump by choice and if so, why?

Btw, I'm hoping to use bits of info like that to become the best pump trainer the world has seen! :star:

[duck]

Jen_SLC and Mark-TN are both pump-traitors, turn-coats, benedict arnolds...

:laugh:

[Funnygrl]

The reasons I typically hear are infusion set problems, not liking being tethered, and risk of DKA.

[June91]

The reasons I typically hear are infusion set problems, not liking being tethered, and risk of DKA.
You see, that's why I ask REAL people. Those are the reasons usually listed as problems in manuals and stuff written by doctors. Apologies if this is something you heard from the above mentioned real people (sounds so ridiculous, I know). :T

[duck]

That's not why the two traitors here quit...

[rzrbks]

My CDE was pushing a pump at me from day one of insulin school

She always says the same thing when we meet:

"What's you last A1c?"

My response is always 5.7 5.8 or 5.9(whatever the last one was)

"You're having a really long honeymoon. You'll be going on the pump soon."

Sorry, I like my MDI. I do not want to be tethered 24/7.

[Funnygrl]

You see, that's why I ask REAL people. Those are the reasons usually listed as problems in manuals and stuff written by doctors. Apologies if this is something you heard from the above mentioned real people (sounds so ridiculous, I know). :T
I know Jen stopped because of infusion set issues. Someone who's blog I read stopped because of the being tethered bit. So those are real people.

[MamaCat]

Recently I ran into a Type 1 friend I hadn't seen in a while. I had heard she was on the pump but got off, so I asked her why. She said that it "was alarming all the time." The kind of pump she had and why its alarm kept going off, I don't know. But she did say that after two years she was back on the pump again, a Minimed, and was happy with it this time.

[EdnaDeel]

the only reason that I would ever get off of the pump would be because of insurance reasons...the tethered part dont bother me...it just reminds me to try to care of myself better if I want to see my boy grow into a man. and yes you do have the occasional set problems but it is by far better than taking 6-8 shots a day...IMHO

[spike]

I've found a statistic that says only 3% of people (in the US) go back to MDI once they've tried pumping, and out of that approximately half because their insurance won't cover it, financial or other reasons, not out of choice.

So I'd like to know if there's anyone here who has gone off the pump by choice and if so, why?

Btw, I'm hoping to use bits of info like that to become the best pump trainer the world has seen! :star:
Well, you can't please ALL the people ALL of the time, as the famous saying goes, so I guess the 3% that stop pumping is actually a very low number when all is considered. I wouldn't stop pumping until they put me in the grave. I had a bunch of set issues crop up all of a sudden, earlier this year that had me complaining to MiniMed that if they couldn't solve my problem, I'd have to switch pump companies after a series of kinked cannulas. They resolved that issue for me nicely by making available a newcomer to the "set" scene: the Sure-T. I didn't learn of them from MM; I found out about them in a forum. when I called MM to inquire, they were more than happy to send a number of samples.

I could see that if someone had repeated problems with either DKA or with failed infusion they would be gunshy. My problems have never lasted long enough to get me into much trouble because I test a lot. several of my failed sets sent me well over 300 in short order.

Being "tethered" is a non-issue for me and my pumping wife.

[Dewey]

the tethered part dont bother me...it just reminds me to try to care of myself better if I want to see my boy grow into a man. and yes you do have the occasional set problems but it is by far better than taking 6-8 shots a day...IMHO
I agree fully. I used to take 4 - 6 shots a day, with little or no control. I'd Never go back to that, and like Spike said, they'd have to put me in the grave (or come up with something a he** of a lot better, and even then I wouldn't) before I give up my pump.

[butterflykisses]

Well, you can't please ALL the people ALL of the time, as the famous saying goes, so I guess the 3% that stop pumping is actually a very low number when all is considered. I wouldn't stop pumping until they put me in the grave. I had a bunch of set issues crop up all of a sudden, earlier this year that had me complaining to MiniMed that if they couldn't solve my problem, I'd have to switch pump companies after a series of kinked cannulas. They resolved that issue for me nicely by making available a newcomer to the "set" scene: the Sure-T. I didn't learn of them from MM; I found out about them in a forum. when I called MM to inquire, they were more than happy to send a number of samples.

I could see that if someone had repeated problems with either DKA or with failed infusion they would be gunshy. My problems have never lasted long enough to get me into much trouble because I test a lot. several of my failed sets sent me well over 300 in short order.

