The infusion set is a thin plastic tube with a fine needle at the end. It carries the insulin from the pump to the site of infusion beneath your skin. Maintaining a low level of insulin cuts down on bouts of low blood sugar occurring in the morning and with unexpected exercise or stress. With the press of a button, you program how much additional insulin the pump is to release, depending on results of blood sugar monitoring and the amount of food you intend to eat. Your body's rhythms and requirements are unique, so you must work very closely with your physician to get the doses just right for you.
Most people quickly adapt to wearing a pump.
When the infusion set is properly inserted and the skin at the site is not irritated, you should not be aware of the device. The most common infusion site is the abdomen, and tubing comes in lengths long enough to allow you to put the pump in your pocket or clip it on your belt. The pump can be put in waterproof coverings during showering and swimming and protective cases during sports. Some pumps have a quick-release device for temporary detachment. Most patients feel that the adjustments they have to make are minor and that having their diabetes well controlled makes the effort worthwhile.