Diabetes patients must routinely check their blood sugar levels to avoid problems due to either high sugar or low sugar. Then the question becomes, how to do it accurately all of the time?This brings CGM into the play that allows people to monitor their sugar levels with complete accuracy.
But what is a CGM? CGM is a glucose level monitoring device highly recommended by healthcare professionals for patients to keep track of sugar levels. Let’s explore everything about Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM).
Table OF Content
What is a CGM?
A Continuous Glucose Monitor is a small wearable gadget that monitors a person’s blood sugar day and night. Unlike blood tests that report a single point in time, a CGM offers information about glucose changes as they happen during the day. The majority of CGMs include:
- Doctors install a small sensor beneath the skin, most often on the abdomen, buttocks or upper arm area.
- A device that wirelessly sends the user’s glucose readings
- A gadget or app that shows the information RETII sends
On different devices, your readings might be checked every 1 to 5 minutes, and some can send a notification when your blood glucose levels are too high or too low.
History and Evolution of CGMs
To put the advancement of CGMs in perspective, it is always useful to understand where we started.
Early Beginnings (1990s–2000s)
When CGMs first began, they were bulky, inconvenient, expensive, and required frequent manual calibrations. CGMs were a novel idea, but not widely used, because of their accuracy and user discomfort.
Breakthroughs in Wearable Technology
In the late 2000s to early 2010s, wearing technology improved, and CGMs went through massive improvements, including:
- Devices that didn’t require manual calibrations every day.
- Thinner, lighter, more comfortable sensors.
- Integration into smartphones and health apps.
These major changes to CGMs brought them into common usage and they became increasingly more intuitive to use when managing diabetes.
Modern CGMs: Where We Are Today
The newest CGMs, including Dexcom G7, Freestyle Libre 2/3, Medtronic Guardian Connect, and Eversense, are- much smaller, less invasive and more features such as:
- Customizable alerts for highs and lows
- Remote data sharing alerts for caregivers
- Integration and data sharing with insulin pumps for auto insulin delivery.
Overall, CGMs are now providing users with real-time control over their health.
Key Benefits of the Continuous Glucose Monitor
Below are some crucial benefits of continuous glucose monitor to track glucose sugar level within moments:
- Easy sugar level tracking
Being able to check your levels each day quickly is one of the main reasons why people choose CGM devices. Using a CGM means you don’t have to measure multiple times daily with another gadget.
- Simple to install
One reason CGM devices are popular is that they’re easy to install on the arm. Preventative care can be taken with daily glucose tests, all by simply placing a mini-probe on your skin.
- Consistent tracking
A CGM will allow you to monitor your blood sugar levels much more evenly throughout your day. It helps to have your glucose checked, both before and after meals, to improve your diet.
- Reduced Finger-Pricks
Many CGMs will eliminate scheduled finger-stick testing, making diabetes care easier and less stressful.
- Improved Quality of Life
Many CGMs will monitor glucose as it is occurring with alerts and standing data trends; represented in graphs, GCMS will help avoid unforeseen drops or spikes in sugar, naturally reducing anxiety.
Who Should Use a CGM?
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) provide worthwhile advantages to a diverse population of individuals beyond only those managed by insulin.
Type 1 Diabetes
People diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes enjoy the biggest benefit from CGMs. The real-time data provided by CGMs are valuable when trying to control insulin doses, limit episodes of hypoglycemia, and when making healthy and safer choices during activities or sleeping.
Type 2 Diabetes
In many cases, people with Type 2 diabetes use CGMs to identify glucose patterns that are made easily available by monitoring on a continuous basis as opposed to a fingerstick test. Using continuous glucose data leads to more informed decisions on food patterns, planned activities, and adjustments related to medications.
Gestational and Pre-Diabetes
Pregnant women or people diagnosed with gestational diabetes, or people diagnosed with pre-diabetes who are at risk for Type 2 diabetes use CGMs for early intervention and controlled levels of glucose – a critical strategy for good health for both fetus and mother during pregnancy.
Athletes and Health Enthusiasts
Even when persons do not have a medical need, CGMs, now available to fitness enthusiasts and biohacking individuals, help improve metabolic recovery. These wider audiences can now monitor how exercise, dietary patterns, and fasting will impact their glucose performance.
With CGM to the Rescue, these people can easily keep an eye on their blood sugar and possibly avoid major episodes of low blood sugar.
Common Challenges and Solutions While Using CGM
CGMs are not without challenges. Here’s what users often face and how to manage them:
Skin Irritation
Redness, itching, or adhesive allergy can occur. Try barrier sprays, hypoallergenic tapes, or rotate sensor sites.
Device Adhesion
Loss of adhesive is common during sports or water exposure. Use additional waterproof barriers or skin-protective patches to enhance grip.
Data Disconnection
Bluetooth issues can cause gaps. Keep your phone nearby. Some systems require regular OTA firmware updates.
Cost and Coverage
CGMs can be costly without insurance. Check your policy, as many providers (including Medicare/Medicaid) now offer substantial coverage.
Conclusion
Managing diabetes includes carefully keeping blood sugar levels in control. By providing a convenient way to check blood sugar, a CGM supports users in this task.
Many studies have found that wearing these devices may help people manage their blood sugar, reduce hypos and live a healthier, happier life.
If a CGM sounds like something you’d like to try, you should consult a doctor about whether it’s right for you and what benefits it could offer.
Wondering if CGM is right for your health journey?
Book your FREE personalized consultation with the HealifyNow care team!
Our team will help you consider options, clarify the technology, and start measuring smarter—not harder! Contact us today at HealifyNow!
FAQs
How long does a CGM sensor last?
In general, a sensor lasts anywhere from 7–14 days, whereas an implantable CGM, such as the Eversense, can last from 90–180 days.
Can I go swimming with my CGM?
Yes, most devices are water-resistant. Although, for best outcomes, you will want to limit the duration underwater and/or use a waterproof patch or cover.
Do CGMs replace finger-prick tests?
Some models do replace finger-prick tests, while others may have more limited finger calibration. Always remember to follow the guidelines associated with your device.
Are CGMs safe?
Yes. All CGMs are FDA-approved, clinically validated, and extensively used. Side effects are rare and only typically involve skin sensitivity.