Being "tethered" is a non-issue for me and my pumping wife.
Why is it that when you call minimed and tell them you're having issues with their sets kinking or bending do they not suggest something like the sure t's or bent needles???? I don't get it!!! Never, not one time did I ever hear of any other choices other than the quick sets and the sils. Ticks me off that you have to visit message boards (not that I hate visiting ;) )to get answers! BTW, you were quite helpful with this issue...just lost my way back to my original post. Thanks, to you, and every one else for your help.

[spike]

Why is it that when you call minimed and tell them you're having issues with their sets kinking or bending do they not suggest something like the sure t's or bent needles???? I don't get it!!! Never, not one time did I ever hear of any other choices other than the quick sets and the sils. Ticks me off that you have to visit message boards (not that I hate visiting ;) )to get answers! BTW, you were quite helpful with this issue...just lost my way back to my original post. Thanks, to you, and every one else for your help.

Actually, I don't experience the same thing as you with MM support. they immediately offered me 2 things when I called about QS problems: a free Inserter, and sample sets--the dreaded Silhouettes. Tried one, it hurt like the devil for 3 hours and then I ripped it out. YES, I would have been happier if they'd also suggested the Sure-T's but I think they were out of stock or were just coming to market with them when I had the first conversation with them early this year about a kinked cannula. IF the Sure-T's were available at that time, then of course I wish that they would have mentioned them.

[tcc123]

I have been trying to find cons to the pump too. you see I just got my pump in the mail today and lately have been having second thoughts about pumping (which I am guessing is natural). When I ordered the pump I was just happy I would be done with 4 injections a day, which I have now gotten used to and that I wouldn't have to eat in multiples of 30 or 50 carbs for meals.
Now that I have it the only thing that is worrying me is how people see you differently when you are on the pump. I know this sounds bad. But I feel like other people will think I am actually "sick" because I have something connected to me. Whereas on injections so far my classmates in my major (whom I have almost every class with now) don't even know I am diabetic. Haha they sure will be surprised to see a tube coming out of my pocket here in a few weeks. It is not that I am ashamed in any way to be diabetic. Its just I don't want people constantly reminded of it.
Any advice would be great. And I hope my comments might have been of some use to June91.

[spike]

I have been trying to find cons to the pump too. you see I just got my pump in the mail today and lately have been having second thoughts about pumping (which I am guessing is natural). When I ordered the pump I was just happy I would be done with 4 injections a day, which I have now gotten used to and that I wouldn't have to eat in multiples of 30 or 50 carbs for meals.
Now that I have it the only thing that is worrying me is how people see you differently when you are on the pump. I know this sounds bad. But I feel like other people will think I am actually "sick" because I have something connected to me. Whereas on injections so far my classmates in my major (whom I have almost every class with now) don't even know I am diabetic. Haha they sure will be surprised to see a tube coming out of my pocket here in a few weeks. It is not that I am ashamed in any way to be diabetic. Its just I don't want people constantly reminded of it.
Any advice would be great. And I hope my comments might have been of some use to June91.

I don't know of anyone who sees me "differently" in the 10 years I've been pumping. On the off chance that someone did see my "differently" either I don't care, or they see me as smart enough to take care of myself properly by availing myself of current technology. No matter what, I WIN!!! :)

[dgrilli]

Why would anyone want to Inject Insulin Multiple Times a Day rather that put one inset in every three days? Oh being Tethered Down is a very Shallow Argument.

[butterflykisses]

I think people pick up on your energy...if it's no big deal to you, it won't be to them. Rarely does anyone know I'm using a pump. I wear mine on my waist almost exclusively and most of the time you can't see it. If anything there's a hump that looks like it might be a cell phone or pager. The people who know about the pump are people who are close to me and they know that it is nothing more than an easier way to manage my diabetes. I've also never cared about being tethered to the pump. Now if it weighed 50 lbs and was attached to my foot, I might change my mind.. said MIGHT!

Spike...hasn't the bent needles been available for a while? The way I found out about them was from a brochure sent to me with a copyright on the back for 2004. I have called several times since then and the only thing that was ever mentioned was the sils...and they did send me samples, but OUCH! and i still had problems, although a lot less. The serter was never mentioned, but I have had the serter all along, since first starting the pump. In fact, the customer service has been so bad that I'm seriously considering another pump company for my next pump. One time the guy said "sounds like to me you need to gain some weight". Thanks, that's a lot of help! I can't possibly be the only one with little fat...what about children?

