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If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly. But you also know how painful and inconvenient it can be to prick your finger multiple times a day. That’s why many people are looking for alternatives to the traditional fingerstick method of glucose testing. Prickless glucose monitors are devices that use sensors to measure glucose levels in other fluids, such as tears or saliva, or under the skin, without the need for finger pricks. These devices can provide continuous or on-demand glucose readings, and some can even alert you when your glucose levels are too high or too low. But how do users feel about these prickless glucose monitors? Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of some of the most popular devices on the market.
Freestyle Libre
The Freestyle Libre is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that uses a small sensor that is worn on the back of the upper arm. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which is the fluid between the cells. The sensor can be scanned by a handheld reader or a compatible smartphone app to get a glucose reading, as well as a trend arrow and a graph of the past eight hours. The sensor lasts for up to 14 days and is waterproof.
Many users enjoy the convenience and accuracy of the Freestyle Libre, as well as the ability to see their glucose trends and patterns. They also appreciate the painless and discreet application and removal of the sensor, and the fact that they don’t have to calibrate the device with finger pricks. However, some users also experience some drawbacks, such as skin irritation or allergic reactions from the sensor adhesive, inaccurate readings when the sensor is not warmed up or when the glucose levels change rapidly, and occasional sensor failures or malfunctions. Some users also find the device expensive, as it is not covered by all insurance plans.
Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 is another CGM system that uses a sensor that is inserted under the skin of the abdomen or the upper arm. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every five minutes and transmits the data wirelessly to a receiver or a compatible smart device, such as a phone, a watch, or a tablet. The sensor lasts for up to 10 days and is water-resistant.
Many users praise the Dexcom G6 for its accuracy and reliability, as well as its features such as customizable alerts, alarms, and reminders, and the ability to share the data with up to five followers, such as family members or health care providers. They also like the fact that the device does not require finger pricks for calibration or confirmation, and that the sensor insertion is easy and painless with an automatic applicator. However, some users also encounter some challenges, such as skin irritation or infection from the sensor insertion site, signal loss or interference from the transmitter, and high cost and limited availability of the device and the sensors.
Eversense
The Eversense is a CGM system that uses a sensor that is implanted under the skin of the upper arm by a health care professional. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every five minutes and sends the data to a transmitter that is worn on top of the skin. The transmitter then sends the data to a smartphone app that displays the glucose readings, as well as trends, alerts, and predictions. The sensor lasts for up to 90 days and is water-resistant.
Many users are impressed by the Eversense for its long-lasting and accurate sensor, as well as its features such as on-body vibration alerts, predictive alerts, and data sharing with up to five followers. They also appreciate the fact that they don’t have to worry about changing or losing the sensor, and that they can remove and reattach the transmitter as needed. However, some users also face some difficulties, such as the need for a minor surgical procedure to insert and remove the sensor, the possibility of sensor migration or infection, and the need for finger pricks for calibration twice a day.
In short, prickless glucose monitors are a great option for people with diabetes who want to monitor their blood glucose levels without the hassle and pain of finger pricks. However, they are not perfect, and they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Users should consult with their health care providers and do their own research before choosing the device that suits their needs and preferences best.
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