My daughter (10 years old) has been on the pod for about 9 months now, and for the most part are LOVING it! However, within the last 2 months or so, she has been getting an irritation at the pod site. Usually day one is fine, but the second day she says it itches, and of course she scratches! Sometimes she scratches so much that the pod starts to come off the adhesive, while the adhesive is still sticking to her skin. When it’s time for a site change, and we remove the pod, her skin is very red and irritated. There have been a few times that she actually has “wounds” (like a scrape) that are sore and ■■■■■. This could be from her itching so much, but I can’t figure out what is causing the itching and rash in the first place. We use a skin prep wipe before setting the pod to try and create a skin barrier. Her doctor looked at it last month, and said it wasn’t an allergic reaction. She’s getting very discouraged, to the point she’s in tears some nights. Anyone have experience with this? Any advice?
Tony started a similar discussion “pod change before 72 hrs” check that one, it’s on page 2. it seems other people are having the same problem. they have different theories… hope that helps.
Not specifically with the pod but had problems with sets and used Cavilon no-sting barrier film made by 3M. It comes like alcohol pads and gave me protection. Hope you find something that works
Try laying down a barrier between the skin and the pod using Tegaderm. It’s an extremely thin transparent sticky film that you can buy at medical supply facilities. It comes in various sizes and your insurance might cover it.
You put a tegaderm under the pod? We have used tegaderm in the past, over the pod, when I know she’ll be swimming for a long time to help protect the adhesive. It didn’t pother her skin, but it didn’t seem to stick well either. Did you have any problems with the tegaderms staying on?
Yes, I have put it on under the pod…never had problems with it sticking. I also have put it over the pod when I’ve had a massage.
Amy Tenderich talks about this problem with her pod adhesives in several posts (click the link) on DiabetesMine.com.
My suggestion is similar to others’. Try using a skin barrier such as Skin Tac before applying the pods. Poor little thing. I hope you guys find a solution.
I have had similiar problems with mine. I am only able to place the pod on my abdomen region to get consistent results. I do have a latex allergy but I am not always irritated. I notice that when I exercise, sweat seems to irritate the adhesive.