What is an insulin pump?

An insulin pump is a tool used to deliver supplemental insulin to diabetics. People with diabetes either cannot produce insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or cannot produce enough insulin or make proper use of the insulin they produce (Type 2 diabetes).

There are many different ways to receive insulin therapy. Some people perform daily self-injections of insulin, while others rely on an inhaled delivery system. 

An insulin pump delivers minute volumes of insulin throughout the day, increasing the amount after meals. 

How does an insulin pump work?

An insulin pump is a computerized device that has several parts. The pump itself is around the size of a deck of cards and is worn outside the body in a case secured to your belt, pocket, bra, or armband. 

A small tube called a cannula extends from the pump into your body, usually in a layer of fat near your stomach. The pump holds your supplemental insulin and releases it according to the programming details. 

You need to learn how to use your insulin pump, but your provider at Arkangel Endocrinology & Diabetes can guide you and answer any questions that arise. 

What is glucose sensor management?

A glucose monitoring system is a device that measures your glucose levels. It can be an essential part of managing diabetes and represents a powerful improvement in diabetes care. 

Your provider inserts a glucose sensor beneath your skin. The sensor sends data about your glucose levels to an external monitoring device. Some options use a wireless connection to communicate this data.  

Glucose sensor monitoring allows you to track your blood sugar spikes and dips throughout each day. This can help you decide how to plan your insulin supplementation schedule. Before these devices were available, many diabetics relied on finger prick glucose monitoring to learn more about how their body was functioning. 

Because the glucose sensor is implanted directly into your body, it needs to be periodically checked to ensure it has not moved out of position. Management also allows your provider to check for signs of infection at the site. 

How do insulin pumps and glucose sensor management work together?

An insulin pump allows you to get the supplemental insulin you need without having to perform numerous injections each day. Using a glucose monitoring system helps ensure you get the right dose at the right time. 

For this combined approach to work, it’s important to maintain close monitoring of your glucose sensor. Your provider can help you with insulin pumps and glucose sensor management in a warm and welcoming treatment environment.  

If you have additional questions about insulin pumps or glucose sensor management, schedule a visit with the team at Endocrine & Diabetes Plus Clinic to learn more. Online scheduling is one option, but you can also call to find a time that fits your schedule.