|  | Conditions Treatments | Diabetes

The Benefits of an Insulin Pump Vs. Insulin Injections

The insulin pump has become popular over the past decade, especially with younger diabetics. There are many reasons why, and most of them center on an improved quality of life over the alternative of insulin injections. Of course, the pump has its drawbacks, including price and learning how to use the device. Nevertheless, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.

  1. Easily Concealed

    • One huge advantage of the insulin pump is that it is easily concealed and insulin may be administered without those in the vicinity knowing. Insulin injections are obvious, and many diabetics choose to excuse themselves from public situations to administer their insulin in private. This is not necessary with the insulin pump.

    Improved Blood Sugar Levels

    • The insulin pump is better than insulin injections at maintaining close to normal blood sugar levels. That's because the pump administers small amounts of insulin all day and all night, much like the body would produce insulin naturally. In contrast, injections are given in larger doses several times a day. Blood sugar levels are improved significantly with the insulin pump, and highs and lows in blood sugar occur much less frequently.

    No Daily Shots

    • Another benefit of the insulin pump is the elimination of daily shots. The insulin pump is connected to the body through a catheter, usually in the abdomen, and only requires changing every couple of days. Inserting the catheter is done with a small needle, but that is only one prick every two to three days rather than three or more every day.

    Flexibility

    • Diabetics using insulin injections to manage their condition must be very strict about mealtimes and how many carbohydrates they are eating to administer the right amount of insulin. Using the insulin pump allows for more flexibility with mealtimes as well as the foods that are eaten. Insulin injections require diabetics to figure out the amount of insulin needed and the best time to administer the insulin. With a pump, insulin is being administered continuously, so diabetics need only press a button for an extra dose of insulin after they eat something.

    Reduced Risk of Hypoglycemia

    • The insulin pump decreases the risk of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which is an emergency situation that requires action. The insulin pump allows for tighter control of diabetes, which in turn results in fewer extremes of blood sugar.

Diabetes - Related Articles