Managing diabetes is a challenging and time-consuming task, as it involves constant monitoring of blood glucose levels. For many years, the traditional way of measuring blood glucose levels was through fingerstick testing, which required patients to prick their fingers multiple times a day to check their blood sugar levels.
However, with the introduction of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) such as the Libre Freestyle sensor, diabetes management has become easier and more convenient.
In this article, we will explore what a continuous glucose monitor is, how it works, and its benefits for people living with diabetes.
What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?
A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a device that measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, the fluid that surrounds the body’s cells. Unlike traditional glucose meters that require a fingerstick blood sample, CGMs use a small sensor that is inserted under the skin to continuously measure glucose levels.
CGMs provide real-time information on glucose levels, which helps people with diabetes make more informed decisions about their insulin dosing and food intake.
The Libre Freestyle Sensor
The Libre Freestyle sensor is a popular CGM device that has gained widespread popularity in recent years. The device consists of a small sensor that is inserted under the skin and a transmitter that is attached to the sensor. The transmitter sends glucose data to a receiver or a smartphone app in real-time, allowing people with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels throughout the day.
The Libre Freestyle sensor has several unique features that make it popular among people with diabetes. Firstly, it does not require fingerstick calibration, which means users do not have to perform regular fingerstick tests to calibrate the device. Secondly, the device is small and discreet, making it easy to wear and use in public. Finally, the device is relatively affordable compared to other CGMs on the market.
How Does the Libre Freestyle Sensor Work?
The Libre Freestyle sensor works by measuring glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. The sensor consists of a small, flexible filament that is inserted just under the skin, usually on the back of the arm. The filament contains a tiny electrode that measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid.
The sensor is held in place by a small adhesive patch that is attached to the skin. The adhesive patch is designed to be water-resistant, allowing users to wear the device while showering or swimming.
Once the sensor is inserted, the user can scan the sensor with a receiver or a smartphone app to obtain real-time glucose data. The user simply needs to hold the receiver or smartphone near the sensor to obtain the glucose reading.
The Libre Freestyle sensor can store up to 8 hours of glucose data, allowing users to monitor their glucose levels throughout the day. The device also includes alerts that notify users when their glucose levels are too high or too low, which can help prevent hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Benefits of Using the Libre Freestyle Sensor
The Libre Freestyle sensor offers several benefits for people with diabetes. Firstly, the device provides real-time glucose data, which can help users make informed decisions about their insulin dosing and food intake. By monitoring glucose levels throughout the day, users can adjust their insulin dosing and food intake to maintain their glucose levels within a target range.
Secondly, the device does not require fingerstick calibration, which can reduce the number of fingerstick tests that users need to perform. This can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with frequent fingerstick testing.
Thirdly, the device is small and discreet, making it easy to wear and use in public. Unlike traditional glucose meters that require a separate lancet and test strip, the Libre Freestyle sensor is an all-in-one device that can be worn discreetly under clothing. This can help reduce feelings of self-consciousness or embarrassment that some people with diabetes may experience when testing their glucose levels in public.
Fourthly, the device can help prevent hypoglycemia by providing alerts when glucose levels are too high or too low. This can help users take action to prevent these conditions before they occur.
Finally, the device can provide a comprehensive view of glucose trends over time. By analyzing glucose data over days, weeks, or months, users can identify patterns in their glucose levels and make adjustments to their diabetes management plan accordingly.
Who Can Benefit from Using the Libre Freestyle Sensor?
The Libre Freestyle sensor can benefit anyone living with diabetes who needs to monitor their glucose levels regularly. However, it may be particularly beneficial for people who:
- Experience frequent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia
- Are unable to perform frequent fingerstick tests due to pain, discomfort, or other reasons
- Need to monitor glucose levels regularly, such as people with type 1 diabetes or those who require insulin therapy
- Are interested in gaining a more comprehensive view of their glucose trends over time
Conclusion
Continuous glucose monitors such as the Libre Freestyle sensor are a game-changer for people living with diabetes. By providing real-time glucose data, these devices can help users make informed decisions about their diabetes management plan. The Libre Freestyle sensor, in particular, offers several unique features that make it popular among people with diabetes, including its small size, water-resistant design, and lack of fingerstick calibration.
In addition to the benefits of the Libre Freestyle sensor itself, Skingrip is now selling patches designed specifically for use with the device.
These patches can help keep the sensor securely in place, reducing the risk of accidental dislodgement or loss of data. Skingrip patches are made from high-quality materials that are gentle on the skin and designed to stay in place even during physical activity or water exposure.
Overall, the Libre Freestyle sensor and Skingrip patches can help people with diabetes lead a more convenient, comfortable, and informed life. By providing real-time glucose data and secure sensor placement, these devices can help users better manage their diabetes and enjoy a higher quality of life.
