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.
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'm different. Type 1 Diabetic here. I'm on a Tandem T Slim X2 Insulin pump with Control IQ via the G6 and I have a number of things I do differently that have worked for me quite well for the most part. I've been using the G6 since it came out in 2018. First, I heavily rely on the Dexcom readings, including within the first 24 hours and when my BG numbers fluctuate, in most situations. Because of that, I barely ever use finger sticks. Would I recommend it for everyone? No. But, it works well for me. The main thing I'd say regarding relying on just the CGM data is it depends on what type of Insulin you use and how often you are using it. Since I'm on a pump with Humalog which is pretty mild in how it is absorbed into the body, I don't see any massive drops in BG that might cause me to want to react quickly. I'd say if you were going to rely mostly on the CGM readings, I would only recommend it if you're on a Pump. Second, I still have the habit of reacting to my surges and my lows, although more-so surges. Due to this, I do have the occasional low spells that either get suspended and prevented from being bad with my Pump's Control IQ setting, or a short low that eventually goes away as the food and other variables in my body react. However, the overall % of lows isn't too insane and I mostly don't have the rollercoaster effect too often unless I'm having relatively high carb meals that tend to be less healthy and react in odd ways to my BG. My A1C is 5.6% and had been 5.8% for many years and within great range since shortly after diagnosis. Third, you need to give yourself time to learn how food affects your BG by keeping an eye on trends with your CGM. Everyone's body is different and one person may have a totally different reaction to meals compared to others, and with that comes more or less variability in their numbers throughout the day. The variability is where the problems happen and if you're on a pump at least, you can fine tune your ratios (carb ratio, correction factor, etc.) to reduce that variability immensely and that should lead to a smoother CGM usage scenario in the long run. The main thing I focused on was building up my understanding of how different foods affected my BG and then that helped me build up trust in the CGM values themselves until I got to a point where I could pretty much anticipate and understand every variation in my numbers with the CGM and make up for any gaps that may be there. What I've noticed is the less often you calibrate your CGM, the less often you -need- to keep calibrating it. It's meant to be factory calibrated once you receive it, so it theoretically doesn't require (many) manual calibrations. I've very rarely had to calibrate mine at all and its worked great and the values I've seen have pretty much always represented the values that I've gotten from my glucometer. Lastly, I need to emphasize insertion location. I used to have a lot more variability and also sensor failure incidents when I used my G6 in my stomach region as they recommend. Once I switched to Arm insertion, my sensors all last me 10 full days with zero issues the entire 10-day period. I also notice that the CGM glucose readings are overall more consistent as well because the sensor isn't moving around within my body too much, and I did have one time when I used to insert into the stomach where Dexcom was able to pinpoint that my sensor failed because of body tissue in my stomach blocking the signal. It basically got moved around so much with regular movement of the body to a point where it damaged the signal to the sensor and caused a failure. (This was very early in the release of the G6 when they actually used to give very precise details of why a failure happened. They stopped doing this like a month or two after release of the G6, I noticed.) Overall, I am really looking forward to the G7 as it is made for Arm usage and is so much smaller than the big and clunky G6, which is already so much smaller and thinner than the G5. Now, for Type 2 Diabetics, I think there is a lot to gain from using a Dexcom CGM. Why? Connected bluetooth smart pens. If you have to inject some insulin daily for your meals, some pens nowadays actually integrate directly with the Dexcom CGM and it can make finding the right treatment plan for you so much easier. The connected pen space is only going to grow quicker and quicker as time goes on. Also, just having the CGM readings as a T2D will help with figuring out trends and understanding how food affects you. That's the most valuable thing I've gotten from the Dexcom CGM myself even as a T1D - understanding how different food affects me so I can make the right treatment decisions for my own needs. Good luck out there and thanks for this informative video!
Hi, I just have a question for you regarding arm insertion. I always found outer arm (or inner arm, for that matter) w the medtronic G3 to be a good spot, but I’m having trouble w pump not being able to read the sensor, even though it’s only on my waist band (on the same side as the arm where sensor is inserted). Do you have any suggestions on this? Thanks, your tips are great & I’m finding this channel to be fantastic. I like how T1s seem to stick together (we have to, right?) - 41 years for me & I’ve always been a fan of ‘aggressive treatment’, hence the closed loop system - the second one for me. I ‘put all my eggs in this basket’, so to speak, expecting the Tandem system to be great but I’m having a lot of trouble these first few weeks.
