Infusion Sets

How do you know when it’s time to try a different infusion set? I’ve been using the same kind for a while and my numbers have been horrible for about a month. I’m changing sites at least every two days and sometimes it takes using up to two or three attempts before I get a good spot.

what kind are u using?? I never change set models because I already use the best one for me. Sure-T

I’ve used some infusion set styles for years without problems. I used the Inset-30’s for several years but then I started to get sites that would not absorb. I think part of the problem was that I was overusing some sites. When I changed set styles and tried new sites, the problem went away.

I’ve been using my lower back, above the belt, to the left and right of my spine. It’s been working real well. I haven’t used a abdomen site in a few years. I’m hoping this extended break will restore those sites. I even went through several physical therapy sessions (massage, heat, ultrasound, and TENs stimulation) to try and break up scar tissue.

Hi are yours teflon? I wanted to change to metal ones as my Insett II’s kink and in heat fall off. Endo said no to metal as claimed causes skin problems. He suggested angled instead.

Make sure you haven’t got an infection or that new medication isn’t driving your unusual BG readings. Give your pump provider a call and ask for some samples of a different style of infusion set. They may have a policy of sending free samples to customers.

your endo is wrong. each person has their own reaction, or non-reaction to certain set types.

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Before trying a new type of set, I would suggest you try another area on your body. I have been pumping for 19 years and cannot use my abdomen anymore. The absorption is just horrible there. I’ve moved on to other places and the results are much better. $0.02

Sarah :four_leaf_clover:

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hi, i have been on metal sets for over 10 years now, never had any reaction and only one kinked set in this time, so unless you have tried it out yourself i wouldnt say that it causes reaction. it can cause a reaction just as much as any other set can.

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Hi I didn’t say it did I have no idea it was my Endos reply to my question.

Thanks will keep in mind.

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Ps thanks for reply v kind.

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Hi knowing nhs in uk my Endo has probably been told to say that if metal cannulas are more expensive :grinning:

here in switzerland they are actually cheaper. however, they tell you to change them every 2 days (whereas teflon every 3), but i change them every 3 days as well without problem, so they are cheaper for me. if you have to change them every 2 days they do get more expensive….

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Hi guys, can anyone please help me???
I’m seeing endo tomorrow and I may need to transition to a new pump while I await for Medicare (on it since 1/15) to approve OmniPods which I’ve been and love for last 7 years.
It’s hard to teach an old horse new tricks and I’m looking for simple but accurate technology - something that Medicare might approve. I’m 67 and type 1 for over 50 years.
HELP PLEASE!!!:cold_sweat::flushed:

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sorry i dont know medicares preference. however, here is a list of the pumps available in the U.S., you might wanna read this and find out which ones you like.

http://integrateddiabetes.com/insulin-pump-comparisons/

http://asweetlife.org/feature/insulin-pump-comparison-which-pump-is-right-for-you/

the later one is from @Melissa_Lee, our interim executive director, who is just awesome. good luck!

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Thank u Swiss, greatly appreciate it!:blush:

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Hi. Thanks for your replies, everyone. I use quick set and am switching to comfort short. I’m getting lots of bleeding and bruising, plugged sites and “gushers.” Hopefully switching to an angled set vs. straight in will help

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I suspect that a lot of problems result from using inserters. My first pump was a Medtronic and I started with the Silhouettes. My DSN/trainer advised all new pumpers to insert manually as she said the spring-loaded inserters tended to cause kinking of the cannula. When I switched to an Animas pump, I tried the Inset 30’s (which come with an inserter), but found the cannulas tended to kink. I now use Comfort Shorts which are inserted manually, and never have a problem with kinking. They are also a greener solution since you aren’t throwing away a plastic inserter every time you put in a new set.

Joel

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How is manual insertion? Painfree and easy?

Absolutely. You make the pace, basically like a shot.

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