The management of diabetes in patients who need to take insulin to survive has come a long way. The advancement in technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors has availed more options to users so that they can choose what works best for them. This has ultimately made the devices:
- Easier to use
- Less invasive
How does one choose the right blood glucose meter?
For people living with diabetes, a blood glucose meter is part of their daily life. That is why it makes sense to get the perfect one right from the word go. As previously mentioned, the technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors has changed a lot and this has resulted in more choices than ever before. The options range from basic designs to more advanced models; some of which come with alarms.
Just because the device is fancy that doesn’t automatically deem it better than the other options available in the market. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors:
- Cost
There’s a wide variety of CGMs and these vary greatly in price. While some insurers cover most models, other insurers limit coverage to specific models. It’s important to first check what the provider covers.
- Ease of use
Are the numbers on the display monitor easy to read? Find a device that is designed for simpler operation. One that’s easy to use should include:
- Larger buttons
- Illuminated screens
- Audio capabilities
- Information retrieval
Patients need to put into consideration how the CGM retrieves their information and find out whether or not they can download the data to a smartphone or computer to share with the doctor via email.
- Flexibility
Finger pricks are quite inconveniencing. People who are tired of them have the alternative of using a site monitor that gets samples from their arms, thighs, or palms of their hands. This is a clear indication of the evolution of the technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors in ensuring that patients get the best possible options available.
Fewer finger pricks thanks to the technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors
All that people with diabetes need is better glucose control. A continuous glucose monitor is the answer to that need. It offers the patients an advanced way of checking their blood glucose levels in real-time. The readings are made over some time and this makes comparison very easy. The patient can tell what direction the graph is going and at what speed. Ultimately, he/she is in a position to make better choices regarding the management plan. Some ways of managing diabetes include:
- Daily injections
- Oral medications
- Insulin pump
The technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors includes a sensor that is placed on the patient’s skin. The sensor transmits the readings to a small recording device. This is designed to sound an alarm if the blood sugar rises or falls to extreme levels.
Conclusion
Advancements in the technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors have made it possible for patients to monitor their glucose levels. Diabetes control has been simplified since patients have better access to information and thus control of the treatment decisions. The occurrence of accidents and complications has been reduced significantly thanks to the decisions that these devices enable. The best part of it all is that the technology of Continuous Glucose Monitors allows them to continuously monitor glucose levels using minimally invasive sensors that dwell in the subcutaneous space for days.
