Dexcom Mistakes - Learn from me and don’t do this…
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- čas přidán 7. 07. 2024
- Don’t make the same mistakes as I made when I started using my Dexcom CGM!
I made some major mistakes (not life-threatening though) when I started using my Dexcom CGM and in this video, I’ll walk you through 4 mistakes I’ve made, so you can learn from me and not have to make the same mistakes.
00:00 Introduction
0:35 Inserting the sensor before bed
1:53 Inserting when BGs are fluctuating
2:32 Chasing high or low
5:32 Relying 100% on the Dexcom readings
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I watched just in time I was going to change it tonight right before bed. Thanks
I have learned so much about dexcom 7 from your videos especially the first 24 hours. dexcom finally told me no changes the first 24 hours, if inaccurate that you should do 3 calibrations 15 min . apart to bring it on line properly. seems to work.
Thank you. The information you provided was most helpful.
Thank you so much for this!!! I have a newly diagnosed child and I've wanted to drive over his dexcom, lol. It's gotten better, but this video cemented all my thoughts. Thank you!
Excellent, personal experience information. So helpful.
Thanks for taking the time to note these tips.
You’re welcome
Yup, same here ! Thank you for the tips
Thank you for sharing, my little girl 10 yrs old was recently diagnosed with type1 diabetes and this is all new to us.
I have learnt alot from this video. Thank you. Regards Annie from the UK 🇬🇧.
I totally agree with the 4 things you talked about and have had a Dexcom G6 about two years and starting not to be so reactive to roller coaster BS. I find certain foods help lower my BS and I don't need insulin to bring it down. Like protein shakes 30 gm protein or nuts, without sugary coating. I wish they would make the overlay patches bigger and better, I call with that suggestion.
Thank you so much for putting this out. I'm new to the Dexcom G6 - have only been using it now for a week. Your tips are invaluable. It also is extremely helpful to read the other comments. The one about inserting a new sensor the day before the old one expires, I think will be a goto procedure moving forward. My first impression of the unit was good, however after getting sensor errors , wild readings and having to change out the sensor 3 days early. Makes complete trust an issue. The way you explained how the sensor works with the fluid, and lags the blood makes perfect sense, and it is something that I saw when double checking readings with my old meter. Thanks again !
Awesome!!! Glad this made sense and that both the video and comments were helpful. But yes, total trust issues. My current sensor has been way off more than once these last 10 days so I’ve been doing a lot of finger sticks. It’s frustrating because I know that lack of trust will carry over to the next sensor. But still wouldn’t want to be without it
Thanks for the advice, I’ve just started using the G7, and you make some great points!
Thank you for this, I'm going to share this with my in-law who sometimes watches our T1D toddler. She has a harder time adjusting to waiting for levels to regulate after doses or after low snacks. Like you mentioned when you first started, you'd react right away to changes with highs or lows, she also does that. I also like to not just look at numbers or the arrows, but the trend on the graph. Like, it might show an up/down or diagonal arrow, but the trend on the graph says something else and it takes time for the dexcom to catch up to what's actually happening. We try to explain this stuff to her, but sometimes it's harder hearing info from relatives than from experienced strangers. :) Appreciate you!
Thank you, I hope the video helps getting the message through
I really appreciate the information you provide and how it is presented!
Glad it was helpful!
Your comments about the fast acting insulin timelines I started to finally be able to truly understand now that I've got this set. Thank you for verifying that my questioning something as trivial as this IS an important step and that I am seeing things in a properly formed line myself, "thinking it through", as you call it. This makes me feel better that I am asking the right questions. Thank you very much.
You’re so welcome. Yes! Always ask questions. The better we understand this condition the easier it becomes to see the path to how we each best manage it
Thank you so much for this video! I was on the roller coaster for quite awhile. Thanks for helping me off it!
Thank you so much for the information. I am on my first Dexcom7 sensor and yes I have been scared when my reading was too low but my meter was right. I rely on my meter more than the senior. Thanks again
Great tips as always, thank you !!