[spike]

Spike...hasn't the bent needles been available for a while? The way I found out about them was from a brochure sent to me with a copyright on the back for 2004. I have called several times since then and the only thing that was ever mentioned was the sils...and they did send me samples, but OUCH!

Bent needles have been around since before 1996. I tried 2 of them and they were not my cup of tea. They both made me very sore in a short time. Back then I used the Soft Sets which, BTW didn't kink up on my the Quick Sets, but I had a difficult time keeping them attached in hot weather. I found the solution to that problem was to use Skin Prep an an IV3000 dressing.

[KrisinNM]

I am a former pumper who chose to go back to MDI. I was on a pump for 5 1/2 years.
Here are my reasons:
1. Insurance snuck a change in their coverage...supplies that were 100% covered are now 50%
2. My husband wants to retire at 62...we will be without medical insurance for a couple years before medicare kicks in.
3. My infusion sites were going bad in less than 2 days causing basal delivery fluctuations.
4. The ability to set basal rates to take care of DP was only helping me 5 days a week because my blood sugar doesn't rise until I get out of bed, weekends I might get up at 6:00, maybe 7:30.
5. I have an on call job that requires me to be outside for 10 to 12 hours a day and the insulin in my pump was going bad in 100 deg. heat. I can put my insulin in my lunch cooler.

So far I am doing the same or better on Levemir and Humalog as on the pump. I miss the features that told me insulin on board, correction factors etc. but only had those for 1 1/2 years and got by 20 years without them so I can do it again.

[mark-TN]

Jen_SLC and Mark-TN are both pump-traitors, turn-coats, benedict arnolds...
:laugh::laugh::laugh:

Now the rest of the story...

I took a pump vacation that turned permanent. I was only on the pump for about 18 months. I wanted to give my infusion sites a break as I was having some variability in my absorption. I don’t have a lot of body fat so my infusion sites were limited to my stomach and upper buttock. I had developed tender (sore) hard spots under the skin that were very disconcerting. So I planned a pump vacation and I figured summer would be a great time as I enjoy being outdoors and I wanted to experience that again with out the pump.

I disconnected in April 2005 and never looked back. The freedom of not being hooked up 24/7 is probably the biggest reason I never gave the pump another go as the hard spots eventually went away. I have the same level of control on MDI as I was able to achieve on the pump. Sure, the pump was more convenient at times but I have no problems with injections (I use syringes not pens) and eating out is about the only time I miss the convenience of the pump. My treatment plan is a big reason for that. I just eat three meals a day with no snacks and no grazing so I was not using most of the conveniences of pump therapy anyway.

Most times being on injections is much more convenient for me- ie.: sex, swimming, showering, going to the bathroom (I hated the pump when I had to use the bathroom), working out, being outside on a hot day (I eventually got a frio but before that on a hot day I always worried about what was happening to the insulin in the pump when- getting in a hot car, playing golf, playing with my son in the yard, at the playground or the water park, riding my bike, playing basketball, boating, doing yard work, working on the cars, washing the cars, walking the dog, cooking on the grill, etc). Expense wise, with insurance, the two methods are comparable so either way costs me about the same out of pocket. Injections don’t require a whole lot of hassle either. I can draw my dose, drop my draws and inject in less than 30 seconds from start to finish. Sure the pump makes bolusing a breeze, but there are still site changes and reservoir fillings and changes to do that take a bit of time every 3 days at a minimum. Injections are painless as well. The needles are so small these days that I rarely even feel them.

All in all injections are just much more appealing to me and of course this is a big YMMV as I am part of just a very small group but I’m very glad that I was able to have the experience with both methods so that I could decide for myself which method was best for me.

Mark

[grace girl]

I've never been on the pump, but I really gave it some very serious consideration this summer, and I've decided against it, so I thought I might throw in my 2 cents worth, if it's of interest.

I don't have insurance, but that wasn't a major issue. From the research I did I don't think the monthly cost would be much different than what I'm paying now. If it was something I truly wanted to do I could find a way to purchase the pump itself.

