New pumpers dread the part that they don't like the most, is wearing it in bed.If there is more than one of you in the bed, the challenges of sleeping with a medical device are not as difficult to overcome as they first appear.If you're used to wearing a pump, it may seem odd to sleep with one, but you will soon learn to appreciate the benefits.
Step 1: Try to forget about it.
The struggle of sleeping with aninsulin pump is psychological.It's only about the size of a cell phone.It may be helpful to keep it out of your mind or forget it.It will be difficult for you to sleep if you are thinking about the pump.You don't have to worry about where your pump is when you're trying to sleep if you have a safe place to keep it.Don't let the feeling of the pump or accessories distract you.Things that help you sleep can be found in How to fall asleep.It takes time to get used to using a pump, but most people can sleep with one after a short transition.If you have time before you go to sleep, you can go for a walk or read a book.You will have an easier time falling asleep if you calm your mind before bed.
Step 2: You should prepare those you share a bed with.
The stress of sleeping with aninsulin pump is based on how it may affect those you share a bed with.The easiest way to overcome stress is to talk to your family about your pump.Discuss the pump with your partner so they can address any questions you may have.It is possible to have your children sleep in their own beds if you share a bed.Children could easily get caught up in the tubes of the pump and play with it as you sleep.
Step 3: Don't worry about your pump.
They are surprisingly resilient and are designed for everyday use.You will become familiar with your pump as you live longer with it.It is important toFamiliarize yourself with it and learn what it can do.They can take a decent amount of punishment with little to no issue because they are built to be worn all day and slept with.If you roll onto your pump, it won't hurt it.You may wake up to roll over if it makes you uncomfortable.Even if you sleep on the pump, the chances of causing issues are very low because the buttons are hard to press.
Step 4: The risks can be learned.
Sleeping with a pump is very safe.The pumps have been designed to be worn 24 hours a day and are very resistant to issues like crimped tubes or accidentally pressing a button, but you should still be aware of the risks and how to address an emergency if it were to arise.If the pump stops working overnight, it's the biggest risk associated with sleeping with it.If your pump stops working, you'll need to test your bloodglucose levels and use an injection to treat it.If there is an issue with the pump, it is fitted with an alarm.An alarm won't be set off by a cannula coming off in the middle of the night.You should be able to feel the pain of the ripping.
Step 5: You need to clip your pump to you.
There are a lot of options when it comes to where to put your pump.The waistband of your pants or shorts can be clipped to make them more comfortable.This method keeps the pump close to you so you don't get caught up in the hoses.You may roll onto the pump, but once people get used to it, they tend to roll back over.It is not likely that rolling onto your pump will cause any problems.
Step 6: The bed has a pump on it.
If you don't like sleeping with your pump attached to your clothing, you can choose to sleep with it on the bed next to you.You may want to let your partner know where you put it.You are less likely to roll onto the pump as you sleep.It's a good idea to place your pump somewhere that it won't fall off the bed.
Step 7: Your skin should be protected from irritation.
If you sleep with the pump clipped to your clothing, you may want to make sure it doesn't irritate your skin.A rash can be caused by bare plastic.The material of the pump shouldn't bother you unless you put it in a sock.It is possible to cover the pump and wear it on your arm with an armband.Some people wear them in their underwear, shorts, or bra.It's a good idea to wear your pump in this fashion or clip it to your clothes if you get up frequently at night.
Step 8: The pump should be near your bed.
If you're worried about rolling onto your pump or pushing it off the bed, put it near your bed on a nightstand or something similar.It is possible to place the pump on the nightstand.The pump will not be knocked off the bed.There is an increased chance of getting tangled up in the hoses, but the chances of a malfunction are still low.
Step 9: It's a good idea to check your Blood Glucose levels at first.
For the first week or two, you will need to check your blood sugars frequently to make sure your pump works well.For the first two weeks, check your blood sugar levels eight to ten times per day.Depending on your checks, you or your doctor may need to adjust settings for treatment.You may be able to get a glucometer and test strips from your doctor if he prescribes them.
Step 10: At night, pay special attention to your blood sugar levels.
You need to check your levels frequently until you have the right settings for your body.Some people have high blood sugar at night.Increased nighttime urination is a symptom of nocturia.When you wake up, check your blood sugar levels.You can check your levels midway through your sleep or every three to four hours.Discuss your readings with your doctor to make sure your overnight rates are set correctly.
Step 11: Continue to keep an eye on your night levels.
You should still check your blood sugar levels in the evening even after you have your settings right.Alterations to your dosages or treatment plan may be required if your body changes how well it handles the treatment.Before you go to bed, make sure you check your blood sugar levels.When you first get up, make sure you have high blood sugar levels.In the middle of the night, check your blood sugar levels to make sure you are still on the right course of treatment.
Step 12: Understand the causes of low blood sugar levels.
Changes to the normal activity in your treatment plan can cause low blood sugar.You should be aware of the things you do that may affect your body.Accidentally taking too much medication can lower BC levels.If you skip meals or eat less than usual, your bloodglucose level can be lower than intended.If you exercise too much before bed, your blood sugars can go down while you sleep.
Step 13: The symptoms of nighttime hypoglycemia can be seen.
If you learn what symptoms to look for when your bloodglucose level drops dangerously, you will be able to identify problems before you check your levels.Sweating can tell you that your blood sugar level is too low.A throbbing head can indicate low blood sugar levels.If you wake up as a result of a nightmare, you may have low blood sugar levels.Other symptoms include tremors, palpitations, anxiety, and seizure.
Step 14: Think about what you drink and eat.
Make sure you take that into account before you go to bed, some nights are bound to break the norm and involve different levels of eating or drinking.Don't forget to take what you've already taken.It is possible for fast acting insulin to stay in your system for up to four hours, so take all of it into account when determining your dosage.You shouldn't have midnight snacks.If you snack frequently, it's a good idea to adjust your boluses to reflect your snacks.If you drink alcohol, you should have an extra snack at night.