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For people with diabetes, monitoring their blood sugar levels is an important part of managing their condition. Traditionally, this has been done with finger-stick glucose monitors that require multiple daily checks. However, in recent years, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has emerged as a new and innovative way to monitor glucose levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and traditional glucose monitors and discuss which one might be better for you.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) are small wearable devices that measure glucose levels in real-time by inserting a tiny sensor under the skin. The sensor reads glucose levels from interstitial fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds the body’s cells. The data is then transmitted wirelessly to a receiver or smartphone app, allowing you to track your glucose levels throughout the day and night.
One of the biggest benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is that they provide data continuously on your glucose, allowing you to see how your glucose levels are trending over time. This can be especially helpful for people who experience frequent blood sugar fluctuations or who have trouble managing their diabetes with traditional monitoring methods. CGMs can also alert you when your glucose levels are too high or too low, helping you take action to prevent complications.
CGM monitors are available from several different manufacturers, including MedGuard Medical. Our CGM monitors are easy to use and come with a variety of features to help you manage your diabetes as well as we have a next day delivery option. Some of the features of our CGM monitors include:
- Real-time glucose readings
- Trend graphs to see how your glucose levels are changing over time
- Alerts for high and low glucose levels
- Mobile app for easy monitoring on-the-go
- Compatibility with insulin pumps for automated insulin delivery
Traditional Glucose Monitors
Traditional glucose monitors, on the other hand, require a finger-stick blood test to measure glucose levels. This involves pricking your finger with a small needle, placing a drop of blood on a test strip, and inserting the strip into the meter to get a reading. While traditional glucose monitors are widely used and can provide accurate results, they do not offer the same level of insight as continuous glucose monitoring.
One of the main disadvantages of traditional glucose monitors is that they only provide a snapshot of your glucose levels at a single point in time. This means that you may miss important trends or fluctuations in your glucose levels that could impact your diabetes management. Additionally, traditional monitors do not provide alerts for high or low glucose levels, which could be dangerous for people who have trouble sensing hypoglycemia.
CGM Monitors vs Traditional Glucose Monitors: Which is Better?
So, which is better – continuous glucose monitoring or traditional glucose monitors? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider when deciding which monitoring method is right for you:
Frequency of glucose checks: If you need to check your glucose levels frequently, continuous glucose monitoring may be a better choice. CGM monitors provide continuous monitoring, which means you can see how your glucose levels are changing throughout the day and night without having to perform multiple finger-sticks.
Ease of use: CGM monitors are generally easier to use than traditional glucose monitors, which require multiple steps and may be difficult for people with dexterity issues or vision problems.
Cost: CGMs tend to be more expensive than traditional glucose monitors, so cost may be a factor in your decision.
Level of insight: If you want to see how your glucose levels are trending over time and receive alerts for high and low glucose levels, a CGM monitor is the way to go. If you only need to check your glucose levels occasionally and don’t require the same level of insight into your glucose levels, a traditional monitor may be sufficient.
In conclusion, CGM monitors and traditional glucose monitors both have their pros and cons. While traditional glucose monitors are widely used and can provide accurate results, they do not offer the same level of insight as CGMs. CGMs provide continuous glucose monitoring, trend graphs, and alerts for high and low glucose levels, which can be especially helpful for people who experience frequent blood sugar fluctuations or who have trouble managing their diabetes with traditional monitoring methods.
At MedGuardMedical we provide only top quality CGM monitors which have been developed with advanced technologies that make using them simpler than ever before! With our products you get an accurate reading of your glucose levels at all times so you can stay on top of your diabetes management plan without any hassle! For more quick reads and health tips, explore our website and facebook page.
