Changing infusion set sites

As an insulin pump user, every three days I need to change the location of where the insulin gets into my body--as per my doctor and diabetes specialist. Known as the "infusion site," a small plastic catheter is inserted into my skin and sits there for three days, with the tubing from the pump attached. It's a bit of a pain to deal with, but a heck of a lot better than injecting insulin 3-5 times a day.

Since I've been running, I have lost a lot of subcutaneous fat in my upper thighs and hips. That really only leaves the upper backs of my arms and abdomen as remaining sites for my infusion sets. During winter, I tend to use my arms more because I am more than likely wearing long sleeve shirts, etc., and that way the tubing or infusion set do not show to the public (I'm a master of tubing disguise). In summer, I'm pretty much an abdomen guy--and the literature seems right on this area of your body: You will have better and more consistent insulin absorption.

I have had no issues with infections, and I use a small band-aid with bacitracin after I pull out each infusion set. Remember to check your blood sugar within 2 hours after changing sites so you know that everything is working properly. I've had a few scares where I did not check things out, and ended up with a blood sugar of 400 later in the day! This is usually rare, but it can happen. Good luck with your own pump experience, and stay happy and healthy out there running with diabetes.