What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring?

What exactly is CGM?

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a method to track glucose levels throughout the day and night. CGM systems take glucose measurements at regular intervals, 24 hours a day, and translate the readings into dynamic data, generating glucose direction and rate of change.

Having this context helps CGM users proactively manage glucose highs and lows, plus gives added insight into the impacts that meals, exercise, and illness may have on an individual’s glucose levels. CGM can also contribute to better diabetes management by helping to minimize the guesswork that comes with making treatment decisions based solely on a number from a blood glucose meter reading.

Studies have shown that some CGM systems may help reduce A1C1,2 levels and reduce the risk for hypoglycemia, whether users are on insulin injections or pump therapy.

How does CGM work?

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems track glucose levels throughout the day. CGM users insert a tiny sensor wire just under their skin using an automatic applicator. An adhesive patch holds the CGM sensor housing in place so the sensor can measure glucose readings in interstitial fluid throughout the day and night. A small, reusable transmitter connects to the sensor wire and sends real-time readings wirelessly to a receiver, so the user can view the information. With some systems, a compatible smart device with the CGM system app can serve as the display device. The receiver or compatible smart device displays current glucose levels, as well as historical trends in levels. The CGM receiver and/or compatible smart device can also be set to send custom alerts to the user when certain glucose thresholds are reached.

The Benefits of CGM

Unlike a blood glucose meter (BGM), which provides just a single glucose reading, CGM systems can provide real-time, dynamic glucose information every five minutes — up to 288 readings in a 24-hour period. You can gain valuable insight about your glucose levels, rate, and direction of change, giving you additional insight to proactively manage your diabetes.

Please check out our Enrollment Form and, Reorder Form if you would like to order your CGM supplies with Binson's.

Information provided by Dexcom.