4 FAQs about water activities

Water Activities

We've been talking a lot this summer about summer vacations, repelling down waterfalls and preventing moisture damage to your pump. Today, we welcome back Amy Kellerman, a product specialist on our insulin delivery marketing team, to continue on that theme to talk about what to do with your pump and CGM for different water situations. 

It's that time of year when we all want to get out of the summer heat and go for a refreshing swim. However, you might be wondering what you can and can't do with your insulin pump and CGM in water situations. 

While manufacturers design insulin pumps to be sturdy (Medtronic pumps are actually made from the same material as motorcycle helmets!), any durable pump can develop tiny cracks that make it susceptible to water damage. Often you can't even see these micro-cracks, but they're there thanks to all those little bumps and drops that come with living with your pump every day. 

That's why we make our pumps water resistant, meaning they can withstand rain or accidental splashes, but you should avoid submerging your pump in water. 

So, what does that mean for your daily life? Check out answers to some of your most frequently asked questions on water activities.

What do I do with my pump when I take a shower?

Hopefully, this is your most common water activity :-). As you probably already know, just disconnect the pump and belt out your favorite shower song without worrying about possible water damage due to micro-cracks (or trying to find a place to put your pump).

What should I do with my pump when I go swimming?

Since your Medtronic pump is splash proof, but not waterproof, you don't want to submerge it in water. If you are going to swim, surf, snorkel or enjoy any other water activity, disconnect from your insulin pump for up to one hour and put it someplace safe. After all, your pump is an important, expensive and sensitive piece of medical equipment. You don't want to lose it at the bottom of a lake or ocean! So, splash freely! And if you're new to the big waves, go see our favorite California girl, Karmel Allison for some first-time surfer/pumper tips. Of course, while you're disconnected, be sure to test often and be prepared with both fast-acting insulin and glucose. And talk with your healthcare provider to establish a plan if you're going to regularly disconnect for swimming or other activities.

What if I get stuck in the rain with my pump?

If you get stuck in one of those balmy August t-storms, just dry off your pump when you get inside and continue to use it normally.

What should I do with my CGM while in the water?

Once the MiniLink transmitter (the part shaped like a seashell) and sensor are connected, they form a water-tight seal to a depth of 8 feet for up to 30 minutes. So you can shower and swim without removing them. But you'll want to avoid taking really hot baths or soaking in a jacuzzi, since the really hot water can reduce the sensor's life. The Guardian® REAL-Time monitor is not waterproof so you should store it someplace safe during water activities. Your pump or Guardian® REAL-Time monitor won't display current CGM data if it's out of range (beyond 6 feet). However, the MiniLink does have 40 minutes of memory that will be communicated to the pump once you're back in range (whether or not you're connected to the pump). If you're away for more than 40 minutes, you will see a data gap when you upload to CareLink. To sum it up, enjoy these last few weeks of summer! Go body surfing, enjoy the water park, jump off the high dive or do some laps - without worrying about micro-cracks or feeding your precious pump to the fishies.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

- Medtronic Diabetes insulin infusion pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems and associated components are limited to sale by or on the order of a physician and should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional familiar with the risks associated with the use of these systems. - Successful operation of the insulin infusion pumps and/or continuous glucose monitoring systems requires adequate vision and hearing to recognize alerts and alarms.

Medtronic Diabetes Insulin Infusion Pumps

- Insulin pump therapy is not recommended for individuals who are unable or unwilling to perform a minimum of four blood glucose tests per day. - Insulin pumps use rapid-acting insulin. If your insulin delivery is interrupted for any reason, you must be prepared to replace the missed insulin immediately.

Medtronic Diabetes Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems

- The information provided by CGM systems is intended to supplement, not replace, blood glucose information obtained using a home glucose meter. A confirmatory fingerstick is required prior to treatment. - Insertion of a glucose sensor may cause bleeding or irritation at the insertion site. Consult a physician immediately if you experience significant pain or if you suspect that the site is infected. Please visit MedtronicDiabetes.com/isi for complete safety information.

 

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Submitted by Karen (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

When I return to the locker room after swimming laps, my pump is screaming with a lost sensor alert. Is there a way to stop this?

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Karen (not verified)

You may receive the Lost Sensor alarm to let you know when your insulin pump hasn’t received a signal from the MiniLink transmitter for more than 40 minutes. We know it may be a bit noisy, but it’s there to let you know that your pump and MiniLink aren’t communicating. Once you’re back in range, you can follow these steps to clear the alarm and begin receiving sensor readings. http://www.minimed.com/help/alerts/sensor-alerts/#lost-sensor.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to give the HelpLine a ring.