For me it mostly came down to the thought of being tethered all the time. I feel tethered enough to diabetes with the needles (I'm on mdi) but at least I only deal with them 4 times a day. The thought of having this stuff attached to me 24 hours a day is just more than I can deal with. Diabetes takes up so much of my day, and my thoughts. I think that being attached to a pump would increase that, and I don't really want that. I'm not trying to live my life as if I don't have diabetes, but I don't want my entire existance to revolve around it, either. IMO, a pump would tilt the scales in a direction that I don't want to go.

The only way I would ever seriously consider the pump again would be if I reached the place where I could not maintain good control in any other way. For me it is a last resort.

[spike]

:laugh::laugh::laugh:

Now the rest of the story...

I took a pump vacation that turned permanent. I was only on the pump for about 18 months. I wanted to give my infusion sites a break as I was having some variability in my absorption. I don’t have a lot of body fat so my infusion sites were limited to my stomach and upper buttock. I had developed tender (sore) hard spots under the skin that were very disconcerting. So I planned a pump vacation and I figured summer would be a great time as I enjoy being outdoors and I wanted to experience that again with out the pump.

I disconnected in April 2005 and never looked back. The freedom of not being hooked up 24/7 is probably the biggest reason I never gave the pump another go as the hard spots eventually went away. I have the same level of control on MDI as I was able to achieve on the pump. Sure, the pump was more convenient at times but I have no problems with injections (I use syringes not pens) and eating out is about the only time I miss the convenience of the pump. My treatment plan is a big reason for that. I just eat three meals a day with no snacks and no grazing so I was not using most of the conveniences of pump therapy anyway.

Most times being on injections is much more convenient for me- ie.: sex, swimming, showering, going to the bathroom (I hated the pump when I had to use the bathroom), working out, being outside on a hot day (I eventually got a frio but before that on a hot day I always worried about what was happening to the insulin in the pump when- getting in a hot car, playing golf, playing with my son in the yard, at the playground or the water park, riding my bike, playing basketball, boating, doing yard work, working on the cars, washing the cars, walking the dog, cooking on the grill, etc). Expense wise, with insurance, the two methods are comparable so either way costs me about the same out of pocket. Injections don’t require a whole lot of hassle either. I can draw my dose, drop my draws and inject in less than 30 seconds from start to finish. Sure the pump makes bolusing a breeze, but there are still site changes and reservoir fillings and changes to do that take a bit of time every 3 days at a minimum. Injections are painless as well. The needles are so small these days that I rarely even feel them.

All in all injections are just much more appealing to me and of course this is a big YMMV as I am part of just a very small group but I’m very glad that I was able to have the experience with both methods so that I could decide for myself which method was best for me.

Mark

Funny how all the roadblocks you bring up about pumping have never bothered me, nor my wife who have pumped for 10 years and 9 years, respectively.

No problem for us to be outside, no problem having sex, going to the bathroom, taking a shower, swimming, biking, etc.

Neither of us has had serious site problems and both of us use only the abdominal area.

Her sensitivity to insulin makes it nigh impossible to get the required precision from a syringe or insulin pen.

My DP makes MDI impossible for me to be 1/2 way regulated (tried that **** for 18 years).


Hot cars--no problem. Walking the dog--no problem.

Jet skiing--no problem. Laying around in the heat all day while vacationing--no problem.

Calling 911 periodically while on MDI--BIG PROBLEM. :)

Can I have your pump as a backup??

[June91]

It will take me a while to give some serious thought to all these reasons, but you have some valid reasons out there. Keep them coming.

[rzrbks]

Funny how all the roadblocks you bring up about pumping have never bothered me, nor my wife who have pumped for 10 years and 9 years, respectively.

No problem for us to be outside, no problem having sex, going to the bathroom, taking a shower, swimming, biking, etc.

Neither of us has had serious site problems and both of us use only the abdominal area.

Her sensitivity to insulin makes it nigh impossible to get the required precision from a syringe or insulin pen.

My DP makes MDI impossible for me to be 1/2 way regulated (tried that **** for 18 years).


Hot cars--no problem. Walking the dog--no problem.

Jet skiing--no problem. Laying around in the heat all day while vacationing--no problem.

Calling 911 periodically while on MDI--BIG PROBLEM.


Fortunately, the organization which belives we must all "think, act, and believe the same or 'Shut UP!!!' " isn't completely in charge.