Thanks and thank you for watching
Thank you. I just got G6. I appreciate your sharing your experience.
This is hugely helpful! Thank you!
Yay, that’s great!
Thank you. Reaffirm what i am learning
I just started my CGM last Monday, and I love it, your video's have been extremely helpful to me
Great to hear!
These are helpful tips I’ll apply to my Libre 2 - which I love.
Thank you for this information, I actually considered everything your touched on. Before inserting for my first G6, which was only 10 days ago. I am due to change the sensor in 1 hour, which is 2 hours after lunch. I also find that this is the best time for a new sensor insertion, As you explained in this video, and it has been my routine since I started using the G5 2 years ago. I’m loving the G6, and love the fact you don’t have to finger prick twice after warm up. Best advise for sure, thanks again
Mel t1d for 30 years from Australia 🦋😊
Thank you, glad it resonated and that you’re happy with your Dexcom
I wonder why I never have any problems like this… blessed
Thank you so much for this advice! We have been chasing high blood sugars because we treat the low messages right away, we are going to try your advice, I believe this will help.
I like what you said about chasing your blood sugars around because you're following the Dexcom instead of pausing for consideration.
Your videos have been very helpful. Just started on my 2nd sensor, so only using 11 days. I have checked my CBG when I thought the sensor was wrong but then stopped doing the CBGs thinking I should just use the dexcom. Watching your videos the last 2 days, you have taught me so much! I'm a type 2 for 18 years and everyone should realize there are always new tricks to learn!
I'm so glad the content has been helpful
Just starting with a G7. Greatly appreciate the tips that keep me from making the same mistakes.
Can you tell me if the G6 is a good GCM ! Thanks .
Great tips!
I thank you so much. I have been scared so many times and run straight to the candy bowl then up you go! thank you again for this information
Ha! I’m so glad I found your video. My son got his Dexcom sensor a week ago and I’m just now learning about the adding or subtracting 30, 60, 90 based on the arrow(s). Since we got it we’ve been totally relying on the numbers. If we get a low or extremely high I verify with finger poke. I found the G6 guidelines online. Thankful for finding your channel
Thank you! I'm so happy to hear that you find it helpful
Thank you for the video. I am new to the Dexcom CGM G6 system and trying to learn the system. I have had many failed sensors because of my blood thinner causing considerable bleeding under the sensor. After 3 months I changed everything and forgot to enter the new transmitter code, makes for bad night. Again thanks Don
Thanks for sharing 👍🏾 tips were very helpful 😊
Just started on G6. The big mistake I made was pressing to hard when I pressed the button and of course bled bad. Press hard when getting it to stick but lighten the pressure when you press button. Should just be holding lightly against skin at that point.
Bleeders are readers! 🫶
This could be a good tip to use. I had a big bleed the last time I inserted my G6 sensor. Total waste of sensor as it has to be removed in order to stem the blood flow. Now I'm once bitten, twice shy as I haven't inserted a new sensor for 3 days now, just relying on finger stick tests.
I did the very same thing cause my thinking was, you really want the wire (needle) to get way down in there. I did it for a few years
You've taught me a lot. I was a blood sugar chaser when I first got this CGM. It made no sence to me. My A1C has been 6.0 for a while now. All of a sudden the fluxuaction made me feel like I was out of control. Your vudeo makes everythimg make sence. Thanks so very much for what you do.
Thank you for that comment. I can completely relate to that feeling. Glad it made sense
I sure needed to hear your video since I am about to get a CGM! Thank you!
Thanks. I've had the same problems. I just started using my Dexcom G6.
Very good video, plenty of good advice. I have taken some of your suggestions, and you are 100% correct. You are great !!!
That’s great! I’m so glad it’s helpful
Thank you so much, Ive been T1 for 56 years and I just started the omnipod and dexcom 6. Ive been on Medtronic for years I do like the set up but getting used to the dexcom can be tricky as all pump equipment 😊 so I thank you!
