Is continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) safe?
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Hello, doctor has advised me to get a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) where a tiny sensor associated with the CGM is inserted under the skin, usually on the belly or arm. It tests glucose frequently in regular intervals (typically 5 to 15 minutes), and a wireless transmitter sends the glucose reading to a display device. Is continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) safe? Please provide some inputs.
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@chandrima For most people with diabetes, continuous glucose monitoring is the key to achieving target blood glucose. It is most beneficial for people who need to test their glucose levels frequently. The device is suggested for adults and children aged two years and above (typically the ones that have juvenile diabetes).
The doctor may recommend a CGM all the time, or only for a few days, to help manage diabetes. The advantages are: Glucose levels can be tracked throughout the day and night.
Glucose levels can be checked during the night when the levels are generally not tested.
A rise or drop in glucose levels can be tracked, which will help people with diabetes to take early action.
CGM helps to reduce the number of finger-prick tests.
CGM can help improve the levels of HbA1c as it helps to tailor the insulin dose more carefully.
It helps patients to reduce hypoglycemia (low glucose) events, as they can notice a downward trend even before the sugar levels sharply drop.
The device can be used to set triggers and alarms for very high and low glucose spikes.
CGM helps evaluate and measure the effects of diet and exercise on sugar levels.
It aids in determining the effectiveness of the treatment plan at a detailed level.