PUMP TO PEN

Hi Francesca,

I have a similar story. I have found that the pump is far from a set and forget solution. I experience periods where the BG readings are totally unexpected (over a significant period!). I fiddle with the basals/temp basals and suspending the pump etc and do everything I know how and have on two occasions taken the pump off in frustration (not for long!). Recently I went to Korea (late March) and whilst there the BGs were OK (although I seem to need less insulin in the colder weather..the opposite to most people!). On returning the BGs were all over the place (and I felt unwell) swinging from highs to lows exacerbated by the corrections etc. I rang the endocrinologist, angry and frustrated for an urgent appointment. He was sympathetic and did confirm that all the adjustments I had made were logical and that I knew what I was doing but this was not reflected in the BG readings. He advised against routinely suspending the pump. He suggested I see the CDE (Diabetes Educator) who essentially confirmed the endo's summation and did say that my regime was not conventional.
I came home satisfied that they would do nothing different and I continued to tinker. My system (apparently) has (suddenly) decided that I deserve the Dawn Phenomenon and my insulin demand has almost reversed. I used to need comparatively little insulin over night but heaps in the afternoon. That is now reversed...I fought against it just not believing the numbers I was getting. Result: we are back in the land of 7 day averages (82 tests) of 6.9. 14 days again 6.9 and 30 days 8.4 so i am certainly heading in the right direction!. My advice is to go right back to first principles and start again. Heaps and heaps of tests, waking in the night etc and detailed notes. I am now using the temp basal less and have almost given up the suspensions! I find the pump constant work but it is easier now I am retired.
All the best, Helen