Pump Questions

Mkay0626 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 04:16 PM

I have some questions..
I have been using a pump for 3 years and i cant help but feel tired of having the scars that are left by my sites. It bothers me alot. Is there anyway that i can get rid of the scars. Also can i put my site in my inner thigh cause i would try but im afraid cause i dont know if it will work.

Subby · #2 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 04:37 PM

Hi, I don't know about removing scars that have been left.

About what causes them - have you found that one set makes worse scars than others? Do you leave sets in for more than 3 days? I find that certain set types, and leaving them in, increases the chances of trouble. With other sets, not left in, it's much more minimal and likely to go away. The key for me is making sure my set is not irritated as much as possible.

As for the inner thigh - you can only try, I guess. I had no luck with inner or outer thigh, but some success on the top of the thigh, about 5 cm/2 inches down from the bend of the waist.

poodlebone · #3 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 04:41 PM

A lot of people use the inner thigh for infusion sets. Never hurts to try! If by scars you mean the little red pump bumps after removing a set, they don't really bother me. They do take awhile to fade but they eventually go away. Maybe try putting a tiny bit of Neosporin on the site whenever you remove a set.

Mkay0626 · #4 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 05:17 PM

Well i tried inserting it on the top of my thigh once but it hurt REALLY bad so im not sure if its just that spot or if it went into the muscle

I havent tried any new sites cause i am currently not going to the endocrinologist any more because i am simply tired of being harrased.

Subby · #5 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 05:23 PM

If you don't get along with your endo or find they whip you rather than work with you, it might be time for a change, eh?

With the thigh/new site, two thoughts - first is try a short version of your set if you are not doing so, the other is the pinch test, just have a really good feel and pinch with thimb/forefinger to try and assess if there is enough fat there before it hits muscle. It's not scientific but if you can pinch up a nice area of flesh without hitting taut muscle, chances are very low, that's what I've found for my body.

Mkay0626 · #6 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 05:25 PM

Thanks...
I really need a good endo.. they just keep harrasing me and im tired of it... i mean now that im 18 it wont matter because ill have to find another but i just feel thats why most juvenile diabetics have a hard time with it... I feel like you shouldnt dread going to your appts.

Subby · #7 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 05:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mkay0626

I feel like you shouldnt dread going to your appts.

Never were truer words typed...

Mkay0626 · #8 (**permalink**) 06-16-2009, 05:39 PM

The endos think there doing good but their really not because i know im not the only that doesnt go anymore i also have a 15 year old friend who has stopped.. and she is in worse condition than i am...

kgm0612 · #9 (**permalink**) 06-17-2009, 07:04 AM

Just curious as to what infusion sets you're using? My brother uses the Silhouettes and his abdomen area is loaded with scars. I use 6mm Quick-Sets, have been pumping for 3.5 years, and have no scars at all.

Try using your hip/butt area. I find this area to be very comfortable and I have good absorbtion.

Karen

DCaplinger · #10 (**permalink**) 06-17-2009, 07:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mkay0626

I feel like you shouldnt dread going to your appts.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Subby

Never were truer words typed...

I couldn't agree more with Subby. I absolutely love my Endo. He listens to what I have to say, makes suggestions, and then lets me decide how to follow-up with my treatment plan.

You need an Endo that understands they are only a part of your treatment team. YOU are in charge of that team... not a doctor. The doc is just there to give advice and to give you the medical tools necessary.

The sooner you take a stand and take charge of your treatment, the sooner people will stop trying to run roughshot over you. Remember, if you doctor is doing things that are unethical or illegal, there is recourse for that as well. Either way, get off your backside and find a new one if you aren't happy. To continue visiting any doctor you don't get along with isn't victimization... because you willingly continue to go!

Regards,

D

MJM · #11 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 06:21 AM

Mkay,the most important thing for you is to have an endo who will help you, work with you, and not harass you. Leave the harassing endo immediately and find another who will work with you. It's also important for you to have good blood sugars, as otherwise your quality of life for the future will be affected. It's up to you to get the good blood sugars and no one else, so put the effort in and you will be thankful you did in the future. Otherwise every organ in your body will be affected. Also having good blood sugars will mean you will feel better and enjoy life more. Get your young friend to join with you and improve life for both of you. You seem to be heading in the right direction, so continue in that vein and good luck for the future.

MJM · #12 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 06:27 AM

Mkay, I use my inner thighs with great effect, so try them, and also lower back is another area you could use.