In today’s world, technology plays a crucial role in healthcare. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a prime example, offering real-time insights into blood glucose levels. Let’s explore the types, workings, and benefits of these monitors for people with diabetes.
What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring?
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) involves using a device to provide real-time blood glucose level information. These wearable devices automatically track blood glucose concentration, allowing users to see their blood sugar levels at any time and identify trends and changes, allowing them to make informed decisions on any insulin requirements.
How Does a Continuous Glucose Monitor Work?
A CGM consists of three main parts:
- Sensor: A tiny, disposable sensor inserted under the skin or an implantable sensor inside the body estimates the blood glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. Disposable sensors will need to be replaced approximately every two weeks while implants will need to be changed twice per year.
- Transmitter: Attached with an adhesive on the body, it sends glucose data to the third component.
- Software Programme: The software, typically on a smartphone, insulin pump, or dedicated receiver, displays the glucose level, the glucose trend and alarms if the levels go above or below recommended levels.
What Are The Different Types of Continuous Glucose Monitoring?
All CGMs monitor blood sugar levels, but they differ in how they store and display the information.
- Real-time CGM Devices: Automatically provide real-time readings of blood glucose levels.
- Intermittent-Scan CGM Devices: Require scanning the sensor with a device to receive blood glucose readings.
- Temporary CGM Devices: Collects glucose data for a limited time for doctors to download and review.
- Closed Loop CGM Devices: Integrates with insulin pumps to automatically deliver insulin based on glucose readings.
Features of Continuous Glucose Monitors
Advances in technology have introduced different apps and features to continuous glucose monitors to help track trends and enhance diabetes management. As they continuously monitor around the clock, the data they collect is invaluable.
They can alert users if glucose levels become too high or low so that proactive measures can be taken to prevent emergencies and long-term health complications; some devices can also send alarms to caregivers. Additionally, users can track diet, medications, and physical activity to see how these impact glucose levels.
Benefits of CGMs
Using a CGM helps to better manage daily blood glucose levels, reducing the frequency of low blood glucose emergencies. Many CGMs eliminate the need for regular finger pricks, decreasing the requirements for diabetic test strips.
At BDK, we are proud to provide adhesive components for CGMs and contribute to the ongoing innovation in wearable healthcare technology. We prioritise patient care, and ensure our capabilities and solutions adapt to evolving wearable technologies like CGMs.
If you’d like to talk to us about new or future opportunities, please get in touch here.
