| Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website. |
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| Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives. |
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Insulin PumpsAn insulin pump delivers tiny amounts of insulin into the blood throughout the day and night. This reduces hypoglycaemia (hypos) and can improve blood glucose levels. You attach the pump to your skin. Insulin flows into your body through a tiny tube under your skin. The tube is replaced every 2 to 3 days and the pump is moved to another part of your body. It delivers a set amount of background insulin. You then add your extra mealtime insulin using the pump. A pump can give you more flexibility with what you eat and help you have more stable blood glucose levels. But a pump might not suit everyone. You can buy an insulin pump yourselfA pump costs around £2,000 to £3,000. It should last 4 to 8 years. You'll get your insulin on prescription as normal. When pumps are funded by the NHSThe National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends an insulin pump if:
Your consultant may recommend a pump if this is happening and you can show you're:
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| OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic. | | |
| Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com. | ||