Insulin pumps: Should you buy one? Part 2

Disadvantages of the insulin pump include:

- There is a learning period to use the pump most efficiently. Initially it takes time to obtain the baseline insulin levels. Frequent blood sugars need to be measured to obtain the desired levels of insulin.

- Pump malfunction can occur and one can develop too high or too low sugars.

- Individuals who are not good at maintaining their weight or calories are not good candidates for the insulin pump.

- The site where the plastic tubing enters the skin can get infected. When an infection does occur, one has to stop using the pump.

- Because the pump is a mechanical device, one has to repeatedly check to ensure that the batteries are working and that the tubing is not kinked.

- Insulin pumps are expensive and can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000. Not all insurance companies cover insulin pumps.

Final Point

The use of an insulin pump requires motivation and dedication. For those who want to use the device, the blood sugars must be checked 3-4 times a day. In addition, one has to control the diet and let the device know how many extra calories have been eaten. Individuals who are constantly eating require a lot of insulin. Anyone who needs more than 100-150 units of insulin a day, is not a good candidate for an insulin pump.

The biggest advantage of an insulin pump is that it can maintain glucose levels near normal and help prevent some of the feared complications of diabetes.

Insulin pumps are not for all diabetics. One does need to have training in how to use the pump. Further, blood sugars do have to be checked every 3-4 hours. The insulin pump also costs a lot more than syringes and needles.