Who Qualifies for Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Being diagnosed with diabetes can be a life-changing experience. People with diabetes face a lot of questions, including how to manage their blood sugar levels. For many people, managing diabetes can be a challenge due to the frequent glucose tests.

Thanks to advances in medical technology, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is paving the way for a better and more accurate way to manage diabetes. But the question is, who qualifies for continuous glucose monitoring?

Here’s a brief overview of continuous glucose monitoring and who may be eligible for continuous glucose monitoring.

What is Continuous Glucose Monitors?

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a device that constantly tracks your blood glucose (sugar) levels throughout the day and night. It can alert you if your levels are too low or too high. This is incredibly helpful for people with diabetes, as it gives real-time information about whether blood sugar levels are rising or dropping.

CGM devices are a convenient and effective way to monitor blood glucose levels. Here’s a simple breakdown of how these devices work:

• Sensor Placement: A small sensor is inserted under your skin, usually on your belly or arm. This is done quickly and easily with an applicator. The adhesive tape secures the sensor in place.
• Glucose Measurement: The sensor measures the glucose levels in the fluid under your skin every five minutes, around the clock. Sensors are replaced every 7 to 14 days or a few times a year.
• Data Transmission: All CGM systems have a transmitter that wirelessly sends the glucose data from the sensor to a device where you can read it. Some systems have a reusable transmitter that attaches to each new sensor, while others have a transmitter built into the disposable sensor.
• Data Display: The glucose data from the sensor is sent to either a handheld device (similar to a cell phone), an app on your smartphone, or an insulin pump, depending on the CGM system.
• Data Download and Sharing: You can download the CGM data anytime. Some CGM systems will send data continuously. Patients can also share this important information with their healthcare provider.

Who Qualifies for Continuous Glucose Monitoring?

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can be used by a wide range of people, primarily those managing diabetes. Here are some general guidelines on who can use continuous glucose monitoring.

Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce insulin. For this reason, patients with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections or an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels.

Continuous glucose monitoring is considered useful for type 1 diabetes. Because patients may experience rapid changes in their blood sugar levels, constant monitoring is necessary to avoid severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition characterized by the inability of the body to use insulin properly. Individuals with type 2 diabetes may also require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels.

Continuous glucose monitoring helps manage type 2 diabetes because it provides real-time data that shows how food, exercise, and other factors can affect blood sugar levels.

Pregnant Women with Diabetes

Pregnant women with diabetes (gestational diabetes) may also be eligible for continuous glucose monitoring. It’s important to maintain controlled blood sugar levels during pregnancy to avoid pregnancy complications.

Continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy offers a non-invasive way to monitor blood sugar levels.

Individuals with Hypoglycemic Unawareness

Hypoglycemic unawareness is a condition where an individual with diabetes cannot recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar levels. This condition can lead to dangerous situations, such as falling into a coma.

Continuous glucose monitors can help people with hypoglycemic unawareness keep track of their blood sugar levels and avoid dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Children with Diabetes

Parents of children with diabetes often worry about their child’s blood sugar levels, and CGM can alleviate that anxiety. The technology can help detect patterns and trends in glucose levels and provide alerts when levels fall below or exceed a specific range.

Children who have a difficult time recognizing early warning signs of hypoglycemia or who are not able to communicate symptoms effectively are also good candidates for continuous glucose monitors.

People Needing Intensive Insulin Therapy

Intensive insulin therapy is a treatment that involves frequent insulin injections to manage blood sugar levels. Continuous glucose monitoring can be helpful for those who require intensive insulin therapy as it allows for constant blood sugar level monitoring and insulin adjustment, reducing the risk of low or high blood sugar levels.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Near Me

If you are considering continuous glucose monitors to track your blood sugar levels, consider talking to one of our representatives here at Americare Diabetes. We are a trusted provider of diabetes supplies and respiratory services. Based in Santa Ana, California, our dedicated team led by Lloyd Mote delivers unparalleled service to patients, healthcare professionals, and caregivers nationwide.

As a premier supplier of diabetes equipment, we’re committed to amaze you with our efficiency, extensive payor coverage, flexibility, and operational excellence.

To learn more about us or to set up a consultation with us, call our office today at (866) 400-9565. We look forward to serving you!