I should preface this by saying that I have sensitive skin. For example, I cannot use most deodorants because they make my underarm skin red and itchy and the last time I used bug spray I broke out in hives.
That said, the adhesive on the infusion set for my pump (Medtronic) itches all of the time. I have considered going back on shots for this (and other) reason, but ultimately decided that that is a bad idea. Does any one have any ideas on how to make the adhesive more tolerable? I did try one thing....can't remember what it's called...it was like something else that you put on your skin and put the needle through it... kind of like a second skin. Anyway, that didn't work so well because it had a tendency to come off in the shower.
Any thoughts/ideas/advice would be greatly appreciated!
I, too, react to the adhesive on the Medtronic infusion sets. I've had good luck with Tegaderm patches, which really stay on very well. I used to use the IV3000 tape, but they changed the adhesive several years ago and now they don't stick as well. Try the tegaderm...but when you put them on and take the tape off the front, be sure to smooth the patch over your skin in case any edge area doesn't stick...it will once you rub your hand over the patch.
I have the same issue with Medtronics adhesive. I never had this with Animas but the sets are not compatable so there you go.
I do 3 things. Because the inflamation also causes increased risk of infection, I start SKIN TAC and wipe down the area, Then I apply a small dot of NEOSPORIN in the center, Then I apply the IV3000 over it. Then poke through right on the spot of NEOSPORIN underneath, Making sure the adhesive sits completely on the IV300.
With this setup I never get irratation and never get infection and it actually stays on 3 days. I never tried tagederm but I'm sure it would work as well, as long as you are not allergic to it's adhesive.
It sounds like a lot of work but you can get used to it just like all the rest of the crap we need to deal with being diabetic.
I use Opsite Flexifix (available on Amazon). In the summer, my sites definitely get really itchy because of all the sweating. I put a layer of Opsite Flexifix on my skin BEFORE attaching my infusion set and it works as a barrier between me and the adhesive. Works wonders and stays on for 3+ days with no issues. I do use a layer of Skin Tac over the opsite flexifix but don't apply the Skin Tac directly to my skin because that too can cause itching.
Interestingly, I don't have this issue in the cold winter months. Only in the middle of the summer.
The summertime issue can be yeast or fungi infections. I get them under iv3000 and just standard tape too but only when it is hot for a long time. They usually clear up pretty fast too. I had one diagnosed and I figure that is what is everytime.
I use a product from ReliaMed - Protective Barrier Wipe. It come packaged like alcohol swabs and I wipe it on the area I will be placing my pod and let it dry. Then attach my pod to that spot. Before using this I had terrible itching, especially on my abdomin, but now that is eliminated!
Brianna, there is a tape you can get from Animas that's called IV2000 I think. It's like a second skin. You do inject the infusion set through it. It works very well and does not come off when in the shower, sweating or swimming.
