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Thinking about pump

L

Leahh

Member
Messages
5
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
I've been doing a little research on the pump and majority of the reviews are very positive so far.

I've been asked by my nurse if I ever considered it but at the time I was skeptical and didn't like the idea of having something attached to me 24/7. But the idea has grew on me looking at all the pros I've read about, seems worth it.

I'm just a little confused when people say that the pump has made them gain weight. Because when I look at the benefits of the pump it says that one of the benefits is that it delivers insulin more effectively and therefore people often have to cut their total dosage or their ICR improves. If anything, wouldn't this lead to weight loss? Because you're taking less insulin?

Its the only thing im still unsure about. The pump sounds great in all other aspects but I definitely don't want to be gaining any weigh, not that I'm overweight but, you know.
Im trying to improve my insulin sensitivity in general so would it help with that too?

I currently take multiple daily injections and have been for almost 15 years. It's just getting tedious and honestly im getting to the point where I'm kinda over all the shots and actually remembering to take them.

Also is there some sort of guide out there to choosing a pump? Like what ones are the best, multiple features etc. Im from Scotland so it would be Uk based, if that makes any difference. Not sure if there are only certain ones sold here or what :)
 
Hi Leah,
I suspect the only way the weight is gained is by to much button pressing (snacking) Some people do say they snack a lot more just it's so convenient to bolus. Personally I haven't gained weight from using a pump, then I don't snack.
Pumping is a lot of hard work though to start with. Lots of testing sorting basals So if you are faint hearted then give it a miss.
Pump choice is sometimes down to the hospital you are with, so you wont get a choice. All pumps do the same basic thing though. Two pumps have CGM capability, so if you think you want CGM at some point then opt for one of those.
 
I lost weight when I went on the pump. As long as you don't overeat, I can't see why it wound make you put on weight.

You have to be committed to use a pump. I suggest you have a read around here and on other sites on the Internet to see if it's for you. Although you don't have to have injections, you do need to change cannulas and do other 'pump jobs'. Sadly, nothing in diabetes is work-free.

Also, ask your clinic what pumps they have available as some clinics will only provide certain ones.
 
I think small weight gain is often a side effect of gaining better control. If you've previously been running high sugars, that will have lead to weight loss generally (losing weight rapidly is often one of the signs at diagnosis, after all) and getting things back under control can lead to that "bad" weight loss being gained back. Should be smallish impact, though, and obviously only really applies when control has been bad previously.
 
@Leahh, if your wanting to know more about insulin pumps and the process involved in getting one then have a read of the following:

http://www.inputdiabetes.org.uk/alt-insulin-pumps/

As said already an insulin pump won't lead to weight gain and if anything you should see a reduction in your insulin usage compared to MDI, if your DSN has suggested that a pump is a better option for you then you should consider it but be aware that they are hard work (at least in the initial stages of changing over to one) so you have to be committed and determined to make one work, but overall they are a marvellous piece of kit and I for one wouldn't be without mine now.

Just look at the pump options available to you through your clinic and weigh-up the pro's & con's of each, don't forget to ask for the pump DSN's input too.
 
Weight gain is not a necessity!!!

It may occur from feeling that you have the flexibility more now to eat more and not give a **** when your pump regime is sorted out.

However...weight gain is not due to a pump... Only the human aspect can feed more!!! The pump is not actually stiffing food in humans mouths!!!
 
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