Monitoring blood sugar is a critical part of diabetes management. Two common methods are traditional blood sugar monitoring and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). But what’s the difference, and which is right for you?
Blood Sugar Monitoring
How It Works: Requires a fingerstick to obtain a blood sample, which is analyzed with a glucometer (glucose meter).
Pros:
Affordable and widely available.
Available over the counter.
Provides a snapshot of blood sugar at a specific moment.
Cons:
Requires frequent finger sticks.
Doesn’t provide data between checks
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
How It Works: A small sensor placed under the skin measures glucose levels in interstitial fluid, providing data every few minutes.
Pros:
Tracks blood sugar trends throughout the day and night.
Alerts users to highs and lows in real-time.
Reduces the need for fingersticks.
Cons:
Higher cost compared to traditional monitors.
Requires regular sensor replacement.
Must wear a device on or in your body.
Key Differences
Frequency of Data: CGMs provide continuous updates, while traditional monitors give one-time readings.
User Experience: CGMs provide a more comprehensive picture but involve higher upfront and ongoing costs.
Insights: CGMs help identify patterns and trends, enabling more informed management.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and healthcare provider’s recommendations. Many people start with a glucometer and transition to a CGM as they seek more advanced insights into their glucose patterns.
The new ADA Standard of Care recommendation on CGM use expanded to include not only those with type 1 diabetes but also those individuals with type 2 diabetes on glucose-lowering agents other than insulin.
How eddii Can Help
The eddii app integrates seamlessly with Dexcom CGMs to track your data and provide actionable feedback. We’re working on integrating with additional CGMs in the near future. You can sign up on our waitlist here.
Understanding your options empowers you to choose the best tools for managing your diabetes. Whether you stick to traditional monitoring or opt for a CGM, consistent tracking is key to staying healthy and in control.
Comments