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for sharing your experiences. I am new to insulin and dexcom 6, about 6 months now. I have already made all the "mistakes" you just highlighted in your video. I am learning but there's so much to learn. Your videos have been very helpful and informative. I am 60 and you know what they say about old dogs, lol
Thank you for watching, and good to hear that you've already moved past all of those little mistakes. Learning is a lifelong process, right? 🙂
Thank you so much
Thank you for the input ~
You rock, thx for the sage tips!
You bet!
I learned a lot from this video. I now understand the alarms. Glad it has them and is also flexible.
Good, I'm so happy to hear that
Thank you so much. I'm T2D and considering a CGM so I can be more aware of what my food intake does to my blood glucose. I have been successful in staying off meds for the last 11 years but now my diet isn't the best and I need to smarten up! I believe the CGM will really help me!
Eating less trash will help you.
Thanks for the info
Thank you. I have had issues regarding digestion and chase, or surf my numbers until recently. Your explanation on timing is much appreciated. I wind up diving hard at night because of using those readings. This is great. Calibration helps too and reminds you to use your stix to check occasionally.
Glad it was helpful!
T1/LADA diabetic here. I've had my Dexcom G6 since March 2020 and it's been an absolute miracle in getting me to better control of my blood sugars!
I have gone through these mistakes, thus learned the hard way what happens and how to not do these mistakes anymore. I don't bolus/take fast-acting insulin as I'm doing great with long-acting alone, but I did go through the roller-coaster of the high/low when I was on fast-acting.
I always tell new CGM users to double check highs/lows via finger stick so you're treating your blood sugars accurately, and stopping to think and assess that situation before treatment.
I've found my Dexcom has helped me better understand and become aware of my lows, via physical symptoms, and how accurately it can alert me to check and correct. It also helped me discover I have severe insulin resistance due to how my blood sugars reacted to coffee and my CGM would go nuts for very high blood sugars!
Thanks for posting your videos and helping other diabetics! Sharing your experiences is a gift!
Thank you. And thank you for sharing
Good to know!! Just got my Dexcom and going to apply it today!
Hope you enjoy it!
Good information. And it also applies to the dexcom g7. I have been using the g7 since December 2023. And i did many of the things you said. Like i said, great video.
Thank you
Thanks, again for your videos. I love the G7 and it's definitely worth an immediately upgrade from G6. My Medicare insurance paid for 100% and 3 months of supplies. My local pharmacy filled it versus Duramed who I had to call monthly precisely on the 23rd and if I was 1 day early I was told to call back the next day. Though I loaded the app on my Apple 14 plus I love the new G7 receiver. It's light as a feather and very small. I'm not joined at the hip to my Samsung Fold 2 or my new Apple. I've had cellphones since '82 and not married to it versus my wife of 50 years. My wife watched your videos too and loved them. You're cute, funny, and very informative! Kudos.
Thank you 😊 And super happy to hear that you like your new G7
Thanks for the info. I have been on the Dexcom G6 for at least 5 years. You learn things all the time. I like the thinking it thru thought. Very good advise,
Great to hear!
Those were the same exact mistakes I was doing when I first got my Dexcom G6. I wanted to chuck it across the room with those annoying alarms lol. Thanks for the video!
Glad it’s not just me 😆
You're great;thank you.
Thank you this info😊
Thanks - new T1D diagnosis for my 20 yo daughter - great info😊
Thank you for this video. I'm new to dexcom G6. My sugars are all over the place. I really hate being woken up at night with alarms. Too high or too low. I'm going to insert the sensor during the day 2 hrs. before I eat lunch.
thank goodness I listened
Awesome info!!! This is the only place we have seen this information!
Thank you. Glad it was helpful
Great info. I use the other system but same info applies. Starting a new sensor when BS is stable and not after a meal is something I never thought about but will now keep in mind. Just thinking through the situation in terms of timing of insulin and food intake and not knee jerking a response to an abnormal reading is very important. These systems are a great aid but not replacements for finger sticks and experience in interpreting results.
Great point, thank you for sharing
Thanks for the info. You're great!❤
You are so welcome!
