My First Insulin Pump Holiday *Final Thoughts* (Part 4) | She's Diabetic

[@davidbishay4115]

Thank you very much Andrea.

[@ShesDiabetic]

You're so very welcome!

[@s.malicoat6594]

Great videos thank you for helping us understand and talk with a friend about going on a pump.

[@kartikyadav5185]

Thank you so much Andrea for sharing your honest opinion. Your this video has really helped me and also pushed me to take a break. Thanks for such video keeping posting. Lots of love to you 😊❤️

[@ShesDiabetic]

Oh thank YOU so much for watching and saying these extremely nice words!!! I'm glad you made the decision to a break - sometimes it's just all we need - a little break to reset and reinvigorate! And just plain old mix it up! I hope it does all this and more for you!! 💙💙💙

[@reneegrainger-rousseau941]

Really enjoy your upbeat spirit and your approach to diabetes. I was diagnosed about 4 years ago, if I may ask what insulin where you on during your pump holiday? I'm pretty sure I might not be on the right insulin therepy from what I have been watching and reading. Currently on a premix penflex and proving difficult to control my highs and sharp drops... keep up the good spirits and smiles..thx..xx

[@ShesDiabetic]

Thank you so so much Renee. I was on Lantus for long acting and Novorapid for short acting. I'm not 100% sure but I think the mixes have just that - a mix of the two. But again, I'm not sure. Maybe ask your doctor about the different varieties and see if you can't get better control through altering your insulin types. I hope this helps you!!! ❤️

[@reneegrainger-rousseau941]

@@ShesDiabetic Hey Girl,happy Monday to you.. Well,happy to report I have seen a new Doc and I seem to be making some progress, he has started me on the basel-bolus treatment, using tresiba and nova rapid, so far so good. I started last week and my readings have been ahhhmazing,especially my morning readings, before I was waking up to 16mmol sometime 25mmol.. yikes!! But since the new treatment mornings have been around 5 and 6.Joy!!!. Insulin pumps, dexcoms..ect are still a thing of the future where I live so it's all flex pens and finger prickes(third world problems..haha)..but I don't mind as long as I can keep those levels in range, girl is happy!! Thanks again for the uplifting content.. sending you good and positive vibes..xx

[@eastonguy62]

Hi Andrea. I know you made this video a couple of years ago but it’s relevant to me today because I’m considering a pump holiday. I thought it would be nice particularly for the summer to go back to MDI. Question for you. Have you tried Tresiba? It’s supposed to trigger 50% fewer lows than Lantus.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Oh this is the perfect time to take an insulin pump holiday! Actually, anytime you need an insulin pump holiday is the perfect time to take an insulin pump holiday!😂 I haven't had any experience with Tresiba, unfortunately, I'm sorry to report - so I can't give you any guidance there - but maybe some other commenters/subscribers can? Can anyone help the wonderful Denis here? 🙏🏻

[@eastonguy62]

@@ShesDiabetic wow! You are super sweet. My endocrinologist gave me a couple of samples of Tresiba. So I’m going to try it for my pump break. I hope I like it. If you’d like, I can let you know about my experience. I’m currently using the Tandem T slim pump which is great. Just looking forward to some summer days that are infusion site free.

[@brucepatrick2380]

As I have mentioned before I heaven a diabetic for 22 years. For 21 of those years I have been using insulin in pens. Fortunately I don't suffer more than occasional bruising. However I have now been using the Libre sensor for around 3 months. I love it. Because I feel I am now in a lot more control of my diabetes. I don't think I will get a pump as it is just to cost prohibitive in Australia. The pumps as far as I can work out are only subsidized for type 1 under 18. For me a pump would cost in the $1000's to purchase. Which is a shame. But us what it is.. great insights all the same

[@seamusmac777]

NEVER allow yourself to feel guilty about doing what's right for your health at any given time. If the NHS is anything like Medicaid over here in the states, they are very just-in-time when it comes to refills, so look at opportunities like this as a chance to build a small supply buffer, which as a type one diabetic can help as I'm sure you know

[@TemporaryBS09]

Have you ever considered the Freestyle wireless omnipod insulin pump?

