Technology now allows computers in our cars to monitor various systems from brakes to transmission to fuel level. So it should probably come as no surprise that technology now also allows us to keep better tabs on glucose levels in the body through the use of a device called a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

A personal continuous glucose monitoring device (CGM) is used by individuals who have diabetes treated with insulin to measure glucose levels through the day and night.

The fact is traditional blood glucose testing doesn’t always tell the whole story even for people who monitor frequently. That’s where the CGM comes in. It provides a personal, everyday tracking device that, when used along with blood glucose finger sticks, can give you valuable glucose information and help you gain better control over your blood glucose levels.

A CGM allows you to see how events, such as stress, exercise and diet, affect your blood glucose levels. The device can also pinpoint episodes of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. It tells you where your blood glucose is now, where it has been, and where it is going.

While some people with diabetes use CGM technology on a daily basis, Draelos Metabolic Center also uses CGM technology for short term evaluations (3-7 days) to provide information for recommending highly individualized and accurate insulin regimens or insulin pump settings.  Ask your provider at your next visit if CGM will benefit you.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

While a traditional glucose measurement essentially provides a snapshot in time, a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) allows you to see what is happening in between those measurements, including some levels that may not be detected by the traditional measurement.

What it is:

• Shows trends in the direction blood glucose is going and how fast
• Sounds alarm when out of target glucose range
• Requires a second site for the sensor to be placed if also using an insulin pump

What it is not:

• A replacement for finger stick testing of blood glucose and should not be used for day-to-day monitoring of blood glucose
• Maintenance Free
  • The device requires calibration several times daily for accuracy
• Fool Proof
  • Treatment decisions require verification with a finger stick reading
  • Readings are delayed by about 5 minutes from blood readings
• For long-term, self-management of blood glucose

Some people with diabetes utilize CGMs on a daily basis. However, Draelos Metabolic Center also uses continuous glucose monitoring technology in a short-term diagnostic capacity to help adjust insulin regimens in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.