Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for people living with diabetes. It helps you manage your condition in real time and adjust your food, medication, and activity to keep your blood sugar in a safe range. Regular checks also reduce the risk of dangerous highs (hyperglycemia) and lows (hypoglycemia).
Today, there are more blood glucose monitoring options than ever before. The two main types are finger prick tests and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Each has its benefits and limitations.
Finger Prick Tests
Finger prick tests have been used for over 50 years and remain a common method for checking blood sugar. To use them, you prick your finger, place a drop of blood on a strip, and insert it into a small meter that shows your glucose level.
All meters sold in Australia must meet international accuracy standards. Many are included in the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), which helps lower the cost.
These tests may work well for people with type 2 diabetes who don’t need to check their levels often, especially those not taking insulin. But for people who need frequent readings, pricking fingers several times a day can be painful and inconvenient.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
CGM has changed how many people manage diabetes, especially those using insulin injections or pumps. These systems involve a small sensor placed on the skin—usually on the arm or abdomen—that checks glucose levels every few minutes.
The sensor uses a tiny needle to detect glucose just under the skin. This information is sent to a device like a smartphone or reader, which shows the results. An algorithm converts the reading into an estimate of blood glucose.
CGM systems also meet global accuracy standards and have become more reliable and easier to use over time. Most have built-in alarms to warn users of high or low glucose levels, offering peace of mind, especially at night or while driving.
However, CGM has some downsides. The sensor tracks glucose under the skin, not in the blood directly, so there is a slight delay in the readings. Lying on the sensor or taking certain medications (like paracetamol or vitamin C) can affect accuracy. There’s also a one- to two-hour warm-up period after applying a new sensor.
Costs and Future Technology
Since 2022, CGM has been subsidized under the NDSS for people with type 1 diabetes. But those with type 2 diabetes still pay out of pocket—about A$50 per week.
Sensors last one to two weeks, depending on the brand, before needing replacement. Implantable sensors that last up to six months are in development but are not yet available in Australia.
Be cautious of unapproved glucose monitoring devices, such as some smartwatches, which lack scientific proof of accuracy.
Talk to Your Health Team
Before choosing a device, speak with your doctor, specialist, or diabetes nurse educator. They can help you pick the best monitoring method for your needs and guide you on how to use it effectively.
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