@@robin31165 Sorry for the late reply. Sory to hear you're having trouble with the arm insertion. It sounds to me like you may be inserting in some muscle, possibly. The place I put it is a couple inches below the shoulder on the fatty side of the underpart of the arm. So, looking in a mirror, I just look for that area and make sure it is fatty and insert it. It usually has no issues, but what I also do is I have it connected to both my phone and my pump. Occasionally, it will very briefly have an issue with signal loss for a second, but that isn't often nor lasts long. And if it happens, my phone usually still has signal. Are you finding that your sensors are failing, or just having some signal issue occasionally?
@@TheHanStudios firstly, absolutely, no reason to apologize - I certainly wouldn’t call this a late reply! With my arm, the problem I was that having was losing signal when the sensor was on my upper arm (pretty much in the fatty part) & my pump was in on my waist (on the same side). Yesterday I put it in my thigh, for the first time ever & so far it’s working out really well, but I will keep in mind interior part of my arm, because I always liked that spot in the past. Is that what you mean when you say “underpart of the arm“? And thank you SO much for responding, I always feel like I can rely on other T1s for help - there’s just some sort of community feeling about living w his condition (that I refuse to call it disease!)
@@robin31165 Indeed. It’s kind of hard to explain but yeah. I look in the mirror and put the sensor on the side below my shoulder. Not too far down and it usually ends up slightly facing on the underside of my shoulder/arm. It may just be individual body dynamics but mine usually end up being ok and not having issues. It could also be possible that your sensors are faulty and you can ask dexcom for replacements. Good luck!
Thanks for the advice. I had a low sugar on my dexcom. I did a fingerstick. It wasn't90 but 174. So I calibrated. Then it was152. I'm glad I thought out my decision.
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 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!
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 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!
so you can't force a reading more frequently than 5 minutes? As a Libre 2 user that makes absolutely no sense. Even if my CGM is 10 minutes behind at least I can see the trend sooner -that is a huge. I feel the Libre 2 system has issues with sensor integrity but you should be able to request a reading when you ever you want.
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.
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
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.
I definitely used a separate meter often when I was on the G5 for calibration. Being on the G6 and soon switching to the G7, I rarely use a separate meter. I'm not suggesting that others shouldn't. I've been able to keep my A1c in the mid-5s with plus 85% time in range over 3yrs now, though.
I have the G7 and for the first few days I checked with a separate meter to compare accuracy. The G7 is very accurate and I barely use my other glucose meters. My A12 is also in the 5’s
Biggest Dexcom G6 mistake I've made was getting ready to put on the DX6. I scanned the code, broke off the tab, put the applicator on my stomach, hit the button, click and then click and the sensor fell to the floor. I freaking forgot to take off the tabs that cover the adhesive. Wasted an entire sensor. SO AGGRAVATING!!!
I’ve been wearing a Dexcom six for three years now and have until the last few months reasonable accuracy. But I’ve received a number of transmitters in the last six months seven of them have been defective. Dexcom has replaced them, and even given me a additional sense transmitter do the fact that they’re having problems with the Dexcom transmitter’s. I’m switching to the Dexcom seven at the end of the month, so just be aware of a bad batch of transmitters.
I respectfully disagree with the first tip in this video. Inserting the Dexcom just before bed is actually the second best time to insert it. That is because the best thing that can increase the accuracy of the sensor is to reduce the inflammation at the insertion point. Anti-inflammatory cream and NSAIDS work, but REST is the best way to reduce that inflammation which is essential to accuracy and success. The absolute best way is for a parent or caregiver to insert it whilst the patient is actually asleep and says asleep.
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.
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!
My wife wanted the Dexcom so she wouldn't need to do finger sticks. It was advertised that way, so you can't really blame her. She didn't realize how the system works, the use corrects high readings with insulin injection. She doesn't use injections of insulin! She's trying to control glucose with diet. Things are getting better, I'll check back later.
Great to hear your wife is trying to control the glucose with diet. Wishing her all the best. I am 31 and just found out about being diabetic. I am on insulin now and do not like it.
