Pump impressions and thought.

[thomasb]

So i have been on the pump for about a week. Here are some first-timer thoughts and impressions(minimed 522):

1. I thought it might be a pain to wear all the time, but not so. I clip it to the wait of whatever i am wearing during the day, and my boxers at night. Works super.
2. sleeping is not really a problem for me. I have the 23 inch tubing, and a safety loop with a piece of micropore tape. Never others me much.
3. I react differently to food now then i did with lantus. It takes longer for my sugar to go up after food(and glucose tablets). It is pretty tricky to get used to, one glucose pill(3 grams) used to be enough for me. not so anymore.
4. Overall i lowered my novolog bolus about 1 unit for food.
5. I drop faster when exercising. Took time to get used to too.
6. Overall, the pump is great. no more needles and always having to pack them with me wherever i go. I also got the Onetouch ultraeasy monitor to keep in my jacket, so i am covered.

Yet to do some heavy weight lifting, will do next week. Looking forward to see how that works with the pump.

[Gordonm]

I also have the 522 for about 8 months now. I experienced about the same as you did the first few weeks. I lowered my insulin requirements from MDI. You will learn a lot more as the days go buy and it just gets easier. I have found it so much easier not having to carry around all the supplies. I just punch in the numbers and go eat.

[GrammyByer]

Glad the pump is working for you. I love mine. I am able to maintain much tighter control and have much more freedom about mealtimes and what i eat. To say nothing about how great it is not to be a human pin cushion with the multi daily shots!!!!
I do have a suggestion for you concerning exercize. I have found that when I am going to the gym and I will be doing cardio and weights, I have the best blood readings if i disconnect the pump about 30 minutes before i begin the workout and then connect back up when i am done. This method keeps me from dropping low during the workout. You might consider trying it. Good luck!

[trailrunner]

I have a 522 also. Love it! It's amazing how it just becomes a part of you. :D

[Cyborg]

Glad to hear you are liking the pump.

While weight lifting, an anaerobic exercise, your bg will likely rise...

[kidvid]

Just a couple flippant comments here...

My pump leaves an impression when I curl up on the couch with a good book...the **** thing pokes into my stomach!

I freaked out for the first year I had it every time I snagged the tubing on something, or even pulled real hard on it. Every pumper ought to just grab the tubing and rip the inset out of your body in order to realize the experience isn't that bad...

IMHO

Joe

[thomasb]

ah, yeah i actually had it ripped out the other night during sleep. somehow. still woke up with 5.5 mmol though.
i still like the pump. it is working so good for me. Finally no lows during the nights. aaah...

[w5wjp]

One day I had just put a new set in and as I turned to leave the bathroom, the tubing caught on the knob for the cabinet under the sink. Yup, about $13 down the drain, but it didn't hurt physically.....lol