This post is by Stacey – read her bio here
I am one of the very fortunate PWD (person with diabetes) who has a CGMS (continuous glucose monitoring system). My CGM of choice is the Dexcom Seven Plus. I got my first Dexcom Seven about a year or so ago then upgraded to the Seven Plus when it came out a few months ago. I like it a lot. The results are very accurate compared to my glucose meter results with the exception of those few times when it’s not – but keep in mind that it is a technological device and will have periodic issues. The views on the receiver are assorted with 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 hour trend graphs. The functions and menu are easy to navigate. The alerts and sounds are customizable. And it allows you to enter events such as carb intake, exercise, insulin dosages or health issues. Of course the only caveat is that its receiver is a separate device from my insulin pump but it doesn’t have to be attached to me so that does help when I can throw it in my handbag or keep it on my desk while I work. (Please keep in mind that these are my personal opinions and I am NOT connected with Dexcom in any way)
I know of other PWD who love their CGMS and cannot go a day without it. Whether it is a form of security knowing where your BG is at any given moment or getting the alert that your BG is dropping even when you don’t feel it. And those are things that I like about using a CGM. But to me it can also be somewhat of an inconvenience. It is another device to tend to constantly, it is yet another canula inserted into my body and another “pod” that sits on my skin somewhere. For these reasons I tend to take long breaks in between sensor uses although I know I am not benefiting from doing that. I know everyone is different but how do I look past those inconveniences and get to that place where I can’t imagine being without my CGM? Or is it okay that I take breaks and still monitor my BG on a regular basis during those periods? Is there a happy medium?
Your feelings are exactly why I haven't gotten a CGM yet. The technology isn't where I'd like it to be so everything can be integrated into one device and one canula. Plus, all I hear is horror stories about them not working, falling off, etc. Also, you still need to check your sugar almost as many times a day even with a CGM. What's the benefit, seeing a trend? Knowing when you are trending high/low? Sorry, I'll pass for now.
Well, like you said, it's really up to you. But here are my thoughts:
Pros:
You know when you are going low before you feel it. This is especially helpful if you go low at night a lot like I do. It will also help you avoid getting sick from Ketones. It helps you and/or your endo see your trends for a full 24 hour period instead of seeing 8 different tests per day which helps in making changes to your regimen.
Cons:
I think you identified them all.
I hope my insurance covers one for me. i can't stand going low at night. Especially when it's really bad and I don't wake up and my poor boyfriend has to deal with Mr. Hyde. (Thanks for your entry Tina, I totally feel you!!!)
Sorry, my point was, do what works for you. Take breaks if you feel that is what you need. You need to be happy about what's happening in and on your body, so use it when you want. You will find that happy medium. Thanks for a great blog Stacey! P.S. You are so luck to have one! =)
for what it's worth, i've been type 1 for 25 years, since i was 8. i recently got my cgms (dex seven plus as well) and i love it. couldn't go a day without it. true, the technology is not perfect, but it's certainly improving. i have learned a lot from using it, such as: (i) how to adjust my basal rates, (ii) when to bolus for a meal, (iii) how different foods affect me, (iv) how not to overtreat lows, (v) how to use the square bolus function correctly… the list could go on and on. i have less lows, so i eat less sugar and i've consequently lost (a little) weight. i only wish this technology was available to everyone who needed it, not just those of us fortunate enough with insurance plans that will cover the costs.
Stacey-
I love this post. I am on the fence when it comes to the CGM. A part of me wants one but the other part says “no way”. I don’t need one at this point but I’m hoping when I do. The technology will be a lot better.