Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)

​

​

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a simple and effective way of managing Diabetes Mellitus.  Each insurance company has different rules for paying for these devices.  For example, Medicare requires you to be on some form of insulin or have frequent low blood sugar episodes. So, what is CGM?

 

Okay, let's imagine your body is like a car, and glucose (sugar) is your fuel. Your body needs the right amount of glucose to run smoothly, just like a car needs the right amount of fuel.

People with diabetes have trouble keeping their glucose levels in the right range. Too much or too little can cause problems.

​

What is a CGM?

​

CGM stands for Continuous Glucose Monitor. It's like a fuel gauge for your body that's always on.

Here's how it works, in simple terms:

1. Tiny Sensor: A tiny sensor is placed under your skin, usually in your belly or arm. It's like dipping a small sensor into your body's fuel tank.

2. Measuring Glucose: This sensor measures the glucose levels in the fluid just under your skin, all the time.

3. Transmitter: The sensor is connected to a small transmitter, worn on your body, that wirelessly sends the glucose readings to a receiver or your smartphone. Think of it like a radio that broadcasts the fuel level from the sensor.

4. Receiver/Smartphone: The receiver or smartphone displays your glucose readings. It's like your car's fuel gauge, showing you how much fuel (glucose) you have. You can see your current level, and it also shows trends – like whether your glucose is going up, down, or staying steady.

5. Alarms: CGMs can be set to alert you if your glucose is getting too high or too low. This is like a warning light on your car dashboard telling you if your fuel is dangerously low or if you've somehow overfilled your tank.

 

Why is it helpful?

• Real-time info: Instead of only knowing your glucose level when you prick your finger, you get constant updates. This helps you understand how food, exercise, and other factors affect your glucose throughout the day.

• Spotting trends: You can see if your glucose is rising or falling, which helps you take action to prevent problems. It's like knowing not just how much fuel you have, but also whether you're burning fuel quickly or slowly.

• Fewer finger pricks: While you may still need to prick your finger occasionally to calibrate the CGM, you'll do it far less often.

• Better control: With all this information, people with diabetes can make better decisions about their food, medication, and activity to keep their glucose levels in a healthy range. This can lead to better overall health and fewer complications from diabetes.

 

In short: A CGM is a tool that gives people with diabetes a much clearer picture of their glucose levels throughout the day and night. This helps them manage their diabetes more effectively, stay healthier, and improve their quality of life. It's a really helpful tool, like having a super advanced fuel gauge for your body!

 

If you want to know more, reach out and make an appointment.  You can do this by calling 609.200.0377 or e-amil us at info@anchorfhc.com.  You can also visit our website at www.anchorfamilyhealthcare.com.

 

 

 

My best wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and a Healthy Happy New Year.

 

Will

William C. Krasner APN, FNP-C

Primary Care Provider