I was diagnosed as Type 1 in April after being treated as Type 2 for 4 years. Because I learned to manage blood glucose levels through diet, the transition to insulin was easy after a few weeks of reacting to every high and low on my CGM device. Now, I combine diet, exercise and insulin effectively and, over the last 3 months, have an A1C of 5.7% and am in range (3.9 - 10) 98% of the time. I achieve this by maintaining a daily chart of all foods (carbs, calories, and fats,) meds, exercise and general health along with blood glucose readings and insulin doses. This has allowed me to recognise what foods 'set me off', what foods are low release and so on. I use my CGM only has a continuous indicator and go to blood glucose readings before meals or if a low or high are indicated. In the UK, the NHS still require blood glucose monitoring in conjunction with a CGM such as Dexcon of Freestyle; and DVLA requires all drivers treated with insulin to record blood glucose reading within 2 hours of driving and repeatedly during long journeys. The CGM device should not be treated as an escape from blood glucose tests but a means to support a more accurate treatment regime.
Sure wish I would have seen this before I inserted it for the first time last night before bed. LOL NOT fun. I ended up turning off my Bluetooth and connecting it again in the morning.
Thank you for this!! These are the types of tips that neither my endocrinologist nor my diabetes nurse educator have given me. Your Number 1 tip is excellent as well as your "think it through" guidance. I find the television commercials for the Dexcom G6 to be quite misleading as the people featured make a big point in their mini-testimonials that they no longer need finger sticks from their blood glucose meters. Perhaps the tiny, tiny, tiny wording shown at the bottom of the television screen which appears for about two seconds suggests people still need to double-check their glucose levels with finger sticks when prudent to do so. I find the G6 very useful in controlling my glucose levels, but still don't trust it, especially in those first 24 hours when readings can get quite goofy. This is one of the reasons I hesitate to consider an insulin pump, especially one that works in tandem with the G6. Again, thank you for this important video. Please keep up the good work.
Thank you and you’re welcome. We can learn so much from each other and I appreciate all the comments on my videos. I understand the pump hesitation, we can of course turn off the Tandem IQ functionality until the sensor has stabilized, but using that functionality does require a lot of trust
@@DiabetesStrong Thanks Christel. You hit the nail on the head. This indeed requires a lot of TRUST with the G6. It reminds me of President Ronald Reagan's famous expression when negotiating nuclear weapons reduction with the Soviets in the 1980's. He said "Trust, but verify." Good advice in general and applicable to glucose readings. With occasional well-off-the mark G6 readings in the first 24 hours of insertion and beyond, I keep one trusted glucose blood meter at home and another one in my car, each my as-needed back-up and verification tools. Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year.
My PCP and endocrinologist seem competent enough but I often get the feeling that my doctors have no real feeling what it's like to live with the daily uncertainties of type 1 diabetes. "You need to get your A1C down and get more exercise" is not a prescription; it's a general platitude. Everything that I've ever done to improve the management of my disease I have initiated and worked out the details myself. BGM, MDI, multiple insulins - all are things I started doing out of pocket before my doctor's understood these were "things". I had to ask for my first A1C test. I read clinical trial reports, tech journals covering noninvasive sensors engineering trials, and the 2022 National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support - before my doctor's are aware they exist. All that "book learning" is of limited value without specific guidance how to apply it. I'm fortunate that RU-vid exists and that there are many persons with diabetes, CGM and pump users from around the world, sharing their experience through RU-vid and forums, not influenced as paid endorsers, and not constricted by professional guidelines and what the FDA has authorized. I learned more about the real practical aspects of CGMs and pumps in 2 weeks online, identifying their common problems and insights than I could have learned on my own in 2 years, or ever learned from my doctor's or the makers of the equipment . I know that I was very fortunate to meet a diabetes educator who has had type one diabetes since she was a teenager and been wearing pump for more than 10 years and using a CGM for a few. If not for meeting them, I wouldn't have opened my mind about updating my management tools. I wouldn't be wearing a CGM now and wouldn't be getting a pump. But even they are limited in what they know and they believe they are allowed to tell me. They want to "stick by the book". I want to be doing what new books are written about.
