Top-notch blood glucose monitors eschewing finger punctures
In the world of diabetes management, two main types of blood glucose monitoring devices stand out: Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and Traditional Blood Glucose Meters (BGMs). Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of CGMs compared to BGMs:
CGMs offer several benefits over traditional meters.
Accuracy and Data Monitoring:
Unlike BGMs, which provide snapshot readings, CGMs offer continuous, real-time glucose readings by measuring glucose levels in the interstitial fluid under the skin. This allows for better insight into glucose patterns and aids in proactive management.
Ease of Use:
CGMs significantly reduce or eliminate the need for frequent finger pricks, offering more convenience and comfort. They often include alerts for dangerously high or low glucose levels, improving safety by notifying users promptly.
Data Integration:
Many CGM devices transmit data wirelessly to smartphones or monitors, making it easier to review and manage glucose information.
Disadvantages of CGMs compared to BGMs:
Despite their advantages, CGMs also have some drawbacks.
Cost:
CGMs are more expensive upfront and ongoing (sensor replacements every 7–14 days) compared to BGMs and their test strips/lancets, which are generally lower cost and often more covered by insurance.
Accuracy Limitations:
CGMs measure glucose in interstitial fluid, which can lag behind actual blood glucose by a few minutes, sometimes leading to less precise readings, especially during rapid changes. Some CGMs require periodic calibration with finger prick BGMs.
Device Issues:
Sensor insertion can cause minor discomfort, and CGMs may experience disconnections or require recalibration, causing potential data gaps.
In summary, CGMs provide detailed glucose pattern information and ease but at a higher cost and with some accuracy trade-offs due to physiological lag. BGMs remain cost-effective and accurate for point-in-time checks but lack continuous data and alerts essential for some users.
Popular CGMs on the Market:
Several brands offer CGMs, including the FreeStyle Libre 2 System, the Dexcom G6 CGM System, and the Eversense CGM. These devices are available at various pharmacies across the United States and in online stores.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 system offers a 14-day free trial with training, optional glucose alarms, and sensors that last for up to 14 days at a time. The Dexcom G6 CGM System is a budget-friendly device with smartphone compatibility. The Eversense CGM has long-lasting sensors that work for up to 90 days, but it requires a visit to a doctor's office for insertion.
Choosing the Right Device:
When deciding between a CGM and a BGM, it's essential to consider personal needs, budget, and lifestyle. People who have diabetes and wish to buy a blood sugar monitor without a finger prick collection should consider factors such as price, ease of use, insurance, approval, and additional features before committing to a purchase.
Remember, while CGMs offer continuous monitoring and alerts, they may not be suitable for everyone due to their higher cost and potential accuracy limitations. Traditional BGMs remain a reliable option for those seeking a more cost-effective solution.
For those interested in alternative methods, glucose breath tests and earlobe tests are available, but their effectiveness may vary, especially for people with certain conditions such as type 1 diabetes or during periods of exercise or very low blood sugar.
Ultimately, the choice between a CGM and a BGM comes down to personal preference and the unique needs of each individual with diabetes.
[1] Diabetes UK. (2021). Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGMs). Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/technology-for-diabetes-management/continuous-glucose-monitoring-cgms
[2] American Diabetes Association. (2021). Technology: Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). Retrieved from https://www.diabetesjournals.org/care/article/44/supplement_1/S104/fulltext
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/continuous-glucose-monitoring/about/pac-20385302
[4] Healthline. (2021). Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/continuous-glucose-monitoring-cgm
- In health-and-wellness discussions, the topic of predictive technology for managing medical-conditions, such as obesity, depression, asthma, hyperglycemia, and diabetesmellitus, is becoming increasingly relevant.
- Technology advances in the monitoring of diabetes have led to the emergence of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs), which offer improvements over traditional Blood Glucose Meters (BGMs).
- A key advantage of CGMs is their ability to provide continuous, real-time glucose readings, offering a deeper understanding of glucose patterns for proactive management.
- The hassle of frequent finger pricks is significantly reduced with CGMs, providing more convenience and comfort for users, as well as offering alerts for dangerously high or low glucose levels.
- Data integration is another benefit of CGMs, with many devices transmitting data wirelessly to smartphones or monitors, making it easy to review and manage glucose information.
- However, CGMs have some drawbacks, such as higher costs compared to BGMs, occasionally less precise readings due to physiological lag, and the potential for device issues like sensor discomfort, disconnections, or data gaps.
- Among popular CGMs on the market are the FreeStyle Libre 2 System, the Dexcom G6 CGM System, and the Eversense CGM, each offering unique features like long-lasting sensors and smartphone compatibility.
- When choosing between a CGM and a BGM, it's crucial to consider factors like personal needs, budget, and lifestyle, as well as insurance coverage and additional features.
- Some individuals may find alternative methods for glucose monitoring, such as breath tests and earlobe tests, but their effectiveness may vary for people with specific conditions, like type 1 diabetes or during periods of exercise or very low blood sugar.
- Science and technology continue to make strides in the development of more sophisticated health-and-wellness gadgets to aid in the management of various medical-conditions, including diabetes, bipolar, and psoriatic arthritis.
- As we navigate the world of health-and-wellness, it's essential to stay informed about new treatments and technologies that can help us lead healthier, happier lives.