Agreed. All the tips are great. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Awesome advice
Glad you think so!
I wish I hadhad watched this video earlier. Last night I changed my CGM at 9 PM and it woke me up three times for low blood sugar and each time I checked my blood glucose it was in the normal range. So I slept on the four hours last night and I have been very sleepy all day. Thank you so much for sharing this invaluable lesson.
Ugh, that’s so frustrating. I hope you sleep better tonight
Awesome information
This was super helpful.. I just got mine a few days ago and to be honest I wanted to rip it out and toss the whole system. Right now I have two sensors in right now, the dexcom and libre 2. The first two nights I was checking both and getting crazy differences in numbers. I didn't know which one to trust, I went through that roller coaster of chasing my highs and lows with food or insulin for 2 nights now and I haven't got a wink of sleep between the two meters beeping at me. Your advice is well appreciated and I hope it will help me get over the learning phase with this system. Thank you.
Oh no, I remember that frustration. I hope your experience gets better and glad this video could help. Thank you for watching
Very helpful.
WOW was your video enlightening! Thank you so much, it explains a multitude of things that I have experienced.
I'm so glad it was helpful
Thanks for your video, I just started on the dexcom 7 five days ago and was about to throw it out the window after one night. It kept alarming high and low no matter what I do.
I wasn't quite understanding how to use my dexcom to the fullest. But after reading and watching your video it has help me a lot. already I was able to sleep on the third night without turning off any of my alarm.and found it work well with me doing everything with more understanding.Thanks very much
That’s amazing. I’m so glad it helped
This was very helpful. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Great stuff thank you. Figured them out before video but great for someone who hadn't. You nailed the things i had issues with at first ..nice to see it on line.
Very welcome!
Thank you so much because my dexcom G6 monitor my sugar levels so fast my reading go up and down fast thank you so much beautiful with love ❤️❤️❤️
That was really helpful. I should have figured some of these things out myself after wearing a Dexcom for many, many years. It's good to hear a fellow user's advice. I know I'm a bit too quick to react. Also, the dexcom reading is minutes behind my actual blood sugar. I feel like I've met a new friend. Blessings on you.🎉
Thank you for watching. Makes me happy you walked away with the feeling of meeting a new friend, a dia-buddy 🙂
Thank you for this video. I am about to start using the cgm I received. I am looking forward to seeing what my results will be.
My new doctor mentioned this & I'm trying to research the ins & outs. Your tips sound very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for making this video
It's my pleasure 🙂
Thanks for all your help! I had a compression low and because I didn't know what it was I start glugging down sugary creamer. S learning from you what was actually happening was valuable beyond
Valuable!!
Glad it helped!
I've been using FreeStyle for a number if years now and am experimenting with to find out what I like the most. I've been changing my sensors at night before I go to bed and never had a problem with it. I'll think about how the timing is with eating the blood sugar level.
Am new to using G7 to manage pre diabetic condition. Thanks for the insights. It help me understand best time to put it on and how to more effectively monitor my results without overreacting. Thanks!!!
Happy to help 🙂 I switched to G7 recently and will start making more G7-focused content. Let me know if you’d like me to focus on anything specific
Thanks!
Thank you 😊
you are so awesome ty for this channel!
T2D: I am coming to the end of three years using the Libre ( 1 ) sensor, with great dissatisfaction (due to persistent low biases - my experience -- not reliable for making treatment decisions). I've spent hours reading about the various Libre sensors and the Dexcom sensors. One subtopic that has not been covered is experience with the Dexcom 6/ Tandem Tslim pump on a very low carbohydrate diet. It's hard for me to stick with that way-of-eating (WOE) but it really seems the best combination, owing to the presumption going forward that it will be a lot easier to remain in-range and require less reliance by me on the basal and bolus IQ technology.
I've watched the videos on the Tandem pump, and the people who 'love' it still complain about the things they hate about it - so, I'm dreading getting that pump at the same time that I'm going to be using a new sensor (G6). (In addition to T2D, I'm trying to adjust to chronic vestibular imbalance disorder and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency). I appreciate all the information that people contribute here and on FB.
