Type 1 Tips: Bleeders

You know we all HAVE to bleed, but should my sites be bleeding?

As with most things in the diabetes world, bleeders are on a very fluid “case-by-case” basis. A little bit of blood with an injection is completely normal. Apply some pressure until bleeding stops, and depending on the severity of the bleeding, keep an eye on your blood sugars for the next few hours to make sure you got your full dose. Similarly, bleeding CGMs are completely normal and usually not an issue. As long as bleeding is not profuse, the site is comfortable, and readings are accurate, it’s usually fine to keep it in. As with everything, use your discretion and err on the side of caution.

The one situation where bleeders almost certainly pose a problem is with infusion sites. In the case of profuse bleeding, if blood is coming into the tubing insulin probably isn’t coming out of it. Err on the side of caution and switch it out.

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At its core, proper type 1 diabetes management is composed of a handful of elements: blood glucose control and insulin management, exercise, nutrition and support. Knowing first-hand the intricacies of living with Type 1 Diabetes, the team at Touched by Type 1 has created the D-Box.