What is CGM? Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can be lifesaving equipment for people with any type of diabetes. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a means of measuring glucose levels continuously throughout the day and night, and alert you before you begin experiencing low or high blood sugar levels. Seeing glucose levels in real time can assist you to make more informed decisions throughout the day about how to adjust your food, physical activity, and medicines.
A Continuous Glucose Monitoring System sensor is wrapped separately to the pump, inserted beneath the skin, and estimates the level of glucose in the interstitial fluid (fluid in the tissue). The sensor is disposable and replaced according to manufacturer instructions. Basically, CGMs are a less invasive technique for measuring glucose. CGM can be utilized whether you wear an insulin pump or use injections for your insulin delivery.
How a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) work
CGM is a way to measure glucose levels in real-time throughout the day and night. A CGM works by a tiny sensor implanted beneath your skin, habitually on your belly or arm. The sensor measures your interstitial glucose level, which is the glucose found in the fluid between the cells. It is connected to a transmitter that sends the information via wireless radio frequency to a separate device, which you might carry in a pocket or purse. Some CGMs send information directly to a smartphone or tablet.
Now anyone can use the devices as part of at-home diabetes care. You can download data on your smartphone, or computer to see patterns and trends in your sugar levels. The data can help you and your physician make the safest plan for managing your diabetes–
- An exercise program that’s best for you
- How significant insulin you should use
- The number of meals and snacks you require each day
- The accurate types and dosages of medications
Advantages of a CGM
CGMs have special specialties that work with data from your glucose readings:
- A notification can sound while your glucose level reaches too low or too high.
- You can note your meals, medicines and physical activity, in a CGM device.
- You can download data to a smart device or computer to more efficiently see your glucose trends.
Reputed Brand CGM
- Dexcom
- Animas
- Abbott Freestyle
- Medtronic Real-Time
Continuous Glucose Monitoring(CGM) Cost
Average Costing of CGM
- Dexcom G4 $1285 (4 sensors costing $350 with claims they last 14 days each)
- Medtronic Guardian $2010 including 5 sensors (5 sensors costing $275)
- Abbott Freestyle $1220 (6 sensors costing $320 lasting 5 days each)