[spike]

It will take me a while to give some serious thought to all these reasons, but you have some valid reasons out there. Keep them coming.
who are you responding to?

[JediSkipdogg]

who are you responding to?

That would be everyone that has replied in this thread since June is the original poster and is looking for info on why people stop pumping since she wants to be a pump trainer and hopefully persuade people to not stop pumping and/or make pumping better. The first post pretty much says that all.

[June91]

That would be everyone that has replied in this thread since June is the original poster and is looking for info on why people stop pumping since she wants to be a pump trainer and hopefully persuade people to not stop pumping and/or make pumping better. The first post pretty much says that all.
Thank you, Jedi.

I'm still waiting for your response (and duck's and some others) to Mark's reasoning. He's presented some excellent arguments - I'll become a low carber on mdi if I don't hear some opposition soon [there is no smiley for tongue in cheek, please someone make one]

[rzrbks]

Was reading another thread and saw this

I've had an almost similar experience. I think you should change your site as soon as you get an irritation.

This is something I never have to worry about on MDI


To properly respond to your question, June91..........when the CDE approached me about a pump, I was initially Very interested-----however, $6,000+ stoped me cold, and when I visited with folks here and compared cost of pump Vs MDI it was no contest.

While I do have good Medical coverage-----I haven't had Rx coverage in 7-8 years-----is becoming more and more common for the types of places for whom I work.

[JediSkipdogg]

Thank you, Jedi.

I'm still waiting for your response (and duck's and some others) to Mark's reasoning. He's presented some excellent arguments - I'll become a low carber on mdi if I don't hear some opposition soon [there is no smiley for tongue in cheek, please someone make one]

You have yet to hear from me because I can't really see myself giving up pumping. I just don't want to do shots and shots in my arm all the time since I wear a uniform to work that isn't convenient to give a shot in the stomach or leg. THe only times I have ever considered giving up pumping were when I was having bad sites day after day. I would change a site at 48 hours instead of 72 and change the next one at like 48 hours and the next one too. Basically changing more often while at the same time having a high during that change since the site prematurely failed. But I worked through those times and haven't given up pumping yet.

[MamaCat]

You know, the injections just never bothered me, especially after I got a pen to use for my Humalog. I just dialed it up and injected right through my clothes. My A1Cs are better, but not so much that I wouldn't consider MDI again for that reason alone. But, I'm taking less than half the amount of insulin than I did on MDI -- a little better control for a LOT less insulin. And very importantly, I have fewer lows, and I can fast if I want.

Some answers to arguments to give up the pump:
1. if working or playing outdoors in the heat, get a cooling wallet for your pump.
2. if participating in a "contact sport," remove the pump for up to an hour. (or do some of you need more time...?)

[notme]

Ok...I will jump in as a person that has done both. I have injected insulin for 14 years and pumped for almost six.

I think the reason I have chosen pumping vs injecting is my personality. I like to think of myself as organized and in control, but actually, I am not. For fourteen years I did really stupid things while injecting. I forgot insulin when I ate, forgot to take insulin with me when I went out (having to go home when people invited us to stay and eat out). You know, stupid stuff. I did all of it. I also really hated stopping what I was doing because I was low and needed to eat. I am a sporatic (eat when your hungry) kind of person. I don't eat by the clock and probably never will. I got embarrassed by lows. Stupid, I know, but I hated to admit to people that I NEEDED food. I had many highs and many lows and only hit the target range as I was passing through. Bottom line, I was awful at diabetes.

Now I am pumping. I still tend to be a bit disorganized, but the pump is a lot more forgiving than shots. (Lantus was hard for me....never could get the ratio or timing right). I have my basal rates set pretty darn good. I can go all day long and never eat a bite of food and be in target range. I "get" the pump. I did not "get" the peaks and valleys of insulin.

My A1c's have gone from the 11's to the mid 6 range. I did not want to be "tethered" 24/7 either. But honestly, that is an excuse that someone who has never worn a pump on uses (no insult intended). I used that excuse myself for two years. Once I started on the pump, I forgot the stupid thing was on. So the 24/7 excuse went out the window. What I didn't forget was to take my insulin when I was out, because I had it with me. It WAS a pain for the first few months when going to the bathroom. I ripped a few sets out, scratched them off with my fingernails when lowering the drawers (sorry for the graphics) and almost dropped it in the toilet a few times when moving it around. Those days are long gone. It is second nature now.

