Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is an advanced technology that provides real-time insights into a person’s blood glucose levels throughout the day and night. Unlike traditional finger-stick testing, which gives only single readings at specific times, CGM uses a small sensor placed under the skin to measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every few minutes. These readings are transmitted to a monitor or smartphone, allowing patients and healthcare providers to track patterns, detect fluctuations, and make timely decisions regarding diet, exercise, and medications.

CGM is especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes, as it helps maintain tight glucose control, reduces the risk of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and improves overall quality of life. Many systems also include alerts and alarms when glucose levels go too high or too low, providing safety and reassurance.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of glucose fluctuations is vital.

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may cause shakiness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, blurred vision, irritability, confusion, or even loss of consciousness if untreated.
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) may present with increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, headaches, blurred vision, delayed wound healing, or unexplained weight loss.

CGM helps identify these fluctuations early, often before symptoms become severe, thereby preventing complications.