Submitted by Glenn (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

new to using the minilink real-time CGM,and getting red sores on my stomach in the shape of the minilink battery.After connecting the sensor I tape the device to my stomach.Any advice?
Glenn

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Glenn (not verified)

Sorry to hear that Glenn! I’ve forwarded this to the 24-Hour HelpLine. They’ll follow-up with you shortly to see how they can help.

Submitted by Diana (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

My son uses the Silhouette infusion set. We were on vacation in the Dominican Republic. Our son went swimming in the ocean a lot. Because we didn't know that the salt water dissolved the adhesive of his set, we went through them rapidly and started running out within days. After a lot of texting with our pump trainer (love her!) we we're able to find out where to buy new supplies on the island. They did not have the Silhouette in stock so they gave us the Quick set. We didn't mind as long as we could finish our vacation. We didn't like the Quick set because it had a lot of canula kinks and No-Delivery alarms. However, the adhesive on the Quick set seemed to stay intact in the ocean which was awesome! If there is way for you to produce the Silhouette with the Quick set adhesive, that would make it the perfect infusion set for the summer and ocean fun!

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Diana (not verified)

Thanks for the feedback Diana! I’ll be sure to pass along to the product team.

Submitted by Dudley (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Why are the pumps not a little more water friendly, anyway? There are many, less important, electrical devices that are submersible and waterproof.

Submitted by Tammie (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

For anyone else having the sore from the glucose monitor. Mine was an allergic reaction to the plastic. I place an iv3000 down and then insert just beside it and then when I hook up the battery part the tape is between me and the plastic. Gas worked for over two years now!

Submitted by William (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hello! I just got my pump in and am going to start using it in a few days. Question. What happens to the tape around the quickset if you take a shower or swim? I know to disconnect the pump but wouldn't the tape around the set get wet and come off taking the catheter (sp?) with it?

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by William (not verified)

William, For normal day-to-day activities like showering, the adhesive part of the infusion set and cannula typically stay in place when it becomes wet after you have disconnected your insulin pump. Once you try the pump you’ll have a better idea of how well they stick on, but if you find you want added protection for the infusion set when disconnected you might want to try additional tape like the IV3000 for infusion sets, which you can find here: http://my.medtronicdiabetes.com/ec_HomePage
(Click on Infusion Set IV3000 in the banner at the top.)

Submitted by Donna+Harris (not verified) on

In reply to by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified)

I am now wearing the 770G. The clip is terrible. Please change the clip back to the one that allows you to turn the pump around. I am constantly knocking my pump off, getting stabbed in the stomach or having to move it around to the side. The clip is also hard to remove/replace for someone with weak hands. It is very inconvenient. At least provide the option. I’m willing to pay for it. Thanks so much.

Submitted by Nicole (not verified) on

In reply to by Donna+Harris (not verified)

We appreciate the feedback and will make sure to share with our teams. In the meantime, you may find the pouches/cases found here: http://bit.ly/2npfdM2 might be a better fit for you.

Submitted by Beth B (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

My ankle and hip hurts really bad, and i want to take a nice hot bath. Will the soap and warm water hurt my infusion set?( i would obviously disconnect) Do i have to take off my infusion set and redo it after my hot bath???

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Beth B (not verified)

Beth, I’m sorry to hear you’re in pain. The warm water and soap should not harm your infusion set, but as you said, be sure to disconnect before taking a bath. One thing you might want to keep an eye on is if your infusion set is ever peeling up or becoming loose, then it is recommended to put a piece of tape over your infusion set before activities like a bath or exercise to make sure it is secure. See this tape for an example http://my.medtronicdiabetes.com/tapes--prep-wipes/infusion-set-iv3000/t…. This is just optional but might help in the future. Feel better!

Submitted by Connie Banks (not verified) on

In reply to by Beth B (not verified)

Bet h I swim Shower and bathe with my infusion set and have never had a problem with the tape not sticking

Submitted by Mik ThunderCloud (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I have had NO problems swimming, kayaking, canoeing, showering, etc. with my infusion sets. I always carry my pump in a waterproof "Dry Box" and hook up occassionally when dry to catch up on my insulin. The CGMS sensors are yet another story. It seems that there is simply no way to secure them effectively. Believe me, I've tried a lot of different products. It seems the only way to deal with it is waterproof tape across the sensor and link, then wear something tight to cover it. I wear compression shorts and T's. Then when you get dry, replace the tape.