I think the only thing that would ever make me go back to MDI is money. My insurance a few times has had glitches getting supplies and I have been out hundreds of dollars until the insurance company figured it all out. I don't think I could afford the pump if my insurance didn't pay for supplies. I would be devistated!

I fought getting the pump for at least five years. My doctors suggested it and I discounted the idea. My mistake. I don't believe that the pump is for everyone. Some people do just fine on MDI and I don't think they should be forced or riduculed (for lack of a better word) for staying on MDI. If I were more organized and not so forgetful, I may have done better. I am sometimes active and sometimes sedentary. The flexibility is right for me.

I live in California. We get as hot as 110 degrees or more in the summer. I have never had insulin go bad.

I have parasailed, played soccer, gone scuba diving, played softball and hiked with a pump with no problem. I took the pump off to scuba dive.

I think the decision is personal. I do wish everyone could try both before deciding. But, until the cost of a pump isn't so high, we will have to just hope that threads like these might help someone make that BIG decision.

[Cyborg]

I'm still waiting for your response (and duck's and some others) to Mark's reasoning. He's presented some excellent arguments - I'll become a low carber on mdi if I don't hear some opposition soon [there is no smiley for tongue in cheek, please someone make one]

lol... You can become a low carber on the pump too! Remember protein and carbs both contribute to bg.

Personally, the pump has given me more freedom. I don't have to worry about bringing my insulin with me when I go somewhere. Since I wear my pump in my shirt pocket, it never interferes with using the restroom or whatever. I've only been on the pump 6 months, but so far I have not had any problems with the heat and it gets hot here in Florida.

I've done many of the things I've done before the pump while on the pump. The only things I haven't done that I might be concerned about is going in a hot tub and amusement park rides like roller coasters.

So far I've had real good luck with infusion sets and I have not had any site infections. But I do use IV Prep before and after a set change. I was taking up to 7 shots a day in the abdomen while on MDI. I was bruised and sore often. On the pump I have little, itchy, red spots from the infusion sets. Usually they don't get sore and they heal in about a week or so.

The pump gives me a much more powerful way to control my insulin delivery. I can actually do more now since I have the ability to increase or decrease my basal rate. My bg is the lowest it's been since finding out I was diabetic 7 years ago. As with Spike, my Dawn Phenomena is under control, which I which I didn't even know about while on MDI. I also no longer have lows at night, thank Goodness!

I was appalled by the idea of a pump when I first became a diabetic. I was very hesitant to consider a pump as a diabetic. I went in to my endo ready to ask for one when I came to realize that I couldn't control my diabetes on MDI. Sure it was scary, but it truly is pointless and I haven't given up any freedom. If anything I've gained freedom and control. I don't see myself going back to MDI as I think the pump is the next best thing to a working pancreas.

:burnout:

[spike]

You know, the injections just never bothered me, especially after I got a pen to use for my Humalog. I just dialed it up and injected right through my clothes. My A1Cs are better, but not so much that I wouldn't consider MDI again for that reason alone. But, I'm taking less than half the amount of insulin than I did on MDI -- a little better control for a LOT less insulin. And very importantly, I have fewer lows, and I can fast if I want.

Some answers to arguments to give up the pump:
1. if working or playing outdoors in the heat, get a cooling wallet for your pump.
2. if participating in a "contact sport," remove the pump for up to an hour. (or do some of you need more time...?)
another option (unless the user has a 712/715/722)--get a Sport Guard and wear the pump. the sets will be more at risk then the pump!

[jen_slc]

Jen_SLC and Mark-TN are both pump-traitors, turn-coats, benedict arnolds... :hahaha: I seriously needed a good laugh, duck!!!

I was a pumper for about 7 years, 6 of them good. Here's why I am now a pump traitor:


Unbelievable pain
Unpredictable absorption rates
Few site locations
Being tethered

They are all related to each other. I had few areas on my body that I could use for my infusion sets. Legs were out because I couldn't stand the pain. Arms were out because I lived alone during my pumping days. That left my abdomen, a bit of my butt and a bit of my hip area. I did not have enough fat in those areas to put up with the constant pokes and prods there, even with proper rotation and site changing every other day. It became more and more difficult to inject. They would insert ok most of the time, but it got so unbelievably painful that I was scared to change my set every single time. It would take me 30-60 minutes to psych myself up. And then a lot of the time it didn't work properly so I'd have to start over. More pain. When I removed my sets, it was almost always a gusher. I remember a time I removed a set, saw plenty of blood, almost passed out and ended up in a fetal position on the floor because of the pain and relief of getting that "thing" out of my skin.

