Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mike Ratrie on March 7, 2013 at 5:40am

Can you clarify "...HAS to change it out every 3 days..."? The way I read this is you might use any set for more than 3 days.

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Permalink Reply by acidrock23 on March 7, 2013 at 5:16pm

I've used them for 4-5 days when I get an extra glug of insulin in the thing (the Medtronic gradations aren't that precise...) and/ or don't eat as much. It just lasts longer and I go with it. I haven't had very many problems I've attributed to sites over the years but 4-5 days works ok for me.

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Permalink Reply by Korrie on March 7, 2013 at 9:37pm

I have always changed my sets when I run out of insulin in the reservoir, which most often is day 4. I have gone longer like acidrock23 said if I don't hit the mark just right on filling or if I don't bolus as much. I can tell if the site is beginning to "go bad" - basal sugars trend upwards or carb bolus needs more just like S Woodward said. Then I will change out before I have used all up in the reservoir.

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Permalink Reply by LauraS on March 17, 2013 at 8:43pm

Hi,
How long have you been a diabetic? I too have the same issues and have been Type 1 for 51 years and pumping since 1996. My endo suggested that maybe I have scar tissue from all the sites, shots etc and so I have been using sites like my thighs, buttocks, back, to find virgin skin and many times that works better. Also using the sets that go in at a 45degree angle seem to help at times. They will not tell you but it's ok to leave your set in for longer than 3 days as long as you have no problems or infections at the sites, no redness etc so keep a close eye on that. Also what type of insulin do you use? Maybe switching types of insulin may help you, my endo also thought I might have developed antibodies to the type of insulin I was on before and just generally I have issues with y regular insulin, even Apidra not working until about the 3rd or 4th hour after giving it and I have an active insulin time of 5 hours to cover this, no one can tell me why so don't give up, every day is a learning experience for me as well.

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Permalink Reply by Michael on March 17, 2013 at 9:33pm

My two cents worth. First am glad to hear that tubed folks are having the same issuses as the pod folks as the omni pod discussions have touched on the same problems. I for one have found that a two unit bolus before removal works best with an elevated basel for the next two hours . Don't wear a CGM and not interested in trying. Happy with the finger sticks. I use a Cavalon base under the pod to prevent irratation ftom the adheisive. Works well. Best of luck as that seem to have more weight than anything else. Sarah hope you try the pods as they work very well, at least for me.

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Permalink Reply by shoshana27 on March 18, 2013 at 7:10am

when i do a site change & or disconnect from the pump i replace what i missed while off the pump.

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Permalink Reply by LauraS on March 18, 2013 at 2:59pm

many good ideas, I too give more than the recommended amount to fill the cannula and often do a temporary basal rate (higher) for an hour or two right after a change and that also helps to level things off. After all these years,I don't think about my pump hanging on my wasteband anymore and I don't worry if people see it either, that passes in time, the being self conscious of your pump.
I am dealing with insurance issues now, changing from Animas to Minimed and minimed telling me BCBS will only allow 3 boxes of sets per 90 days so I had better not mess up any sites or I will not have any, anyone else having this problem with insurnace not paying for enough supplies? Often I go through 2-4 sties to get a good one and I am worried about not having enough stuff, our healthcare system sure sucks for those of us with chronic diseases. As for the CGM, they tell you you HAVE to use your stomach but you can use your arms or other places, I did when I tried one, just could not use it because I was allergic to the sensor itself.

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Permalink Reply by still_young_at_heart on March 18, 2013 at 3:56pm

Hi Laura - I know BCBS varies by state and plan but I have a BCBS plan. My endo set my prescription as every 2-3 days and I can get an extra box of sets now and then. I think this is a case where your doc has to rewrite the prescription or protest for you. I think its crazy for them to make us live with just in time inventory.

Maurie

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Permalink Reply by LauraS on March 18, 2013 at 7:47pm

Thanks, I see my endo next month and will him to rewrite my script and explain why, appreciate all the info and yes, I wish we ran the insurance agencies, we overpay and still get the shaft

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Permalink Reply by shoshana27 on March 18, 2013 at 5:21pm

what does insurance know about diabetes? do they live with it? NO.......

WE COULD TEACH THEM A COUPLE OF THINGS

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