[@ShesDiabetic]

Honestly I would love love LOVE to use the omnipod but I'm on the NHS and can't get covered for it. I'm trying for work reasons, but right now it's just not an option for me, sadly. :(

[@deanplayford]

Hi andrea, love your outlook. I been on pump for 6 months and cgm for couple of years, and planning long weekend away. In non seedy way I just want to be naked with nothing attached or hanging off me, or alarms going. I felt before all this tech just inconvenience of doing injection and finger prick, but now its constant reminder im sick (if you know what I mean) In your opinion what's your thoughts on pump holiday for short time?

[@Nerdabetic]

I am seriously considering a pump holiday after this video 😏😆😊

[@ShesDiabetic]

Nerdabetic I would say do it if you want to! The idea of doing it was by far scarier than actually doing it! And with the G6 - you’re covered! 😉😍😋

[@bruceslade3517]

I've been on a medtronic coming up on four years now. I have a good friend (Floyd) that continues on the pens. We've talked and talked. However he still stays with the pens. This video got me thinking a bit while watching it. I truly believe thatthe majority of pump users give a lot of thought thinking of going back to pens every now and then. I have two issues regarding my pump other than the cost of course. The first is that I have issues with "dead" spots and end up going through more infusion sets because of that. The second is that there is a waste factor of going through more insulin using a pump than the pens. So in talking with Floyd (whose been injecting for over 20 years) I learned that he has dead spots too. And a couple good female friends also have issues with dead spots and their pumps. So I've had to resort to purchasing spare infusion sets just because.... :-) And the second issue about cost of insulin and the unused portion every three days is really problematic. If I fill the reservoir, then I normally have left over insulin, if I don't fill it and say only fill it 2/3rd's of the way then I am really cutting it close and will run out. I'ts hard to calculate a fixed amount unless one is on a really regimented schedule and diet, and even then the quirks of the body can alter that quite often. So the wasted insulin is really my #1 issue about a pump. At the same time, my #1 problem with night time and long acting on the pen is pretty unsettling to me as my diet fluctuates which makes the evening shot of slow acting sort of a roulette game. Well with the pump over time I have worked out where my blood sugar is at normal bedtime, in combination of what my pump night time hourly basal amount and I normally end up where I need to be in the morning. So while I have those two issues with the pump, it has been "the" thing that has brought stability to my world. I also enjoy that I don't have to carry a bag around with my "stuff" as it's in the pump. If I need insulin, it's right there. Like you, yes the three day dance get's old, but now to me it's just in the same category as brushing my teeth. I enjoy watching your videos, and some others too. I think the main thing about them is that it helps me to stay in the frame of mind that I need to be in to manage my issues more closely. So thank you for your time, effort, and willingness to share your issues with the rest of us. There's just so much that while all well intentioned they may be, non-diabetics just can't "get" or understand and that's where fellow diabetics thoughts and comments come in so handy. :-) So anyway I'm just continuing with the pump. :-)

[@ShesDiabetic]

Hi Bruce!! Thank you so so much for your comment - I really so enjoyed reading what you wrote above and it got me thinking about my own experience in even more depth. I know what you mean regarding both dead spots and cost woes! The dead spots drive me crazy - and the varied absorption rates around different areas of my body is quite bothersome as well to me! And cost...oh yes...I hear you on this. I am very lucky to be on the NHS here in the UK, and therefore my prescriptions are subsidised, however, whenever I change my pump out I feel so guilty seeing all the life saving liquid at the end of the vial...I really hope some redesign can take place so that this is not the case, as it's extremely wasteful and costly to the user - which is unacceptable!! Very interesting about your friend and his pens, I find that I like to occasionally switch back to the pens off and on so as to keep my options 'open' and not get too bogged down with the constant presence of an insulin pump. It's different for everyone I'm sure - just most important to find what works for you! I'm so pleased to hear you feel so strongly about the difference the pump has made in your diabetes control - this is wonderful. Thanks again for commenting and for all your nice words about my channel - I truly appreciate it more than you know! :-)

[@wan2852]

A Low carb diet will halve your insulin use and cut way back on highs and lows. Most diabetics take too much insulin resulting in being on a rollercoaster. Blame the ADA for promoting carbs.

[@dvdv7777]

Regarding waste: Don't bother. Overall, T1D is a rare disease. This means that even though the amount of waste _you_ produce may seem large, the sum total is a tiny tiny amount compared to the overall amount of waste produced by the general population every day. And, unlike most of the waste produced by the average person, there are good reasons for it in the case of a T1. By that I mean that the waste from infusion sets, pen needles, sensors, test strips etc. keeps T1s alive, while the waste from, say, a morning coffee cup existed solely so you can be a little bit more awake.

