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    • 4 hours, 34 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      If you use an insulin pump that comes with a clip, how often do you have your pump clip attached to your pump?
      The more important question is 'how well does the clip work'. For me, the Medtronic clip worked very well, but the Tandem clip is quite ineffective and the pump falls off my belt during things like yard work or other bending movements.
    • 4 hours, 35 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      If you use an insulin pump that comes with a clip, how often do you have your pump clip attached to your pump?
      I answered never. I always use a clip -- I wear my t:slim x2 on my belt -- but not the Tandem clip. I use the black t:Holster Rotating Belt Clip. Very pleased.
    • 4 hours, 36 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      If you use an insulin pump that comes with a clip, how often do you have your pump clip attached to your pump?
      I am rough on pumps and use a Tandem X2 but dont use the Tandem clip/holster. I use a neoprene case and a pouch with a metal clip. Thenmetal clip is uncomfortable while I sleep. Looking for a different solution for wearing my pump at night.
    • 1 day ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      I answered that nobody wants to be screened, but I was answering based on my immediate family. I did let my deceased type-1 diabetic cousin's 35 year old son know he can be tested for his likelihood of becoming type-1 diabetic. He said he may be tested as he was always curious if he had a chance.
    • 1 day, 1 hour ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      I have T1, and when my oldest grandson got T1, the other 3 grandkids got screened. The grandson who's the brother of the one with T1, showed a strong possibility of being a future T1 diabetic. It sadly came true about a year later.
    • 1 day, 1 hour ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      I have LADA, and the idea of screening has not come up, either by me or my adult children. I guess I need to present the opportunity to them so they can make the decision.
    • 1 day, 1 hour ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Samantha Walsh likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      I was born in 1939 and had many childhood illnesses. Three different kinds of measles and tonsils removed before I was 5 years old, then mumps and chickenpox when I was 5. While recovering from the mumps and chickenpox, I began showing the symptoms of very high blood sugar. Three doctors examined me and they were not able to make a diagnosis. I had lost much weight, and I had stopped eating. I did not have an appetite. It was almost impossible for me to walk. A fourth doctor had my blood tested and he made the diagnosis. While receiving pork insulin I finally began to recover a few days after my sixth birthday. I did not have ant relatives with diabetes. I think the childhood diseases caused internal damage and that was the cause of my diabetes. At the present time there are still no type one diabetics among my relatives. I do not believe it is necessary for my children and grandchildren to be screened for T1D autoantibodies.
    • 1 day, 23 hours ago
      KarenM6 likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 2 days, 1 hour ago
      Katie Bennett likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 2 days, 2 hours ago
      Kate Kuhn likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 2 days, 2 hours ago
      Karen DeVeaux likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      I was born in 1939 and had many childhood illnesses. Three different kinds of measles and tonsils removed before I was 5 years old, then mumps and chickenpox when I was 5. While recovering from the mumps and chickenpox, I began showing the symptoms of very high blood sugar. Three doctors examined me and they were not able to make a diagnosis. I had lost much weight, and I had stopped eating. I did not have an appetite. It was almost impossible for me to walk. A fourth doctor had my blood tested and he made the diagnosis. While receiving pork insulin I finally began to recover a few days after my sixth birthday. I did not have ant relatives with diabetes. I think the childhood diseases caused internal damage and that was the cause of my diabetes. At the present time there are still no type one diabetics among my relatives. I do not believe it is necessary for my children and grandchildren to be screened for T1D autoantibodies.
    • 2 days, 3 hours ago
      Kelly-Dayne likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 2 days, 4 hours ago
      William Bennett likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      Hi Kristen, thanks so much for your feedback. We do plan to continue questions and education on T1D screening. The constantly evolving clinical trials and FDA-approved therapies that offer the potential to intervene, delay —— and hopefully some day prevent —— T1D are only effective if children are being screened for the earliest stages of T1D. Without screening, we cannot delay or prevent T1D. We do offer "No, my family members have no been screened" as an option. We appreciate your passion as a person affected by T1D and hope you enjoy our other daily questions. All the best, The T1D Exchange team
    • 2 days, 4 hours ago