So those problems led to bad absorption and I lost my control. Even in the good years of pumping, I never got below an A1c of 7.5. And in the bad year, it slipped upward. My mental health suffered too, obviously! All these issues made me resent my pump, and that's when I started hating being tethered to it.

After one of these gusher-crying-fetal position moments, I went to my endo, cried and begged him to let me come off the pump, because I was sure he would suggest I suck it up and deal with it. But it was exactly the opposite - he said, ok, let's get you onto Lantus today. I was so shocked! I didn't even know at the time that these longer duration insulins even existed, I didn't care if they put me back on NPH, I wanted off the pump!!! So I started Lantus and Humalog that day and, like Mark, haven't looked back. That was 3 1/2 years ago.

It may sound kind of ridiculous that I elected to go back to 6-10 shots a day when I had just 1 every 2 days. But with MDI, I have much much more body surface area to use to inject and the needles are so much nicer than the infusion set needles and cannulas (at least the sets back then). I don't mind shooting up if I need to. My body is in much better shape with regard to the sites and lumps and scarring. My absorption is much better and my control is the best it's ever been. My A1c dropped as soon as I came off the pump, I eventually got below 7 and have (mostly) been able to stay at 6.5-6.7, always aiming for a bit lower of course. Oh, and I'm happy!!!!! In no pain!!!!

It sounds like a horror story, and maybe it kind of was, but I'm an anomaly. I hope it doesn't turn you off. I would still recommend a pump to others despite my experience. As long as you are aware that there are those few people it doesn't work out for. I never would have known without trying, and it really was a great option during my college years. But not for me now and I can say with 99% certainty that I will never go back. Just the thought of pushing the buttons on those little contraptions that insert sets for you, that thunck you hear when they insert, ugh, it makes me recoil and shudder.

So there you go. Oh, and my old pediatric diabetic endo whom I saw in my teens, also tried pumping and had to quit for similar reasons. I just didn't find that out until years later when my mom was trying to tell me it was ok if I wanted to stop pumping! :D

[spike]

:hahaha: I seriously needed a good laugh, duck!!!

I was a pumper for about 7 years, 6 of them good. Here's why I am now a pump traitor:


Unbelievable pain
Unpredictable absorption rates
Few site locations
Being tethered

They are all related to each other. I had few areas on my body that I could use for my infusion sets. Legs were out because I couldn't stand the pain. Arms were out because I lived alone during my pumping days. That left my abdomen, a bit of my butt and a bit of my hip area. I did not have enough fat in those areas to put up with the constant pokes and prods there, even with proper rotation and site changing every other day. It became more and more difficult to inject. They would insert ok most of the time, but it got so unbelievably painful that I was scared to change my set every single time. It would take me 30-60 minutes to psych myself up. And then a lot of the time it didn't work properly so I'd have to start over. More pain. When I removed my sets, it was almost always a gusher. I remember a time I removed a set, saw plenty of blood, almost passed out and ended up in a fetal position on the floor because of the pain and relief of getting that "thing" out of my skin.

So those problems led to bad absorption and I lost my control. Even in the good years of pumping, I never got below an A1c of 7.5. And in the bad year, it slipped upward. My mental health suffered too, obviously! All these issues made me resent my pump, and that's when I started hating being tethered to it.

After one of these gusher-crying-fetal position moments, I went to my endo, cried and begged him to let me come off the pump, because I was sure he would suggest I suck it up and deal with it. But it was exactly the opposite - he said, ok, let's get you onto Lantus today. I was so shocked! I didn't even know at the time that these longer duration insulins even existed, I didn't care if they put me back on NPH, I wanted off the pump!!! So I started Lantus and Humalog that day and, like Mark, haven't looked back. That was 3 1/2 years ago.

