I am seriously considering an upgrade. I guess you could call it a life upgrade, in some ways.
I've been reading up on the Minimed Revel pump and CGM system. Though the upgrade is pricey, I'm thinking that come the new year and a renewal on my Flexible Spending for medical benefits, I might just be able to swing the $1,300 or so in 2012. Of course, it'll mean forgoing other items that I might want in favor of putting money into my FSA account to cover the cost of the new devices. But I'm thinking it might just be worth it.
I had tried a CGM a long while ago and experienced some real difficulties with the adhesive. It literally pulled my skin off when I tried to remove the sensors. But that was over three year ago, and since then I've talked with a number of other folks who have sensitive skin and who've discovered products that make the adhesive less abrasive. So,hopefully that's a hurdle I won't need to re-jump.
The fact is, my bloodsugar swings of late are making me moodier than they ever have. I'm not sure if it's that I've hit an "age" where these things happen or something else, but rapid swings are more frequent than they've been and often, they send me into rages or hours of deep sadness that I have the hardest time pulling out of. It has an impact on everyone around me. It effects my attitude, not just toward diabetes but toward life. And I want every tool at my disposal to fix it. I guess that means I'm going to need to sacrifice some luxuries - maybe even some basics - to make things better.
Diabetes is challenging, it's expensive. Thankfully, it's not impossible. I'm waiting on a call from a Minimed Rep as I write. Wish me luck!
From what you've written, I take it you are in your early 40's... which suggests you may be in perimenopause. Our female hormone levels drop and /or become irregular long before our monthly courses cease. Perimenopause is said to last about a decade. Combined with diabetes, the mood swings and erratic blood glucose levels are relatively understandable (if not exactly welcome).
Nicole, Can't speak from a woman's point-of-view but, from experience (55 years, 10 w/pump) I know that there are short times when bloodsugars just don't make sense. Now, if you're talking about (which I think you are) more than a few weeks, then getting it more under control would be good.
I have tried to keep up on pumps/CGM's (can't afford CGM--on Medicare) just in case a time should ever come that I can get one. I love Medtronic, but from what I've read the sensors are large and sometimes uncomfortable. Dexcom 7's are supposedly smaller, and therefore, more comfortable. However, Dexcom does not presently work with a pump, which, to me, is a big thing. If you have exposure to people who use both, you might try getting a little more personal information. I do have the new Revel and it is the best so far. I just suggest you do a lot more research on different brands of pumps and CGM's before investing. You're a very smart woman so you probably know already to research, research, research. Let us know what you decide. --Richard
Tmana - Thanks for the note! The weird thing? In trying to get a handle on all of this, my doc has run a number of tests. And it turns out, my estrogen levels are actually HIGHER than they should be. Also, there are indicators of Addison's disease around too - so you know, there are a ton of factors. But yes, perimenopause could be in play. Oi!
Richard - I am researching, researching, researching!!!! I will absolutely let you know how things turn out - thanks for the good wishes!