      Jneticdiabetic likes your comment at
      Have you ever participated in a charity fundraising event that benefitted a diabetes organization (i.e., a walk, marathon, gala, etc.)?
      I have led a team for the JDRF OneWalk annually since the late 1990's. We have been able to raise a lot of funds for JDRF...and I have enjoyed doing it. Good cause!
    • 2 days, 4 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      If you or someone in your family has T1D, have other members of your family been screened for T1D autoantibodies? If not, do you think your family would be willing to be screened for T1D autoantibodies?
      my siblings & parents are older (like me) and they've never expressed any interest in getting tested. my nieces and nephews have never said anything either
    • 2 days, 16 hours ago
      Karen Newe likes your comment at
      Have you ever participated in a charity fundraising event that benefitted a diabetes organization (i.e., a walk, marathon, gala, etc.)?
      I participated in several ADA walks not long after being Dx with T1D. As Ahh Life points out large $ are rased, but where do they go? I stopped supporting ADA for that reason. I think JDF is much more open on where the funding goes.
    • 2 days, 16 hours ago
      Karen Newe likes your comment at
      Have you ever participated in a charity fundraising event that benefitted a diabetes organization (i.e., a walk, marathon, gala, etc.)?
      JDRF only. I like knowing that my contributions are going specifically to T1D.
    • 2 days, 16 hours ago
      Karen Newe likes your comment at
      Have you ever participated in a charity fundraising event that benefitted a diabetes organization (i.e., a walk, marathon, gala, etc.)?
      I have led a team for the JDRF OneWalk annually since the late 1990's. We have been able to raise a lot of funds for JDRF...and I have enjoyed doing it. Good cause!
    • 2 days, 20 hours ago
      Joindy23 likes your comment at
      The last time you discussed adding a new device or medication to your T1D management routine with your health care provider, who initially suggested trying the new device or medication?
      Switched a long time ago to Tandem/Dexcom from Minimed because of improved and more automated control, and haven't looked back. Still wishing for a cure, but know it's not going to happen for dinosaurs like me. I'll just be glad when young people will will one day experience that magic word: cure. It's too easy to sit around and complain, but it's high time for a cure, and way past time having us depend on treatment that is pretty much a money maker for big Pharma when it seems as if there's a cure waiting in the wings. Filling up landfills with used pump supplies, etc., makes our society look nothing but incompetent and greedy. Sorry to rant.......
    • 2 days, 20 hours ago
      Joindy23 likes your comment at
      The last time you discussed adding a new device or medication to your T1D management routine with your health care provider, who initially suggested trying the new device or medication?
      They do too often. Why I ask? Well because it will help long term.... oh how do you know that it will help? It's a brand new medication, never been used by the D community, except for the shortest term study mandated in order to get it to market, and sell. Long term has never been achieved... its NEW. Let's revisit/wait a couple years... if its MAGIC medicine, sure I'll try it. But unless it's got magic properties, guarantees magic results why would I want it, until it's been used for a decent while??? Oh well... yeah, guess that does makes sense....
    • 3 days, 13 hours ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      Does your T1D health care provider currently offer the option to have virtual appointments (via phone or video call)?
      Yes and for the last year and a half that is exclusively what I have been offered so I am not getting all the usual checks an in person endo visit requires. ADA and others spent 10-20 years convincing endos they needed to check patients feet and that progress has evaporated.
    • 3 days, 13 hours ago
      Wanacure likes your comment at
      Does your T1D health care provider currently offer the option to have virtual appointments (via phone or video call)?
      I would rather see in person. He checks my feet, BP etc. we have a chance to catch up and for me to ask questions. To me so much better face to face. We did virtual during pandemic.
    • 3 days, 21 hours ago
      Phyllis Biederman likes your comment at
      If you use an insulin pump, do you currently have a protective case on your pump or PDM?
      I’ll occasionally use the holster with clip that came with my pump or a protective case of my own when I’m wearing something without pockets. However I find these quite bulky thus usually just slip my pump in a pocket.
    • 3 days, 21 hours ago
      KarenM6 likes your comment at
      Of the people in your life, who (if anyone) makes you feel judged or criticized for your T1D management (for example, what foods you eat, where or when you check your blood glucose, etc.)? Select all that apply to you.
      Hmmm... I'd almost welcome it, another challenge to enjoy?
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    For people who have experience with both an insulin pump and CGM: If you could only choose to use one of these devices, which one would you use? Share why in the comments!

