Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high glucose (sugar) levels in your blood. Insulin, a hormone (chemical) made in your pancreas, is responsible for lowering sugar levels. If your body is unable to produce insulin, synthetic insulin can be administered via insulin pump technology.
Definition
According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF), an insulin pump is a small computerized device that pumps low levels of insulin to your body through a needle-containing plastic tube. The needle can be placed into your arm, thigh or buttocks.
Advantages
The American Diabetes Association states many advantages exist when you use diabetic insulin pump technology. For example, it accurately delivers insulin and better maintains your blood sugar levels than insulin injections. The insulin pump also improves your quality of life because you can exercise and eat without following stringent rules and schedules.
Disadvantages
The American Diabetes Association states that disadvantages of insulin pump technology include risk of infection, frequent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and ketoacidosis (condition of very high blood sugars).
Population
People of all ages can use diabetic insulin pump technology, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Benefits
Diabetic insulin pump technology allows delivery of basal (low level) insulin continuously for 24 hours. According to the American Diabetic Association, this controls your blood sugar levels in between meals and at night.
