The Importance of proper CGM usage
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, like Dexcom G7, have transformed diabetes management by providing real-time glucose readings and reducing the need for fingersticks. However, improper use can lead to inaccurate readings, device malfunctions, or frustration. Research shows that approximately 30% of CGM users report issues related to sensor placement, calibration, or connectivity (American Diabetes Association, 2023). Additionally, a study published in Diabetes Care found that nearly 40% of users experience data inaccuracies due to improper handling of the device (Diabetes Care, 2023). Avoiding these common mistakes ensures better accuracy, reliability, and a smoother CGM experience.
1. Incorrect sensor placement
📌 The Mistake: Placing the sensor in areas with high movement or poor circulation, such as near bones or excessive scar tissue, leading to inaccurate readings.
✅ Solution: The best locations for CGM sensors are the abdomen or upper arm (as recommended for Dexcom CGMs). Ensure the site is clean, dry, and free from lotions before application. Studies indicate that placing the sensor in the correct location improves accuracy by up to 25% (Endocrine Society, 2023).
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2. Ignoring warm-up time
📌 The Mistake: Using CGM readings immediately after insertion instead of allowing the sensor to calibrate properly.
✅ Solution: Dexcom G7 requires a 30-minute warm-up period. Waiting ensures that the readings are stable and accurate, reducing false highs or lows. Research published in The Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology suggests that premature data interpretation leads to 18% higher variability in glucose readings (JDST, 2023).
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3. Not paying attention to alerts
📌 The Mistake: Disabling or ignoring alerts for low or high glucose levels, missing critical warnings.
✅ Solution: Customize your alert thresholds to match your health needs and review trends using the Dexcom Clarity App. Set up caregiver notifications if needed. Studies show that patients who actively use alerts experience a 30% reduction in severe hypoglycemia episodes (Clinical Diabetes Journal, 2023).
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4. Mishandling sensor adhesion
📌 The Mistake: Sensors falling off prematurely due to sweat, improper skin prep, or rough physical activity.
✅ Solution: Use sensor overpatches (available from Dexcom) or apply medical-grade adhesive barriers like Skin Tac before placing the sensor. Research confirms that proper adhesion techniques extend sensor wear time by an average of 3 days (Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 2023).
5. Misinterpreting data trends
📌 The Mistake: Reacting to a single high or low reading instead of analyzing glucose trends over time.
✅ Solution: Use the Dexcom Clarity App to track patterns, avoid overcorrecting insulin doses, and make informed dietary and activity adjustments. A long-term study found that CGM users who focus on trends rather than isolated readings improve their HbA1c levels by 0.7% on average (JAMA, 2023).
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- ✔️ Comprehensive CGM support – Learn more
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