Do insulin pumps hurt? This question is frequently asked by people who are newly diagnosed with diabetes. While there is no definitive answer to this question, there are some common side effects to consider. A plastic cannula is inserted into the belly, thigh, or upper buttocks. The insulin is delivered through the cannula underneath the skin. Insulin pumps eliminate the need for insulin shots and are safe for most people. But they do have some drawbacks, including pain and soreness.
An insulin pump is a small device about the size of a deck of cards, although it can be smaller or larger depending on the model. It is attached to the body using an infusion set, which includes thin plastic tubing, a needle, and a small tapered tube. The infusion site is usually the belly, buttock, or thigh. Insulin pumps use rapid or short-acting insulin. Rather than one large shot per day, the insulin is delivered continuously and in small amounts.
An insulin pump is much less obtrusive than shots and may be more convenient to use. With a pump, you can check your blood sugar before you go to a restaurant or take a walk. You don’t need to carry insulin to a restaurant or hotel unless you’re going to be in a car, so you can enter your blood sugar readings and carb grams into the pump. The pump will then automatically calculate your insulin dose and deliver it while you eat.