Hi. I love your lessons on Dexcom G6.
Thank you, glad you like it
very informative
Glad it was helpful!
I've been using Dexcom CGM for about a year and before that I used the
Freestyle Libre System for a couple of years and I consider this to be
good advice particularly about starting a new sensor when your glucose
level is relatively stable and also about taking the readings with a grain
of salt for the first 24 hours.
Thank you
Yup
great information... been on G6 for a couple of years. Just switched to G7 and broke your first rule.... What a night of ups and downs.
😬
I like your comment,i learned a lot from your video, i was on that roller coaster, all the time highs, and lows , couldn't sleep checking my readings back to back so now i no just wait it out thanks a lot !!
You’re welcome. I’m so glad to hear you’re off the roller coaster
thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
Thank you ☺️
You’re welcome 😊
THANK YOU!!
You're welcome!
Thanks ❣️
These were excellent tips thank u.
You are so welcome!
Thank you 😊
You're welcome 😊
I'm new ...Very helpful advise thanks😊
I cannot express enough how much I have learned from diabetes strong. But I’m old and I have to be able to read your name to remember it accurately. I don’t see it right now on my screen lol seriously because if you I have.
I love my Dexcom CGM. Before I started wearing one I could never get my glucose numbers under control. Now it's just a matter of looking at the receiver. I have a tendency to ignore the high glucose alarms so I set the alarm notification relatively high. But my low alarm goes off at 80 because my numbers can drop rather quickly.
As far as insulin dosing I use a sliding scale my diabetes specialist developed to determine my insulin needs. I count carbs as part of the calculation. Before my meal I look at my number. I use 140 as the baseline. It prevents low readings during a meal.
The first number I calculate is how much above 140 my reading is. For every 5 points above 140 I take 1 unit of insulin. If my number is below 140 I don't take any insulin based on my number.
Then to that number I determine how many carbs are in the meal I'm going to eat. I use a scale of 1 unit of insulin for every 3-5 grams of carbs. However, each person has food(s) which will cause their blood sugars to spike (the foods which affect me the most are rice, white bread and corn). You will need to determine what foods are on that list and increase your insulin accordingly when you eat those food(s).
This sliding scale has resulted in an increase to my overall glucose numbers being within normal range to around 97 percent. Of course, part of this is due to me eating certain snacks or candy. My A1c has also dropped from around 8 to around 6. My diabetes specialist couldn't be happier.
One caveat. Using Medicare to pay for your CGM can be difficult, at best. Your prescriber has to jump through many hoops to get the CGM covered. If just one item on the application is wrong your provider may have to restart the process from the beginning.
Wow you are giving me even more reason to stop this dexcom meter I never had these problems with the libre my current one just broke and the doctor gave me this one to replace it the first time I changed the sensor it fell off in 3 days after several years with the libre I know how to handle that and I no longer had that problem but I sure didn't expect it to just fall right off so quickly if it is going to read that poorly in the first 24 hours I don't think I'm going to keep it
I still love my Dexcom (I also made a video about that), so please know this video is not to discourage anyone from using it, just an attempt to set expectations. It "can" be inaccurate the first 24 hours, but it's not consistent. However, if using the Libre works well for you I'd stick with it if you can. When I did a direct comparison I found Dexcom to be better but it also seems that the different monitors works differently depending on the person wearing them
Thank you for sharing your experience. My endo put me on Libre, but I like to know about other options also. The only alarm I have is to scan. I did ride the roller coaster with time in range. Trying to keep too tight of a range is how the diabetes nurse defined it.
Libre is a great product. See if you can upgrade to Libre 2 and you’ll get alarms as well. Time-In-Range (TIR) is the gold standard and a good thing to strive for.
Thank you for your continued support
I was on Libre 2 and I really liked it, I was switched in hope to get my A1C with better numbers. I just started 10 days ago so I had my first change of the sensor today.@@DiabetesStrong
Very informative!!
Thank you