Swimming with a pump

Diabetes Technology Insulin Pumps
1

Hello, in a few weeks I plan to go on vacation and would like to do some snorkeling, which I've not done since I starting using a pump. Does anyone have any advice or comments about how to handle this?

Thank Earl

2

If you have the Animas Ping pump which is waterproof, just wear swim shorts with a pocket and put it in there. If you have any other pump, then it's not waterproof so you have to bolus an hour's worth of basal and take the pump off. Then each hour, test and re-bolus for another hour's worth of basal +/- any needed correction. To keep your infusion site adhered after lots of water contact, order Opsite Flexifix (no other brand works as well) tape off Amazon and cover the infusion site with that. The tape is about $30 for a roll, but it will last you for years because it's so large. Just cut several pieces so you're not somewhere without scissors.

3

Could also look into "untethered regimen"...
http://www.childrenwithdiabetes.com/clinic/untethered.htm

4

if you are just snorkeling for a short time, i would just disconnect the pump, test after coming back to shore and correct if needed. i was snorkeling a year ago and did it that way, as i wanted to avoid a low out in the water and don't feel lows really good in the water. works best for me. i think you will make it 1 or 2 hours without a pump, then it would be time to check again.

5

I'm a SCUBA diver. I don't dive with my pump. I eat a high carb breakfast and only dive if I'm above 200. In between dives, I'll check my sugar and eat some carbs to get me back over 200.

6

Thanks to all, this has been helpful.

7

here are some discussions we've had on the subject
http://www.tudiabetes.org/group/minimedparadigmusers/forum/topics/pumping-on-the-beach
http://www.tudiabetes.org/group/omnipodusers/forum/topics/beach-vacation-pod-adhesion-co-pilot-questions
http://www.tudiabetes.org/group/minimedparadigmusers/forum/topics/can-you-go-swimming-or-shower

8

What pump are you using? I use the Omnipod partly because I never have to take it off for swimming, showering, or even in the hot tub. IDK about other types though.