For individuals with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels can be a challenging and continuous task. Traditional methods like finger-prick blood tests provide important information, but they only offer snapshots of glucose levels at specific points in time. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology has revolutionised diabetes management, providing real-time, dynamic data that can help individuals better understand and manage their glucose levels. In this blog, we will explore what CGM is, how it works, its benefits, and why it has become an essential tool for diabetes management. We will also highlight popular CGM devices, including the Dexcom G7, and discuss how they improve quality of life for people with diabetes.
Before we continue, At Type Strong, we support individuals with diabetes by providing innovative products like our FreeStyle Libre, Medtronic Guardian & Dexcom G7 adhesive patches. Choose the best CGM for your needs and enhance your experience with our high-quality adhesive patches today!
Let's get started.
What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a technology that tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night, offering a complete picture of your blood sugar trends. Unlike traditional finger-prick tests, which measure glucose levels at a single point in time, CGMs provide ongoing, real-time data. This allows people with diabetes to see how their glucose levels fluctuate and respond to different activities, meals, and even stress.
CGM devices consist of three main components:
1. Sensor: A small sensor is inserted just under the skin, typically on the abdomen or arm. It measures the glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which surrounds your cells, and sends the data to the transmitter.
2. Transmitter: The transmitter is connected to the sensor and sends glucose level data to a display device like a smartphone, smartwatch, or a dedicated CGM receiver.
3. Display Device: The display device receives and shows the glucose data in real-time, often with trends and patterns displayed as graphs. Most CGMs also offer alerts for high or low glucose levels.
How Does CGM Work?
CGM sensors measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which is a fluid that surrounds cells in the tissue under your skin. Although there is a slight delay in the reading compared to a blood glucose test (usually about five minutes), CGM devices offer an accurate representation of glucose trends. These systems send glucose readings every 1-5 minutes, providing up to 288 readings in a 24-hour period.
Modern CGMs, such as the Dexcom G7, are easy to wear and typically last 10 to 14 days before needing a new sensor. The real-time tracking and alerts that CGMs provide help people take action in response to high or low glucose levels, avoiding dangerous extremes.
Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitoring
1. Real-Time Monitoring
One of the greatest benefits of CGM technology is the ability to track glucose levels in real-time. This provides users with continuous feedback about their blood sugar levels and helps them respond quickly to changes.
2. Fewer Finger Pricks
While finger-prick testing is still necessary for calibration in some CGM systems, CGM drastically reduces the number of daily finger pricks required to manage diabetes. Many CGMs, such as the Dexcom G7, no longer require calibration via finger sticks, making them much more convenient.
3. Trends and Patterns
CGMs provide insight into how different factors like food, exercise, stress, and sleep affect glucose levels. This data allows users to make informed decisions about insulin dosing, meal timing, and physical activity.
4. Alerts for High and Low Blood Sugar
CGMs can be set to alert users when their glucose levels are too high (hyperglycaemia) or too low (hypoglycaemia). These alerts can be lifesaving, particularly for those with hypo unawareness, who may not feel symptoms of low blood sugar until it becomes severe.
5. Better Long-Term Health
By helping people maintain more stable glucose levels, CGMs reduce the risk of long-term diabetes complications, such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues.
6. Remote Monitoring
Some CGM systems allow users to share their data with family members, caregivers, or healthcare providers in real-time. This can be particularly helpful for parents of children with diabetes or for older adults who may need assistance managing their condition.
Popular CGM Devices
1. Dexcom G7
The Dexcom G7 is one of the most advanced CGM devices available today. It offers real-time glucose monitoring without the need for finger-stick calibrations. With a 60% smaller sensor than its predecessor, the G7 is more discreet and comfortable to wear. It also provides faster warm-up times (about 30 minutes), and users can set customizable high and low alerts. The Dexcom G7 integrates easily with smartphones and smartwatches, making it highly convenient for users on the go.
2. Freestyle Libre
The Freestyle Libre is another popular CGM option. It features a sensor that can be worn for up to 14 days, and while it doesn’t offer real-time glucose alerts like the Dexcom, it allows users to scan their sensor anytime to get a reading. The Libre is a more affordable CGM option but lacks some of the advanced features found in systems like the Dexcom G7.
3. Medtronic Guardian Connect
The Medtronic Guardian Connect CGM offers real-time glucose monitoring and predictive alerts for highs and lows up to 60 minutes in advance. The Guardian Connect integrates with the Medtronic insulin pump, creating a hybrid closed-loop system.
Why is CGM Essential for Diabetes Management?
For stable blood sugar control is essential for preventing complications. CGMs like the Dexcom G7 make diabetes management more intuitive and less stressful. With 24/7 real-time glucose data, people can manage their condition with greater precision and confidence. Additionally, CGMs offer peace of mind by providing early warnings for extreme glucose levels, helping users avoid dangerous highs and lows.
Moreover, CGM technology is particularly valuable for those with hypoglycaemia unawareness, a condition in which people do not feel the typical symptoms of low blood sugar. CGMs can send alerts well before glucose levels become dangerously low, allowing for early intervention.
How CGM and Type Strong Products Work Together
For individuals using CGMs, securing the sensor is crucial, especially during exercise or other physical activities. At Type Strong, we offer high-quality adhesive patches designed to keep CGMs like the Dexcom G7 in place securely and comfortably. Our patches provide a reliable solution to prevent sensor dislodgement, ensuring that your CGM works effectively throughout its wear period.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology has transformed the way people manage diabetes, providing real-time, actionable data that helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Whether you're using a Dexcom G7, Freestyle Libre, or another CGM device, the benefits of CGM are clear: fewer finger pricks, better glucose control, and peace of mind. We’re proud to support your journey by offering products that enhance your CGM experience, keeping your sensor secure no matter where life takes you.
Sources:
1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2023). Continuous Glucose Monitoring. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes/continuous-glucose-monitoring
2. American Diabetes Association. (2023). Continuous Glucose Monitoring. Retrieved from https://diabetes.org/advocacy/cgm-continuous-glucose-monitors
3. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Blood sugar. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/blood-sugar/art-20046628