It may sound kind of ridiculous that I elected to go back to 6-10 shots a day when I had just 1 every 2 days. But with MDI, I have much much more body surface area to use to inject and the needles are so much nicer than the infusion set needles and cannulas (at least the sets back then). I don't mind shooting up if I need to. My body is in much better shape with regard to the sites and lumps and scarring. My absorption is much better and my control is the best it's ever been. My A1c dropped as soon as I came off the pump, I eventually got below 7 and have (mostly) been able to stay at 6.5-6.7, always aiming for a bit lower of course. Oh, and I'm happy!!!!! In no pain!!!!

It sounds like a horror story, and maybe it kind of was, but I'm an anomaly. I hope it doesn't turn you off. I would still recommend a pump to others despite my experience. As long as you are aware that there are those few people it doesn't work out for. I never would have known without trying, and it really was a great option during my college years. But not for me now and I can say with 99% certainty that I will never go back. Just the thought of pushing the buttons on those little contraptions that insert sets for you, that thunck you hear when they insert, ugh, it makes me recoil and shudder.

So there you go. Oh, and my old pediatric diabetic endo whom I saw in my teens, also tried pumping and had to quit for similar reasons. I just didn't find that out until years later when my mom was trying to tell me it was ok if I wanted to stop pumping! :D


All I can say to your experience is that it's a shame and quite amazing that you had so much trouble. If I experienced your level of problems, I doubt I'd be the huge proponent for pumping that I am.

[duck]

Nothing like quoting 8 paragraphs to add a two-sentence comment...

[duck]

I'm still waiting for your response (and duck's and some others) to Mark's reasoning. He's presented some excellent arguments - I'll become a low carber on mdi if I don't hear some opposition soon [there is no smiley for tongue in cheek, please someone make one]

Sorry, I was waiting on the other turncoat to show up as well...Plus, now I know KrisNM is a traitor as well. :hahaha: Just kidding, we all have to do what is right for us and our treatments.

I have not had absorption issues (knock on wood). I also have not had many issues with bad sites, etc. (knock knock knock) I did have a few bad shots back when I was on MDI, so that was actually a concern of mine.

I agree with Mark about this ****ed thing getting a little weird for say...sex. I've been pumping longer than I have been married, and it is still a little weird to me to disconnect. But that's just me, I guess I was never a rip-all-your-clothes-off-and-go-at-it-like-rock-stars kinda lover anyway, so I dunno? And yeah, his point about going to the bathroom resonated with me. With my 508 and its available 42 inch tubing, there was no second thought. With my Cozmore and its longest 31 inch tubing, it can become a bit acrobatic getting everything arranged at times.

Never been a problem for showering. I need to get nekkid anyway.

Never been a problem in the heat. I used to plan to go out in the heat toward the last day of a reservoir just in case the insulin got cooked, but nowadays I will go out in 90+ degree heat after changing a set and on the third day my sugars are still good.

Some cons for me: Lately, my almost-3-year old son seems to know where my insertion set is and he always manages to hit it, step on it, kick it, punch it, stomp it, beat it, yada yada yada. My tubing management seems harder for me with the Cozmore but that's because I use this pump also as my glucometer, so I have to unravel a lot of the tubing to do so (tucking it back in at work is not as convenient as tucking it back in at home, etc). And I swear this pump grows to the size of a brick when I try to sleep. With my 508, I could literally lie on top of the pump comfortably. With the Cozmore, I dunno but its shape or something just seems to have a way of making me sleep fitfully.

Being able to bolus and not have anyone around me know any better...priceless.

[parrotletzoo]

I'm off the pump, but I had an islet transplant so I hope I dont count as a traitor. lol I'd still be on it otherwise. I loved my pump. I miss feeling it jab me in the side when I roll over in my sleep. lol

[spike]

I'm off the pump, but I had an islet transplant so I hope I dont count as a traitor. lol I'd still be on it otherwise. I loved my pump. I miss feeling it jab me in the side when I roll over in my sleep. lol

How long do the islets work? They ARE temporary, aren't they?

[am1977]

I've gone on a few pump "vacations" in the past...usually due to frustration with delivery or the such :rolleyes:... BUT I've always returned to it. I think most probably know how much I detest injections :nurse: and it ended up driving me crazy having to run to the restroom to inject every time I wanted to eat something. Plus, I still am a big wimp when it comes to having to inject myself :afraid:. I hate needles :thumpdown. SO... I've been back pumping now for awhile- And I probably wouldn't go back to shots again (unless I had no other choice).