[@wan2852]

Insulin pump users eventually face the dilemma of lipohypertrophic (LH) tissue from infusion sites. Depending on site rotation, it can take 2-5 years to begin causing a variance in insulin absorption and, hence, glucose control. The problem is we all run out of convenient infusion sites and LH is inevitable. All of which explains those highs and lows that we can’t account for. Left to ponder is whether taking a pump vacation will heal LH sites and restore insulin absorption to normal levels. But make no mistake: that LH Belly detracts from an insulin pump’s efficacy.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Hi WAN! Thank you so much for this information - it's really helpful! Actually as luck would have it I didn't know about LH until about 2 weeks ago when a friend flagged this issue to me and her experience of developing it on leg sites. I can't say that I've experienced an LH so far, however, I do have variances in absorption depending on the area and therefore may have it and I don't even realise it! Very interesting and helpful - thank you so much for bringing this to the community here!!! :-)

[@wan2852]

Also know that yet ANOTHER variable long-term diabetics invariable face in controlling their blood sugar (like they need another...!) is gastroparesis. It is particularly irksome in that it is hit and miss--some days digestion is fine, other days delayed--producing unexplained highs and lows. We should all get medals.

[@-1lovethesea]

Tresiba insulin is better than basal insulin from the pump. I have never seen a very low reading since using Tresiba.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Interesting! Thanks for sharing!!

[@derrymcdermott8143]

Sorry quick one, so you would you pick using tresiba in pens over a pump ?

[@dvdv7777]

This is only true if your basal profile is rather flat, which isn't common, and mostly found in old age, people who do shift work, and people who have problems with their cortisol levels. Otherwise, you'll have increased insulin needs in the morning and a little bit also in the evening (dawn and dusk phenomena). This is physiologically true for most people, diabetic or no (some exceptions listed above). Tresiba is one of the best basals available, true, but its flat profile does not cover these morning & evening bumps. A pump with a correctly configured basal is unbeatable if you have normal physiological basal needs. Unfortunately, most pump users got crappy basal profiles configured in their pumps, negating one of the biggest pros of a pump.

[@-1lovethesea]

Guys there is no needs for glucose tablets. You can buy candies from the supermarket but just read the ingredients. It should be made of glucose syrup with some flavors and colors only, no milk, no fats and no gelatin. Very cheap and portable and delicious in case of hypo.

[@ShesDiabetic]

So true! Glucose tablets are just a way, definitely not the only way! I just find them most convenient for me a my lifestyle - but that’s totally a personal thing! Totally not the only way. Thank you for this reminder and comment Girl 33!

[@bruceslade3517]

In listening to this again, you mentioned that you had your Libre... So is that what you are using now for your cgm when you aren't "testing" different models, or is it the dexcom?

[@ShesDiabetic]

When I filmed this vid I was on the Libre, but I'm now on the Dexcom G6 System! : )

[@pokiebaron1]

That was a great series!! You've mentioned you often travel due to work. Have you noticed the pump is easier to use, than pens, when traveling through time zones? Also, when you dial up a dose on your pump, does it give the full dose all at once, like a pen, or does it kind of dish it out gradually? Sorry for my lack of pump knowledge. Thanks for all the great videos!! :-)

[@ShesDiabetic]

All great questions!! I do absolutely find that the pump is easier to travel with because you can alter the basal rate. I tend to increase my basal rate when I arrive somewhere (after a 6+ hour flight) because the lack of sleep really creates insulin resistance within me. Every pump is a little different, but when I dial up my dose on my pump you can choose to deliver it all at once or over a longer period of time. For example you can dial up 5 units and give 2.5 up front and then the other 2.5 can be delivered over a time frame of your choosing (like 3 hours or something like that). This is a particularly useful feature for when you’re eating high fat meals that will delay the release of the carbohydrate hit (like pizza 🍕)! Hope this helps! And thank you!! :)

[@pokiebaron1]

