Why sensor glucose and blood glucose won't always match
Many of you have been wondering why the glucose number on your pump or CGM receiver doesn't always match the number on your meter. To help give you a better understanding, this video explains why the two values will rarely match and are expected to be different. Have questions after watching the video? Let us know in the comments below.
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It's absurd that Medtronics says not to enter too many BGs when calibrating the sensor. A person's most recent BG is the best indicator of BG available and it is ridiculous it can't be used for calibrating. Medtronics should do better than that for patients, particularly in light of its sky high prices.
Michael, I’m sorry you’re disappointed with the sensor calibration. We do recommend calibrating your sensor 3 to 4 times throughout the day for optimal sensor performance. I understand your concern about the cost of CGM. Medtronic is actively working with various groups, including professional and patient societies, Government Affairs, and industry partners, to address the lack of coverage and payment for CGM technology. Our goal is to ensure consistent access for anyone with diabetes who can benefit from insulin pump and/or CGM therapy, as well as continue to develop more advanced diabetes management technology. We also suggest that you talk with your health care team so they can help advocate for CGM coverage on your behalf. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with.
@Michael Winter..OMG..I am glad someone else see's exactly what's going on. I myself was thinking the exact same way!
I was starting to feel like a pin cushion from having to give myself up to 8 injections a day. I have had an insulin pump for just over 4 years now and what a pleasure it is to deal with my diabetes now. One stick every 2.5 days now! My insurance company just agreed to purchase the new system with CGMS and now I really have a chance to control my diabetes like I want. I can't wait to get the new system and have it working.
Hi Robert, I am so happy to hear you’re doing well on insulin pump therapy, and are excited for you to start on the new system. Please let us know if you have any questions and keep us posted on your journey!
my inquiry: how long is it from the time that i ck my BG & realize it's low & i eat 2 compensate till the sensor "knows" it? right now, even when i already finished eating my sensor beeps "low" & wants 2 stop my insulin delivery pls expand & thks!
That’s a great question, Alicia. There may be a larger difference between your BG meter value and the sensor glucose reading when your glucose levels are changing quickly, such as after eating a meal or taking a bolus of insulin. I will have someone from my team connect with you to discuss your specific concerns. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with.
I just put a new sensor in (after numerous issues with them) and my pump/ SG says 2.2 mmol/L, when my BG is 7.2. There has been no major drops in my BG, and I don't know what to do (especially seeing the alert is going off constantly). I know if I try to calibrate it won't work. Suggestions?
Nicole, I’m sorry to hear you’re having issues with your new sensor. I see you’re in Australia. We’re the US team, but here are your local contacts who would be happy to help you out:
Email: australia.diabetes@medtronic.com
Telephone: +61 2 9857 9000
Toll Free: 1800 668 670
I’m on my third sensor in 3 days. The initial calibration on a new sensor is entered (105 bg). The sensor within minutes says I’m 60 bg, then 53 then 40 and dropping. I revive all of the alerts telling me my bg is dropping but I do not feel low and feel at the 105 level. I check my bg just in case it’s me and I’m still in the 100 bg range. I’m frustrated that I do everything correct, read the articles, watch the videos, wash my hands, etc only for the sensors to be up to 70 bg off.
I'm sorry to hear this, Dave. While we expect there to be differences in your sensor glucose and blood glucose values, I encourage you to reach out to our 24-Hour Technical Support team at 800.646.4633, option 1 to ensure your devices are functioning as designed. You can reach them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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