    Home > LC Polls > For people who have experience with both an insulin pump and CGM: If you could only choose to use one of these devices, which one would you use? Share why in the comments!
    Previous

    If you had T1D before attending college, did the quality of a university’s healthcare facilities and their services for people with T1D factor into your decision of which school to attend?

    Next

    From which healthcare provider do you receive the majority of your diabetes care?

    Sarah Howard

    Sarah Howard (nee Tackett) has dedicated her career to supporting the T1D community ever since she was diagnosed with T1D while in college in May 2013. Since then, she has worked for various diabetes organizations, focusing on research, advocacy, and community-building efforts for people with T1D and their loved ones. Sarah is currently the Senior Manager of Marketing at T1D Exchange. Sarah and her husband live in NYC with their cat Gracie. In her spare time, she enjoys doing comedy, taking dance classes, visiting art museums, and exploring different neighborhoods in NYC.

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    75 Comments

    1. Wanacure

      If I’d been approved and if i could have afforded it, I would also have tried a pod insulin delivery device. For now the CGM is very helpful, even though I’ve just had one printout (for a two-week period) in the past six months.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    2. Kevin McCue

      Having the accurate cgm information at hand to make necessary changes so much more useful than having to prick my finger every time I need to get a static reading without knowing the trend also

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    3. Steven Gill

      The advantage of the CGM is I learned I don’t require insulin 24 hours a day. The advantage of the pump is I can stop the insulin release.

      I think for a newer diabetic the CGM is great, for someone with an active lifestyle and not afraid of adjustments (I make different pump adjustments) there’re definitely advantages of the pump.

      For a newly diagnosed I’d think a CGM for the confidence of knowing the legend. After a year with both in a closed loop system, 3 with only the pump I’d opt for the pump alone.

      It’s kind of up to the confidence of the person and definitely advantage to each.

      But for mr, if only one the pump.

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    4. Sandra Norman

      Tough question since having closed loop system – it is working so great, but I guess I have to go with the CGM as the pump would not work without that. I would manage but not be happy…

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    5. ConnieT1D62

      CGM. I use both in a closed loop system and would be very unhappy if I had to give up one or the other. However, I could manage manipulating insulin dosing with long and short/quick acting injections if needed as I have survived living with T1D for nearly 60 years and have managed doing so in the past. I rely & depend on the CGM to alert me of fluctuating trends in real time.

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    6. KCR

      CGM allows me to live a safer, healthier life.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    7. Conniekaycox

      Can best manage defective pancreas with both. Have hypoglycemia issues. Without dexcom would be in er all the time.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    8. Marsha Miller

      I would miss either so much! But I decided I would keep my pump. I could go back to fingersticks multiple times a day. I did this for several years and my A1C can still be normal.

      5
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    9. Chrisanda

      I had to think hard, but I would go with just the pump. Finger sticks to check my BS is preferable to trying to adjust two kinds of insulin to cover the daily and bolus requirements. Being able to adjust my insulin to different foods, activities, etc with a few buttons, not having to carry syringes or pens…. I pray I never have to make a decision like this!

      6
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    10. Gary Taylor

      I choose pump without the CGM. It is a tough choice because I really love knowing the data, but the alarms with the CGM are annoying enough, especially at night, that at times I feel I might be better off without it.

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. AnitaS

        I very rarely get alarms at night. If you are getting alarms because of low blood sugar, you really should appreciate those alarms.

        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    11. GLORIA MILLER

      I would not want to live without a pump. I have been on a pump since the early 1990s and have been T1 for 64 years. Before the pump I would have convulsions at night after a lot of hiking. Those are not pleasant experiences! Not a one after getting a pump. I do love the freedom the CGM offers me but I managed for over 50 years without one. But I do NOT want to have to give up either!

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    12. Rob Smith

      Actually made this decision. Went off pump (many reasons) and kept CGM.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    13. Lawrence Stearns

      The insulin pump was the single most life changing device in my diabetes care. For 21 years before I got my first pump, I lived in a constant fog with multiple hypoglycemic episodes, every day. My life changed and improved instantly, as soon as I got onto an insulin pump, and off of the NPH, regular insulin syringe routine. My head cleared up immediately, my social interactions improved immediately, my ability to perform my work improved immediately.
      I love my CGM system with Tandem/Dexcom G6 Control IQ, It has also improved the quality of my life. But, I could never go back to injections. I believe, at my age, injections would probably shorten my life, and definitely severely worsen the quality of my life.