My biggest problem seems to be how much I sweat! Almost nothing can stick with me through all that, especially when I am swimming or working out heavy. I try to time REAL heavy activity around set changes so it doesn't cost too much to waste a half days worth of insulin or so....

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Mik ThunderCloud (not verified)

Hi Mik, thanks for your comment. For information on tape tips, check out the Help & Support section of our website here: http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/support/insertion-site-management/tapi…. If you’re still having trouble after reviewing the taping methods, let me know and I’ll be happy to connect you with someone to try to help.

Submitted by Jan (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

For those of you having problems keeping your sensor attached or allergic reactions to the transmitter against your skin, here's what I have come up with to keep Everything intact and functioning...I use an IV3000 patch under the transmitter and a 3M tegaderm 1624W over the sensor and transmitter to hold it in place. I've spent hours in the pool and the ocean with no problems of it coming loose or unstuck. I also sweat like a pig in the summer, going through several sets of clothes and underwear, but the sensor and transmitter stay on with no problems using the above mentioned products.

Submitted by Nikki (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

The adhesive on my infusion set tends to weaken after I swim or shower. Should I use reinforcements, or is there any way to prevent this?

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Nikki (not verified)

Hi Nikki. That’s a great question! Here is a link with some key taping methods you may find helpful - http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/customer-support/insertion-site-manage…. If you have any more questions, or if you’d like me to connect you with a member of my team to help with taping tips, please let me know.

Submitted by Jack (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hi
Having problems with lots of tiny bubbles appearing in the reservoir during the day. I wondered if these could appear when the pump is removed for showering. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

Submitted by Sara Tilleskjor (not verified) on

In reply to by Jack (not verified)

Hi Jack. I’m sorry to hear you’re experiencing issues with bubbles in your reservoir during the day. Just as a reminder, using cold insulin can cause air bubbles in the reservoir and tubing. If your insulin is stored in the refrigerator, allow it to reach room temperature before filling your reservoir. I will have someone from my team contact you to try and help. In the meantime, you may find this helpful: http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/customer-support/device-settings-and-f…. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Submitted by Dgardok (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I have used pumps since 1994 and have some stories...mostly good!! I've hiked Grand Canyon rim to rim, hiked Long's Peak (almost all the way!), Hell Roaring Creek in Yellowstone just to name a few. What I have missed is water sports. With my first pump I was able to go offshore using a waterproof sports pack. Now with the newer pumps I am using, I can no longer find a waterproof pack to use while staying connected. I also miss river kayak trips where I can stay connected. I am very brittle and get into trouble if I disconnect for more than one hour and some river trips will not allow stopping that often to reconnect and pump. There has got to be a way. Help!!

Submitted by Sara Tilleskjor (not verified) on

In reply to by Dgardok (not verified)

Dgardok, it sounds like you’ve been on some really great hiking adventures! Since the insulin pump is water resistant and not waterproof, you will need to disconnect from your pump for water activities. I recommend talking with your healthcare provider to establish a plan if you’re going to disconnect from your insulin pump for extended periods of time. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with.

Submitted by Kathy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I need product suggestions for extra taping of my new Elite CGM sensor/transmitter. The pressure sensitive tape that comes with the sensor does not hold for me and the over tape itches, leaves red patches, and does not last. I can live with the skin irritation but keeping the sensor in place is a must. Can I use Hypafix tape? Does it stick for 6 days?

Submitted by Sara Tilleskjor (not verified) on

In reply to by Kathy (not verified)

Hi Kathy. I’m sorry to hear you’re having trouble with taping your sensor. We recommend only using the sensor overtape that is provided in your Enlite sensor box, as it’s customized specifically for the Enlite sensor. However, since the sensor overtape is causing irritation to your skin, we recommend speaking with your healthcare professional about other adhesive options. Here is a link with some key taping methods you may find helpful in the meantime: http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/customer-support/insertion-site-manage…. If you have any more questions or if you’d like me to connect you with a member of my team to help with taping tips, please let me know.

Submitted by steve (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

can I go diving with my infusion set in and my transmitter in

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by steve (not verified)

That’s a great question, Steve. You can leave your infusion set in place for swimming, showering, and bathing. Your CGM transmitter, when connected with your glucose sensor, is watertight to a depth of 8 feet for up to 30 minutes. To participate in water activities, you can easily disconnect from your insulin pump and keep it in
a dry place while keeping your CGM transmitter connected to your sensor. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Submitted by Flo (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

This is the first time I looked at this site to read those comments. I have learned so much from everyone comments.
I have been w the Medtronic insulin pump now for 2 years, and never knew how to take a shower with it on. I thank you everyone who wrote those comments, they were all for me as a teaching tool. Thank u all
Flo

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Flo (not verified)

Flo, I’m happy to hear you’ve found the communities comments helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions about bathing or swimming with your insulin pump.

