3 Tips To Help Your Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Stay On Longer
If you have diabetes, then your doctor might have recommended that you use a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGM). A CGM can help you stay safe and can help you better track and manage your diabetes. Overall, you might like the system, but one thing that you might not like is the fact that your CGM might not always stay attached to your body like you would like for it to do. If you're wondering how you can make your CGM stay on longer, these tips can help a lot.
1. Choose the Right Spot
Although your doctor might have recommended a specific spot for attaching your CGM, you can always consider moving it around. Many people attach theirs to their stomachs, for example, but if you put it in the wrong place, you might find that your CGM will interfere with your pants. This can cause discomfort and make it difficult to get dressed, and it can also cause problems with your CGM not staying in place. Consider moving your system by just an inch or two, if needed, so that it's in an out-of-the-way place that hopefully will not be affected by clothing or day-to-day activities. If you are unsure of whether or not you have chosen a good place for your CGM, ask your doctor for advice.
2. Make Sure Everything is Clean
Before putting on your CGM, you should make sure that everything is nice and clean. Your system will attach better to clean skin, for one thing. Plus, it's important to keep everything clean and sanitary to prevent infections. Along with wiping down the exterior of your system and using clean supplies, it's also important to wash skin in the application area and then swipe the area with an alcohol pad before attaching your CGM.
3. Use High-Quality Patches
Lastly, if you aren't currently using patches for your continuous glucose monitoring system, then you might have a hard time keeping it attached. Choose high-quality Dexcom patches if you can, since these will typically do a better job of keeping your system in place. You can even make things fun by choosing patches in your favorite color.
Wearing a CGM is a good way to keep yourself safe and healthy when you have diabetes, even if it can be a bit of a pain from time to time. Luckily, you may find that wearing your CGM is less of a hassle if you follow the tips above.
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