Insulin pumps are small external devices that provide a controllable supply of insulin to diabetes patients through a catheter placed in the abdomen. Despite their general benefit, use of these devices may trigger two dangerous diabetes complications.

Weight Gain

According to the American Diabetes Association, use of an insulin pump may trigger weight gain in diabetes patients. This may potentially contribute to obesity, which is a known factor in diabetes development.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

In some individuals, unnoticed displacement of an insulin pump catheter may trigger symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially fatal condition characterized by the production of toxic acids called ketones.

Cause of Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis occurs when high blood sugar levels resulting from lack of insulin force the body to break down fats for energy.

Ketoacidosis Symptoms

The Mayo Clinic cites symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis that include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, unusual thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite and breath that smells like fruit. Doctors may also detect the syndrome through the presence of high ketone levels in a patient's urine.

Additonal Disadvantages

In addition to distinct medical dangers, potential disadvantages of insulin pump use include the expense of acquiring a device and the inconvenience of using a pump and catheter long-term.

Source:

American Diabetes Association-Disadvantages of Using an Insulin Pump

Mayo Clinic-Diabetic Ketoacidosis

U.S. National Library of Medicine-National Institutes of Health: Diabetes

More Information:

American Diabetes Association-Insulin Pumps