      4
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    14. Janice B

      A CGM is the only way to see what your blood sugar trends are, have alerts which for me are crucial.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    15. kristina blake

      I answered CGM only, but I think I’ve changed my mind. Prior to Dexcom I was a 15-20 fingersticks a day person, and I ‘spose I could go back. Most of my insulin doses are small fractions – can’t do that on MDI, and having different basal rates throughout the day, I would probably need to have at least 4 different Lantus injections of varying amounts. Ideally, I wouldn’t have to give up either one. Together my Tandem X2 with BIQ (not interested in CIQ) and my Dexcom G6 allow me to be aggressive in my D mgt

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. AnitaS

        I am always interested in why people aren’t interested in CIQ. I know it helps me from climbing too high. Why aren’t you interested?

        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    16. Rose Lentzke

      I started with only the pump years ago and would not give it up. You can always do finger sticks for glucose measurements. However, I would give neither up at this point!

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Patricia Kilwein

        Yes, same for me. But also very thankful for cgm. Both together are life savers for me. I had just the pump for 2 years before my insurance would OK cgm. Both are important to me. So grateful to not have to poke fingers 7x a day…..

        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    17. Sahran Holiday

      Very ignorant question. Both, no one should go back to horse and buggy. Close to unsubscribing if the questions don’t stop insulting people’s intelligence.

      5
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Kathleen Amper

        Many people do very well without a pump so your horse and buggy statement is what is ignorant. Just because a pump works well for you doesn’t mean it’s the obvious choice for all.

        5
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
      2. AnitaS

        They aren’t insinuating that you should only use one. They are just asking which one you find helps you better control your diabetes. That is how I interpret the question.

        7
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
      3. NancyT

        I totally agree about this being a very pointless and insulting question. Hopefully, you’re intent is to lower costs and increase insurance coverage so that all PWD can access these benefits.

        2 years ago Log in to Reply
      4. Ahh Life

        My intelligence is never insulted, umm . . . since the bar is very low. However, Sophie’s choice is the choice none of us ever wants to face. Nor is the choice twixt CGM and pump. But forced into that choice, whether by cost, insurance, or a myriad of other fully legitimate and omnipresent reasons, the analysis and advice of Steven Gill and several others given here, are exceptionally sound.

        1
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
      5. Mary Halverson

        Maybe a few of us are newer-ly diagnosed and highly appreciate the questions and user responses for how others live with this disease?

        4
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    18. Mick Martin

      I selected “Use pump only, without a CGM” primarily because MDI (Multiple Daily Injections) left me with areas of lipohypertrophy … collections of fatty tissue that builds up from repeatedly injecting in the same area(s).

      Even with testing my blood glucose levels up to about 20 times a day I needed to repeatedly inject correction boluses, which didn’t help matters. (I have gastroparesis, which is delayed emptying of stomach contents, which often led me to experience hypoglycaemic events {hypoglycemic, for my American cousins] which needed treating, and this led me to experience higher than ‘normal’ ranges of blood glucose levels.

      Even with pump and CGM I still experience many episodes of hypoglycaemia [hypoglycemia] but knowing where my blood glucose levels actually are, and which direction they are travelling [traveling] I can decide how to treat my hypoglycaemia [hypoglycemia].

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    19. Todd Thedell

      I wanted a CGM for the longest time and finally had the insurance to get it 3 years ago. My only problem without my pump is the basal, I get much better results with the constant micro-dose than using a long-term shot.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    20. David & Kaleo of Team Nani

      That may be the hardest ? “You” have ever asked. It’s almost like : spleen or xray vision superpower, but I said cgm since it’s so helpful to know w/o finger sticks….but no pump means back to NPH insulin, which sounds brutal. And means harder regulation and more injections.

      “You” are mean, let’s pretend you never asked this.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Jneticdiabetic

        Haha! I agree this was a hard one.

        2
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
      2. Gustavo Avitabile

        There are several long-acting insulins, besides NPH. They are quite good.

