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What Are the Dangers of Insulin Pumps?

Insulin pumps aid in the treatment of diabetes. However, with improper use dangerous side effects may occur. Improper use can be attributed to either the actual pump or the user of the pump.

  1. Improper Insulin Delivery

    • Delivering too much or too little insulin to the diabetic patient can result in hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. While both are associated with headache, dizziness and coma, the danger of these occurrences can be decreased if the user of the insulin pump has proper training.

    Pump Maintenance

    • If an insulin pump is not properly maintained, the pump could lead to improper insulin delivery. Checking the pump often for wear and tear will help keep the occurrence of dangers from a pump malfunction to a minimum.

    Weight Gain

    • If a snack or meal is something the diabetic would not normally eat due to high carbohydrate or sugar content, insulin delivered from the pump can be adjusted to allow for the eating of those foods. Some diabetics eat as if they are not diabetic, resulting in weight gain.

    Infection

    • If a cannula site is not changed frequently enough, an infection can develop. Diabetics traditionally have a difficult time recovering from any type of infection, which compounds the danger of infection.

    Pump Size and Function

    • To properly use an insulin pump, the diabetic must be able to see the pump screen, hear the pump alarms and manipulate the buttons. Most insulin pumps manufactured today are small to appeal to the masses and not get in the way of daily activities. This may present a danger for those who cannot see or hear well or who have lost manual dexterity in that they will not be able to properly use the insulin pump.

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