CGMS:

What is continuous glucose monitoring?

Continuous glucose monitoring system, also called CGMS, is a new way for people with diabetes to monitor glucose levels. CGMS measures glucose levels in the fluid between body cells every few minutes throughout the day and night. Most people who use CGMS have type 1 diabetes, and many also use an insulin pump. CGMS has a number of advantages over fingerstick testing. CGMS allows a person to check glucose levels without a blood sample. Cgms checks levels every one to five minutes. CGMS tells the user : What glucose levels are now What glucose levels have been over a set number of hours Whether glucose levels are on their way up or down How quickly glucose levels are rising or falling In addition, a CGM system sounds an alarm when glucose levels are too high or too low. Users can set the alarm to fit their personal glucose targets. Why is CGMS used? Fingersticks only show glucose levels at certain points in time.Fingerstick testing is like seeing photos of glucose levels to get a sense of what happened that day. In contrast, CGMS shows the ups and downs of glucose levels around the clock. It’s like watching a movie of glucose levels. Information about glucose trends helps users take steps to keep blood glucose levels in a safe range. Users can share reports from the CGM system with their health care team to guide any adjustments to their diabetes management plan. What can people expect from CGMS? Studies have shown that CGM can help people with type 1 diabetes keep blood glucose levels on target without an increased risk for episodes of severe low blood glucose (hypoglycemia). Staying on target can mean fewer health problems, day-to-day and in the long run.