@@ShesDiabetic Hi Andrea, That is a great, and convienant feature, for things like pizza; which I eat a lot of. :-) Currently, I do manually, as you suggest when eating pizza; a dose up front, and then a smaller dose 2-4 hours later, to catch those slow absorbing carbs. Luckily, I found a great pizza shop, that has a pretty good crust to cheese ratio, so it's somewhat easier to dose for. No deep dish crust pizzas for me!!! lol. Speaking of pizza, it's time for lunch, so guess where I'm headed. :-) Yes, your reply was very helpful Andrea, as they always are!! Thanks!! :-) PS, I've also started to do, as you were planning to do; which is correct lows with sugar pills, rather than smacks alone. I find I get a faster rise back to normal numbers, and the pills are easier to account for, whereas snacks are a bit harder to account for, often causing me to over correct. Thanks for that tip too!! :-)

[@Carol_Pearson]

I think if I were to do a pump vacation, I would probably wait until the year 2020, that way, I get a full year plus use so I can determine the best time of year to do it. :) I would be a bit nervous about lows, though. Even though I've been T1D for 30 plus years, I'm still incredibly sensitive to insulin, and since I have "full unit" pens, bolusing for carbs and corrections is a bit trickier. For example, if I'm a tiny bit over my target, should I take a unit, or wait until I'm high enough to need a full unit, etc. (In the past, I did a correction regardless of how much over target I was, but then I'd go low...)

[@ShesDiabetic]

Hi Carol!! (I'm so sorry if this is posting twice because I wrote out a response but then I believe KZbin crashed and deleted my comment - so take two!!) It's great to hear from you! :-) I totally hear you on the nerves around lows, and what you described regarding your full unit pen, and when do dose said full unit - completely struck a chord with me - I had the exact same thing when I was on pens. Even on the half unit, it was still a consideration, for sure! 2020 isn't too far away, and I think you're reasoning for waiting is excellent - so something to look forward to! Gosh - I can't believe I just wrote 2020 isn't that far away - isn't that wild!?! Just a side note - ha! Wishing you a wonderful, happy, healthy day and thanks again for your watching and interaction in the comments - you're awesome!!!

[@Carol_Pearson]

@@ShesDiabetic thanks for replying! I'm starting to post more diabetic videos (I also do some gardening and canning type videos, but wanted to branch out), so have been watching more diabetic KZbinrs for motivation. Your channel is great! Love your energy.

[@herrjohnny]

Hi! I have been using pens since I was diagnosed 17 years ago and every once in a while I think of getting an insulin pump. However, if having a sensor is already challenging sometimes (hitting the sensor, scratching, showering) I cannot even imagine what life would be like with an insulin pump... Very useful videos though! Thanks a lot! :)

[@ShesDiabetic]

Hi Qr! Thanks for your comment! Yep - I hear you with regards to the hitting/scratching/showering aspect of a pump. I've done all of the above at one point or another. But at the same time, it's sort of become a new normal for me, so my awareness of the site is more engrained the longer I live with the pump, and therefore these accidents happen far less now. Whatever works best for you - that's what I think you should go for! You are the best judge, I think! :)

[@wan2852]

A low carb diet will cut your insulin requirements in half leaving you much less susceptible to lows and much more controllable (and dropping your HA1C to normal/healthier--levels). Also, in time, pump insertion sites absorb insullin unpredictably and the fatty tissue becomes pronounced. Lastly, when on the needle, do not withdraw your string immediately as sometimes in doing so you bring out some of the insulin. Count ti 5 then withdraw. The healthiest diabetics take the least amount of insulin possible.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Hi again WAN2! Thank you so much for watching, yay! I appreciate your comments. I am on a high-carb, low-fat, plant-based diet. I have found that this works the best for me and has significantly reduced my insulin needs. I've eaten low carb before but even then I was taking more insulin than I am now, interestingly. I'm working on making a video about this very topic. You're right about pump absorption sites and leaving the needle in for a count of 5 - great tips - and thank you! :-)

[@wan2852]

A needle stabber for 60 years. High carbs were rollercoaster prone for me, so if you can achieve normal BG's with high carbs, I salute you. Sadly(?), most endos are steeped in high carb dictums. Kinda crazy (to me) to have a population that cannot handle carbs being told to eat lots of carbs. And no matter my diligence, I could not keep my BG from hitting 200 after most suppers. My endos thought that was just great. I disagreed. My studies showed every excursion above, say, 150 does harm. High carbs (for me) made that impossible. Best, Will