Continuous Glucose Monitoring Service in Webster and Pasadena, TX

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a device that diabetic patients can wear that will constantly monitor blood sugar levels. This is great for patients who require the use of insulin as you will no longer have to prick your finger multiple times per day, and your sugar levels will be easily accessible at all times. This also means that patients can make dietary choices easier because they will always have an accurate idea of their current blood sugar levels. CGM devices can vary in the amount of time they can be worn, but the location of them can vary based on where the patient would like to have them placed, some patients may choose to have the device on their bicep, while others would like them a little bit more hidden can place them on their lower abdomen.

CGM “real-time” devices will store and display your glucose levels (blood sugar levels) whenever you are looking to see where they are. There are also CGM “intermittent- scans” that estimate your glucose levels continuously, but to store this data and get an accurate reading you will need to use the receiver or your smartphone every few hours to view it. It is important to remember that the devices do not inject insulin and those who are looking for continuous insulin management will still need to use an insulin pump in conjunction with their use of the continuous glucose monitor.

Continuous glucose monitors are an option for those who have type 2 diabetes, type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes, or, in some cases, those who are pre-diabetic based on your doctors’ decisions. Age is also a small factor, as there are CGM devices on the market that can work for patients as young as 2 years old, or there are more advanced glucose monitoring devices available to those over 18. Your prescribing doctor will discuss with you the best options available, and your comfort level with the use of these devices to determine what is going to be best for your unique situation.

The duration of a continuous glucose monitor will be based on the type of monitor being used and the monitor style. Disposable continuous glucose monitors will need to be changed between 7 and 14 days based on the brand being used, while those who are implantable can last up to 180 days before needing to be changed or recalibrated. It is possible to notice some skin irritation in the area from the adhesive used, and if you begin to notice this, your prescribing physician may be able to offer you some different options, or they may be able to prescribe topical medications to treat the irritated skin.

Continuous glucose monitors are much more costly than self-monitoring glucose systems, but some patients may have coverage from their medical insurance to reduce or cover the costs of their CGM. If you are looking to have a CGM for your diabetes, you should reach out to your insurance provider to see the level of coverage you will have, if you will have to co-pay with your insurance, and get an estimate of your costs of having a CGM device.

Patients may be concerned about the price of using a CGM, but you should remember there are benefits to the use of these devices you would never have while using a self-monitoring glucose device, as you will no longer have to prick your finger multiple times per day, you can get accurate data on your glucose levels whenever and wherever you are, and depending on your device placement, it is also very discrete. If you are looking to move to a continuous glucose monitoring device, our medical professionals at Primary Care of Clear Lake will go over all of your concerns, answer any questions you have, and make sure that you are making the best-informed decision when it comes to the use of a continuous glucose monitor. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Webster and Pasadena, TX. We serve patients from Webster TX, Pasadena TX, South Houston TX, Brookwood TX, Seabrook TX, Bacliff TX, and surrounding areas.