        1
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    21. Andrew Aronoff

      I am a pump user (Medtronic 640G), but I’m currently taking a “pump vacation” to let my abdomen skin heal. I am maintaining acceptable BG control via my CGM, the Freestyle Libre 2, and MDI using both slow-acting (Lantus) and fast-acting (Humalog) insulin administered via pen injectors. The CGM provides me with trends, which is essential to maintaining good BG control. The hour I spend every two weeks waiting for recognition of a new sensor allows me to appreciate the CGM’s importance. My time-in-range has barely changed since I switched from the pump (80-85%) to MDI (75-85%). The only pump feature I miss is the square-wave bolus. It’s also nice to be able to bolus without using a pen, but that also favors frivolous food consumption. Between the pump and the CGM, there’s no contest – the CGM romps.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    22. Patricia Kilwein

      I had to start out using insulin pump only. The CGM was added about 2 years later. Insurance was the hold up. If I had to choose between the two, I’d go with CGM.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    23. Jneticdiabetic

      This one was hard. I chose keeping my pump over CGM. I’m insulin sensitive, and had lots of severe hypoglycemic episodes on injections. Having a large amount of long acting insulin on board that I can’t take back gives me flashbacks of those unpredictable times. Switched to pump therapy 21 years ago. Adjustable basal rates, ability to deliver microdoses & suspend insulin delivery made all the difference for me. CGMs have been icing on the cake I shouldn’t be eating. 😉

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    24. Sue Herflicker

      I chose the CGM because I like knowing what my sugars are with out testing. I rely on the arrows to help me make proper decisions! I hope the day never comes where I would have to choose. I love my tandem Control IQ along with my Dex 6.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    25. Dave Akers

      Using a pump BOUNDS you to 100yr old insulin technology. Injectable insulin will not get any faster. Inhaled insulin is simply revolutionary! It’s easier to use this and longer-acting basals than it is to manage a pump.

      And regarding my CGM… “From my cold Dead hands!” Is the only way I would maybe get rid of it!

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    26. AnitaS

      I put I would use the cgm only, however, I must admit that the pump definitely helps me especially during the night because I would have the dawn phenomena and wake up with those high blood sugars if I didn’t have the pump. Being able to increase my bolus as the night goes on takes care of that problem for me

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    27. Kristine Warmecke

      I currently use atSlim Control IQ. While I love my G6, I can give it up easier than my pump. I started pumping in Feb. 1997 with Medtronic 507, it was a different quality of company then, it changed my life for the better. I refuse to give it up & will never do so willingly.
      The couple of times I have had to be without, due to waiting for a replacement, I feel like a part of my body has been amputated.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    28. StPetie

      I would choose cgm right now. However, it was a difficult decision as I value them both so closely and highly. If asked that question tomorrow the answer may be different.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    29. NancyT

      I’ve lived with T1D for over 60 years. From injections and urine “dipsticks” to test glucose, to pumps and CGMs I remember years and years of being without either! You can live without these devices BUT I would not choose give up either device!

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    30. M C

      I was doing well with just the pump before adding in the assistance of a CGM, so I could easily give up the CGM again. I find the CGM makes testing/checking much more frequent than when just using the finger pricks for testing, but my A1C measures were just as constant with the CGM as without.
      Whereas the pump changed everything for me with regards to much better BG control… So I would not want to ever have to give up the pump.

      5
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Amanda Barras

        SAME!

        2
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    31. Dan Heller

      CGMs are the game-changer. T1D Exchange published a study in 2019 showing that CGM use outperforms non-CGM use by an order of magnitude. The study is titled, “State of Type 1 Diabetes Management and Outcomes from the T1D Exchange in 2016–2018”
      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7061293/
      Among CGM users, those using a pump slightly underperformed MDI users for ages > 26. (See Fig 3 chart.)

      According to the CDC, the MOST COMMON CAUSE of diabetic DKA is an insulin pump.
      https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetic-ketoacidosis.html

      I don’t mention these things because I’m against insulin pumps. Not at all–they’re great for people who understand them and know how to master their nuances. Most important, people have to love them. It’s a lifestyle choice, not a medical necessity. Too many T1D’s falsely believe pumps can do more for them than they actually can. People should not be *encouraged* to use a pump–rather, to propose it as a potential alternative to pens (ideally, bluetooth connected) if their lifestyles accommodate it.

