Managing diabetes can be an exhausting, never-ending cycle—especially for patients who rely on multiple daily injections and still struggle to keep their blood sugar levels in range. But for one 75-year-old patient, technology changed everything.
“This patient had been on insulin for years,” says Dr. Lindsey VanDyke, DO, Board-Certified Endocrinologist in Texas. “Despite trying different options, including inhaled insulin, she was still stuck in a cycle of highs, lows, and frustration. But once we found the right approach, her numbers improved dramatically—almost overnight.”
Let’s dive into her story, the challenges she faced, and how a simple but powerful adjustment in her diabetes management led to life-changing results.
The Diabetes Struggle: A Constant Roller Coaster
For years, this patient had been using insulin, but her blood sugar control was never consistent. No matter what adjustments were made, she found herself constantly battling extreme highs and lows.
“Her Dexcom sensor was going off all the time,” explains Dr. VanDyke. “‘You’re high, you’re high, you’re high’—that was the constant message she was getting. And when she tried to correct it, she would crash down. It was an exhausting roller coaster.”
She had tried various insulin delivery methods, including inhaled insulin, in hopes of making daily management easier. Unfortunately, that didn’t work either.
“It was just too big of a burden for her to manage all these injections per day,” says Dr. VanDyke. “She was getting burned out, and nothing was giving her the stability she needed.”
The Turning Point: A New Diabetes Management Approach
Despite her frustration, the patient wasn’t eager to embrace diabetes technology.
“She did not want an artificial pancreas or any kind of high-tech option,” Dr. VanDyke recalls. “She was hesitant about using new devices, which is a common concern for many patients.”
But after years of struggling, she agreed to try an insulin pump—a small device that delivers precise amounts of insulin throughout the day.
“All we did was get her pump plugged in and started,” says Dr. VanDyke. “And within a week, her blood sugar levels had completely transformed.”
The Results: From 23% to 78% Time in Range in Just 7 Days
Before the insulin pump, this patient spent only 23% of her day in a healthy blood sugar range. Even on her “best days,” she only managed to hit 35% in range—a frustratingly low number.
But just seven days after starting the pump, everything changed:
✅ Time in Range increased from 23% to 78%
✅ Blood sugar highs & crashes dramatically reduced
✅ Less stress, fewer alarms, and better overall health
“She has never, ever had this kind of great control before,” Dr. VanDyke says. “And we’re still in the early phases of adjusting her pump, meaning her numbers are only going to get better.”
What This Means for Others with Diabetes
This case highlights an important message for anyone struggling with diabetes:
✔️ Even if you’ve tried multiple approaches, there may still be a better solution
✔️ Diabetes technology doesn’t have to be overwhelming
✔️ Insulin pumps can offer an easier, more flexible way to manage blood sugar
“If you’re requiring multiple daily injections and struggling with control, an insulin pump might be worth a trial,” advises Dr. VanDyke. “Even if technology seems intimidating, you might be surprised at how well you do—and how much easier life becomes.”
Final Thoughts: The Future of Diabetes Management
Diabetes is a complex condition, and no single treatment works for everyone. But as technology continues to advance, more patients are finding relief and control in ways they never imagined possible.
“This patient’s success story is proof that better diabetes management is within reach,” says Dr. VanDyke. “The right tools, the right approach, and a little patience can completely change the game.”
If you or a loved one are struggling with diabetes, consider talking to your endocrinologist about advanced management options. It could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
📢 Want to learn more about diabetes care and hormone health? Follow Dr. Lindsey VanDyke, DO, for expert insights!