The Continuous glucose monitoring is a less invasive way to see what you levels are doing. CGM can be used whether you wear a pump or use injections. You will always require finger prick testing, but you should be able to reduce them.
CGM can essentially measure your bloods 24/7 and give you feedback if they are climbing or droping too quickly. Allowing you to react.
How does Continuous glucose monitoring work?
CGM systems work 24 hours a day and can include alarms to indicate when your glucose levels are too high or too low. They are getting more accurate as time goes on and the future may even see contact lenses or tattoos for reading glucose levels. With these sensors, they actually measure the glucose in your interstitial fluid under your skin, not your blood like a blood glucose meter. CGM are still not widely available on the NHS, so many people self-fund. It is always worth asking your clinic for a free trial before making any decisions.
Here are some of the latest technology available now.
Dexcom
Dexcom G7 Continuous glucose monitoring.
The new Dexcom G7 app clearly shows where your glucose levels are at, where you are heading and where you have been, helping you make more informed decisions. Spending more time in range and working to lower your HbA1c is easier than ever before.
https://www.dexcom.com/en-GB
Medtronic
medtronic veo enlite sensorThe Enlite Sensor Medtronic This is Medtronic’s newest continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor that combines improved performance with features designed to provide exceptional comfort and ease of use. Available as a standalone system or integrated with the Medtronic Veo or 640G insulin pumps
https://www.medtronic-diabetes.com/en-gb/about-diabetes/continuous-glucose-monitoring
FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System
This is not a CGM however the Libre works on the same principle by reading interstitial fluid with a small sensor inserted under the skin.
https://www.freestylelibre.co.uk/libre/
Freestyle Libre
Convenient A small sensor automatically measures and continuously stores glucose readings day and night
Discreet Glucose readings with a painless 1 second scan even through clothing
Easy Swim, shower or exercise; the FreeStyle Libre system is designed to be water-resistant and worn while bathing, showering, swimming and exercising.
For more information on pumps and CGM in Scotland and the UK, visit www.iPAG.co.uk for up-to-date information and costs.