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Jan Masty

        I absolutely agree. I’ve only been on a pump for a couple months, but so far it sure hasn’t made my life easier! I’ve been using dexcom for a few years and it definitely helps but also has issues. Sensors that quit often for sometimes a couple hours, or give wildly different numbers than my meter. We always have to be aware and ready to compensate, tech has a way to go to be truly lifechanging!

        1
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    32. Donna Clemons

      Hate my current pump. Medtronic 680 G. CGM prefer.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    33. Mary Ann Sayers

      I use BOTH a CGM AND PUMP!!! AND I WOULDN’T have it any other way!!! Having the CGM, I can see the changes taking place (bg) and the direction it’s heading ON MY TANDEM CONTROL IQ PUMP!!!
      I love having a closed-loop pump and CGM! I’ve come a long way, baby, since 1954 age 7!!! All my mother had was urine tests and monthly trips to the hospital for fasting bgs!!! 67years later I have an artificial pancreas, thank God.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    34. Mig Vascos

      I chose CGM. Ever since I was put on insulin therapy I dreamed of a day when I could tell what my BG was all the time. So…I wouldn’t give that up.
      I use a DEX G6 and a t:slim 2x with CIQ. THIS SYSTEM WOULD NOT WORK WITHOUT THE CGM.
      CIQ works wonderfully during the night I get almost a straight line during the night but that is not the case during the day when it shuts off the basal and then I run short later in the day and my sugar spikes. I often turn off the CIQ during parts of the day and I my control works well. So the pump still needs quite a bit of involvement on my part.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    35. Marie Cardinell-Daldry

      I still prefer the security of the instant results from a CGM. I’ve used 2 types of pumps. The Medtronic was terribly unreliable with it’s sensors.The Omnipod performed well but it has not been approved yet for a CGM

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    36. Clare Fishman

      I chose CGM because that is the device that changed my life the most. I went from being very reactive to being proactive. Preventing highs and lows rather than reacting to them. I use both in a hybrid closed loop system and would hate to give that up, but could manage ok with basal/bolus and mdi which I did for 38 years before pumping.

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    37. Bob Durstenfeld

      Data over delivery.

      6
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Ahh Life

        Best summary. Few words say it all. Good job!

        3
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    38. Amanda Barras

      The pump itself completely changed my life. I pumped without CGM for 5 years and just adding this therapy and stopped long acting insulin completely stopped my sever , catatonic, and combative low bloodsugar episodes and stopped the need for paramedic calls since 2007! The addition of a CGM just helped improve over all A1c due to me addressing highs and lows quicker. But I was able to keep my A1c below 7.0 with just the pump alone. I wouldn’t trade the pump therapy for anything!

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    39. Kim Murphy

      I had a pump for years without a CGM and had severe hypoglycemia several times. I am fortunate to be alive. I wouldn’t want to have to choose because the pump has allowed me to avoid other diabetes related complications. They are making so much progress with closed loop systems I am not sure how this is a relevant question. Anyone who has had a pump and a CGM wouldn’t want to give up either of them. If horrifies me to even contemplate living without one of these devices, because I probably wouldn’t live long without them.

      2
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    40. Karen LeBoulch

      Wouldn’t want to give up either pump or CGM. Hope I never have to choose.

      3
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    41. kim bullock

      That is great question. If I had to choose it would be a cgm .

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    42. Jodi Greenfield

      As much as I love my cgm, I would choose my pump because instead of injecting myself 3-4 times a day, I only have to inject the pod every 3 days. The PDM (pump’s remote control) will take blood testing strips and give me a reading that PDM calculates how much insulin I need for my meal, or for correction.
      I feel insulin dosage is more important than saving my fingers.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    43. Michael Ratrie

      I find questions like this offensive.

      The better question, IMO, is how can we get affordable access to any of the tools that are available?

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Karen Newe

        I love this question.