Submitted by Suzanne (not verified) on

In reply to by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified)

What would happen if you forget to cover the infusion set when showering?

Submitted by Nicole (not verified) on

In reply to by Suzanne (not verified)

Great question, Suzanne. While "shower caps" are included in each infusion set box, it's not required to cover your infusion set when showering. Keep in mind, depending on which model pump you are using, you may need to disconnect when showering.

Submitted by T.C. (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Is it possible to stay connected to the pump and take a bath? Also if I take breaks and dry the CGM transmitter and sensor, will this prolong the alotted 30 minutes?

Thanks!

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by T.C. (not verified)

Hi T.C. When bathing, showering, swimming, or participating in any other water activity, always disconnect from your pump and reconnect after you’re out of the water. You can use the quick release feature available on most of the infusion sets to easily disconnect from your pump, leaving only the infusion site in place for swimming, showering and bathing. If you are planning on disconnecting your pump for more than an hour, be sure to talk to your healthcare team about a backup plan.

The CGM transmitter, when connected with a glucose sensor, is watertight to a depth of 8 feet for up to 30 minutes. You can swim, shower or bathe with the transmitter and sensor connected. When disconnected from your pump, the transmitter will hold up to 40 minutes of data. So you’re aware, when you upload your device to CareLink Personal, there will be a “data gap” with missing information if you are disconnected for more than 40 minutes.

Submitted by T.C. (not verified) on

In reply to by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified)

Okay. Just to be sure, even if my tubing is long enough to let my pump set outside of a bathtub away from the water, I should still disconnect?

Thanks

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by T.C. (not verified)

T.C. Yes, you should still disconnect when bathing.

Submitted by Shannon (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I am curious to know if there is any information about the affect of salt water pools on the adhesive for the mio? We know to disconnect for up to 1 hour, but I am curious if it will affect the overall adhesion. We already use an additional tegraderm around the white area of the set.

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Shannon (not verified)

Hi Shannon. The Mio adhesive should be fine in salt water pools as long as your pump is disconnected (for up to one hour). If you’d like, you could add extra tape for additional protection. Please let me know if you need more help, or would like to discuss this in more detail and I’ll connect you with someone from my team.

Submitted by NAncy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

is it possible to use a hot tub with the enlite?

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by NAncy (not verified)

Nancy, the CGM transmitter, when connected with a glucose sensor, is watertight to a depth of 8 feet (2.4 meters) for up to 30 minutes. You can swim, shower or bathe with the transmitter and sensor connected. If the temperature of a hot tub, steam room, or sauna greater than 104˚F, you should not use it.

Submitted by Greg Bishop (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I have a swim/spa that I use every night for about 30 minutes, is there a temperature I shouldn't go over? If I can't use the swim spa at all, I won't be using the CGM or 630 pump.

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Greg Bishop (not verified)

Greg, Medtronic pumps are designed to withstand temperatures up to 108Fahrentheit. The temperature threshold of your insulin will vary by brand, type, and concentrations, so best to talk with your insulin manufacturer for that information.

Submitted by David Sienko (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I used the old CGM before the Enlite and hated it. I'm about to try the Enlite, but I'm a diver and generally dive 2 -4 hours a week. I dive wet. The depth is 4- 20 feet. I haven't had a problem with the infusion set. But what can I do with with CGM sensor? Is there a cap like on the infusion set?

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by David Sienko (not verified)

David, I'm going to have someone from my team reach out to discuss the specifics with you.

Submitted by Duane (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Ok i unhook pump from reservoir and forget to put cap on does this affect or hurt anything ?

Submitted by Duane (not verified) on

In reply to by Duane (not verified)

in shower forgot that to lol

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Duane (not verified)

Hi Duane - are you referring to the infusion set? If you could clarify, that would be great!

Submitted by Duane (not verified) on

In reply to by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified)

yes water cap on infusion set

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Duane (not verified)

Thanks for the clarification Duane! The water cap is optional. You can use it for extra protection from outside surroundings like the beach, but it's not required.

Submitted by Joy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I'm going to purchase a sauna to help keep my body detoxified. I'll disconnect my 630 While I'm in, but I'm wondering if there are any tips or tricks for my CGM that might be useful.


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