Dexcom G6 is a wearable medical tracking device that empowers users to proactively and continuously monitor and manage their glucose levels without finger pricks. The device provides real time glucose data reading (updates every 5 minutes) and even allows real time data sharing which means family and/or friends that are worried, can monitor your blood sugar levels remotely and call for help if needed. The continuous tracking allows your doctor to monitor the trends and tailor your medications better. Dexcom G6 is safe for pregnant women.
This is our nurse Margaret’s* personal review of her experience using Dexcom.
“I found Dexcom to be very beneficial for diabetic patients like me, whether you are newly diagnosed or pre-existing. I have non-diabetic friends who chose to get Dexcom because it helps them keep track of their sugar and better manage their health.”
Margaret was diagnosed with diabetes 5 years ago, “I wish I had started Dexcom earlier! It allows regular tracking without having to keep pricking my finger. Continuous tracking means I can see how certain food and activities interact with my blood sugar level which in turn helps me adjust my intake and lifestyle.”
The Dexcom device sends readings to an app which can be connected to your smart devices, the real time glucose data which updates every 5 minutes provides invaluable insights into the readings of your glucose levels, it can also predict and alert users when levels are likely to rise or fall beyond a pre-defined healthy range. This means users have the ability to avoid high and low blood sugar incidents (also known as hyper and hypo episodes).
Essentially, it serves as a reminder for when to cease or initiate eating, empowering users to manage their blood glucose more effectively.
“This is particularly beneficial for individuals like myself who have diabetes and struggle with control, as well as for those who have recently begun treatment. It enhances understanding of how medication impacts blood sugar levels. The prediction tool is so good as it tells me when to stop and start eating. This is helpful for diabetics like me with poor control and for those who just started on medication,” Margaret emphasizes.
From a user perspective, Margaret feels that it was very easy to operate. Margaret recalls, “The app is easy to install and the nurses will help you step by step on the process. Also you have to take note that It takes 2 hours for the sensor to warm up and start giving glucose readings. Depending on your lifestyle, you may want to be thoughtful choosing the location to place your Dexcom. I got mine applied at the back of my upper arm, as I am a side sleeper and it did bother me initially. The discomfort is more on the thought that there is a soft tiny needle pierced into your skin, which I got used to eventually. I am personally so used to it now, that I forget I am wearing it, I am only reminded when I accidentally bump into a person or object. And even when that happens, I don’t feel uncomfortable.”
The sensors need to be replaced at least every 10 days, to do this, users pull apart the sticky edges and lift it up. The application and removal can be done by the users themselves – with our nurses’ guidance for the first time. Once removed, there is sticky residue on the skin which can be cleaned with alcohol swabs, adhesive remover or washing with soap and water.
Margaret reminds, “Do check with your insurance first if this is covered in your policy. Although mine has chronic conditions coverage, it did not cover Dexcom.”
*Name has been changed to ensure privacy.
