Back to Basics: Continuous glucose monitoring

There are different ways you can check your glucose levels. 

How Does CGM work?  

CGM systems consist of three main components: a tiny sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, a transmitter that sends data from the sensor to a receiver or smartphone app, and a display device that shows real-time glucose readings. 

CGM measures glucose in the fluid that surrounds the cells and not the blood like a fingerpick. This means that the readings may be slightly different. This is because blood glucose is always 5-10 mins ahead of interstitial glucose, especially during periods of rapid change. For example, straight after a meal and during or after exercise. 

Sensors can last between 7-14 days, depending on the brand. NDSS subsidy is available for people with type 1 diabetes (there is no subsidy available for people with type 2 diabetes or GDM).  

Benefits of CGM 

Real-time insights: CGM provides immediate feedback on how diet, exercise, medication, and other factors impact glucose levels, allowing for timely adjustments to diabetes management strategies. 

Improved glycaemic control: Studies have shown that CGM use is linked with improved diabetes management, reduced risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), and decreased HbA1c levels. 

Greater convenience: CGM reduces the need for frequent fingerpick testing, providing a more convenient and less invasive method of glucose monitoring. 

Enhanced safety: CGM can predict and alert to hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia so action can be taken before symptoms occur. 

Insightful glucose reports: CGM systems come with software that allows users to analyse glucose trends over time, identify patterns, and make informed decisions about diabetes management. 

Checking and acting on glucose levels are important parts of diabetes management. Devices that can make these tasks easier and less painful are welcome and can even be lifesaving - this is especially true with hypoglycaemia. 

Being able to see glucose levels and the direction that they’re heading in with the trend arrows can mean people with diabetes are more confident and safer to participate in activities such as exercise and driving. 

If you are keen to explore how CGM can help you to get more insight into your diabetes management, talk to your local Diabetes Nurse Educator (DNE) or contact the Diabetes Victoria Helpline on 1300 437 386 and ask to speak with one of our DNEs. 

To find out more about available devices and the NDSS subsidy criteria go to: 

https://www.ndss.com.au/products/continuous-glucose-monitoring-devices/