        1
        2 years ago Log in to Reply
    44. Rafaela

      I’ve never minded giving injections. What I did mind was my pump coming “unglued,” falling out, and having to get back on the phone to request an insulin refill, which I got sometimes, but not always.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    45. Donna Condi

      My Dexcom CGM is the lifesaver and makes living with diabetes easier while using my pump has lowered my A1c and raised my TIR.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    46. Lenora Ventura

      Visibility is everything. These days, insulin delivery comes secondary especially with the newer insulin varieties on the market.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    47. Ernie Richmann

      The pump because I can adjust basal rates and reduce, stop, or take more insulin quickly. I am very active most of my waking hours. It would be more challenging to make insulin adjustments while biking, walking, working.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    48. Clearblueskynm

      I used to always say cgm is the one I couldn’t live without and I still lean that way, however I had to be without my pump two separate occasions for 2 days and really missed it. I think I’ll say they are both equally important to my life.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    49. Sasha Wooldridge

      If forced to choose, it would be the CGM. I can’t do anything with a pump or injections without knowledge and the knowledge it gives is invaluable.

      That being said, I just switched to the t:Slim a couple months ago. Changed my life for the better for sure. I definitely wouldn’t want to be without it. 😉

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    50. Andrew Stewart

      CGM paired with a pump is a game changer. Once you’ve experienced the benefits of looping there’s no going back.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    51. LizB

      I would hate to have to choose but if forced I think I would take a CGM over the pump. I am hypo unaware so being able to see when my BG is dropping is really crucial.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    52. PamK

      I have never felt my pump settings are correct. So, I would definitely go with the CGM over the pump. I have tried checking my basal rates, etc on my own and every time I think I’ve got it right something goes wrong. I have not been able to find an endo in my area who can help with this. It’s very frustrating!

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    53. Laurie Tomer

      Why chose either or?? The technology is there to have both. The CGM makes the insulin pump that much smarter and more benefit to the user. I am a brittle diabetic and CGM is crucial for knowing where my blood sugar is going. The insulin pump is crucial for the very fine tuning of insulin delivery to try to keep me somewhat in good numbers.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    54. Bonnie Lundblom

      Hypoglycemia unawareness makes my Dexcom a priority above my pump.

      1
      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    55. brettsmith115

      This was a good question…difficult to answer. For 15 years I used a pump with no CGM. My control was good, not great. I then used the Medtronic CGM for a while, and saw minimal improvement to my control, but I also grew very frustrated by the daily regimen required by that CGM. Now I’m using the Dexcom G6 CGM (its been about 2 years) and I love it. My control has been better than ever, and the Dexcom has improved my daily regimen considerably! With all of that said, I can’t imagine NOT using a pump. However, it’s a question I’d like to ask my endocrinologist: “Could I maintain good control with injections and the Dexcom CGM?” If I could, I’d definitely choose a CGM over a pump. But, my guess is that my control is due to both my pump and my CGM working together. I’m very grateful for the technology advancements I’ve seen in my lifetime.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    56. Sherrie Johnson

      The pump changed my life 32 years ago and the CGM changed my life two years ago one without the other it’s a hard choice but I would pick the CGM just to know where I am at all times

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    57. Molly Jones

      I have to choose pump even though I would hate to give up CGM.
      I could not live with one basal rate/day or deliver it according to my needs.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    58. Chris Albright

      I guess it would be (for me) the pump. While the pump is not as useful without a CGM, I used a pump for many years without a linked CGM. While I am sure there are people out there that use a CGM with MDI’s, I don’t think that it is a popular combination.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    59. James Cheairs

      In my opinion, the advance in CGM technology is the most important game changer in terms of managing T1D. I was on MDI for over 19 years and started using a pump in 2017. I go back from time to time to MDI to take a break from the pump. I can certainly live without a pump if I were forced to only choose one of the two.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    60. Vivian Moon

      I have had very scary experiences with very low blood sugars, so a CGM has save me and my husband a Lot of Grief!

      2 years ago Log in to Reply
    61. Cheryl Seibert

      A CGM can keep you safe from hypoglycemia in the night. If you know your Sensor Glucose, you can easily use a smart pen instead of a pump. Preventing lows is more important than convenience. No pump does take away the ability to auto adjust basal and calculate bolus amounts though. Tough choice.

      2 years ago Log in to Reply

    For people who have experience with both an insulin pump and CGM: If you could only choose to use one of these devices, which one would you use? Share why in the comments! Cancel reply

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