Storytime: Three Things Cameron Learnt Using CGM
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been a life-changer for many people living with type 1 diabetes. Studies have shown that CGM is associated with lower HbA1c readings, and less time spent in hypoglycaemia.1 CGM also brings advantages to the day-to-day self-management of diabetes, as found by Cameron, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes later in life. Here he shares the 3 features of his CGM device that have been key to managing his diabetes.
Then Came CGM – A Life Changer!
Before CGM, having to anticipate blood glucose (BG) levels was an hourly occurrence. I had to judge whether I was going high or low simply by the way I felt. Then came having to manage my nutrition, all for the main goal of stabilising my levels, and not to mention all the considerations with physical exercise! Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes late in life, the ritual of finger pricking multiple times a day quickly became a tedious chore which I soon tried to reject.
Then came CGM. A life changer! I’m a stereotypical guy and this means I would easily forget to check my BG levels, or otherwise be too tired or too busy. I needed a better way to manage my diabetes. This is when I was introduced to CGM, which now has me covered in more ways than one.
1. Levels at a glance
Using a CGM device allows me to check my levels at any time I choose. I can correct my insulin delivery at my own convenience without having to finger prick. I can track my daily trends which mean I can see if my levels are heading up or heading down. I could never do that before.
2. Alerts before lows
The biggest win is when I’m exercising. I used to suffer from hypoglycaemic episodes (hypos) in the gym. Now I can easily see my levels before and during a workout and I can catch a hypo before it happens, especially after a workout when my levels can drop quickly. This allows me to have a 24/7 transparent view of what’s going on. Now I have regular stable BG levels which are great for my health.
3. Less stress
These days, I don’t stress about managing my glucose levels. In fact, I’m so much better off because having to finger prick all the time doesn’t rule my day. A quick glance at my smart phone or notifications on my smart watch and I have all the information I need.
Final Thoughts
I don’t think I could ever manage my type 1 diabetes this well without the help of CGM. If you live with type 1 diabetes and struggle with daily fluctuating levels, then it may be worth talking to your diabetes healthcare team about whether CGM is a good fit for you. It can change the way you manage everything. I don’t want diabetes to rule my life and I think I may have found the solution!
References
- Aleppo G, Ruedy K, Riddlesworth T, Kruger D, Peters A, Hirsch I, Bergenstal R, Toschi E, Ahmann A, Shah V, Rickels M, Bode B, Philis-Tsimikas A, Pop-Busui R, Rodriguez H, Eyth E, Bhargava A, Kollman C, Beck R. REPLACE-BG: A Randomized Trial Comparing Continuous Glucose Monitoring With and Without Routine Blood Glucose Monitoring in Adults With Well-Controlled Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2017; 40 (4): 538-545.
This patient testimonial relates to an account of an individual’s response to treatment. The account is genuine, typical and documented. The views and opinions expressed are those of the patient or author and not representative of Medtronic or of any third parties referenced. The response other persons have to treatment could be different. Please speak with your diabetes healthcare team for information on whether the treatment is appropriate for you. *The information provided in this blog is an individual account specific to the writer’s experience in the management of their own diabetes. Before considering any changes to your diabetes management you must speak with your diabetes healthcare team.
*Editor’s note: This article has been adapted and reproduced from a post published on Medtronic Diabetes Australia.