@@psdaengr911 that’s a great comment. And I’m very much onboard, my endo is amazing, but most of my daily practices I’ve deduced myself but reading (a lot) and a lot of trial and error
I ve been a diabetic for 31 years. I've was using g the Libre but have switched over to the G5 Dexcom reciently. I have to say I love it. ❤️ the sensor is a little bigger than the Libre but I find it sticks WAY better than the Libre. Love the notifications when high and low. (Especially low due to I can not feel when I'm dropping any more.) The only thing that I do not like is that I need to carry another machine to test my glucose readings. Wish it was all on the machine it self. (I can not carry my phone at work) other than that the G5 is amazing so far. 😁
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
You are correct and Dexcom recently removed SEVERAL phones that were fully compatible.. mine is not longer compatible and the representative that I spoke to from Dexcom said do not get a new phone that is compatible with the G6 because when the G7 comes out it may not be compatible with it! 😬
Was given a Dexcom by the VA...the first couple of weeks were crazy because no one explained that the transmitter last for 30 days and sensor only 10 days. Had accidentally gone through a couple of sensors and transmitters. But I research videos such as this one and read up more about the Dexcom, I can agree with some of what was said here.
Hi, I was given the run around from the start. First my provider recommended Dexcom. The pharmacist disapproved and suggested I be started with the Libre CGM. I then had to have an appointment with a Dr. in the Diabetes Department who recommended and Dexcom. Once again the Pharmacist disapproved and suggest the Libre. I was then advised that I had to attend a Diabetes Education Class before being approved for the Libre. After attending the class I then had to wait another week before the sensor for the Libre was mailed to me. I told the Pharmacy that my iPhone had an IOS of 16.6.1 and the Libre was not comparable. I then called Abbot Industries and was told that I could load the Libre App on my phone but their would be certain portions of the Libre CGM that would not work properly. I put the sensor on and this was 6 days ago. Needless to say I have been on a roller coaster for the past 6 days. High alarms at night and then all the way down to 61 at night. Had my bags packed and was getting ready to go to the hospital. I then remembered about the Glucose tablets. Took 4 the first night. That ran the numbers up to the high 240s. Same thing happened last night and had to take 12 glucose tablets through out the night. Up and down, Up and down. This morning I sent a message to my Provider at the Naval Hospital to see if he could get me a Dexcom G7 Kit. I am waiting for the results now. I am almost ready to give the Libre sensors that I have back to the VA. Terrible experience. Glad to hear you had no dazzles. Wish me Luck.@@devildogcrewchief3335
I’m using the G6. What I don’t like is the 20 foot Bluetooth range. I can’t understand why CGMs were given such a lousy range. Plus the Dexcom G6 starts to peel off after a day or 2 and Dexcom didn’t make an arm band. The over Patches make the Peeling issue worse. Plus I do hate the 2 hour warm up period.
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.
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!
Is it Christa or something else? I go through the very same things but slowly learning. When my sugar starts to go up, I drink more water which helps to control it & bring it down. Have you heard of this? You provide very good information on your site.
Thank you. Yes, dehydration can make blood sugars rise, so yes, water can help. However, you still need to have some insulin circulating or it won’t do anything- Christel
I just got one today. And Dr told me to instal the app on my phone and for some reason dexcom has stoped supporting many phones... This sounds like they are pushing folks to buy there device. Get im gonna pull this baby out and forget it..
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.
Interesting. Just bought Dexcom. I had three libre2s fail on me. I used to chase my levels, but I'm slower to react now, unless I am plunging low. The libre seems to be accurate though. It reckoned my A1c was 6.1 (sorry, use metric) and my actual test said 6.2. Doc is very happy. I will insert my Dexcom in a week and see how I go.
Unfortunately inaccuracy is not a general issue with cgms but specific to Dexcom. Never had vastly inaccurate readings with Libre, not even in the first hours after attachment or when esting beforehand etc. Dexcom is just not as good in real life, it’s as simple as that. I had both and there was always trouble with Dexcom. Also the bluetooth connection is horrible as is the adhesive and the size. The only bummer with Libre is that it doesn’t have secondary alarms and the Omnipod compatibility. Let’s hope for the future! 🤞🤞
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.
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.
Thank you for your information. I always find it very helpful. I have been a T1D for 2 years now and I quickly react to the double arrows either way. I am so happy to hear your information. It will help me get off the rollercoaster too. Also, I would like to know if you have ever covered workouts highs and lows. I just started working out in a gym and I go real high after my workouts. I usually turn my pump to exercise mode during some point of my workout. Any videos on workout situations? Thank you!
Thank you, I’m glad it’s helpful. And excited to hear you’ve started a new workout routine. I have a few videos covering exercise, this is the most detailed ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-11XbiAawXyE.html
I have the G6 and i can count on 1 hand how many times it lasts for 10 days. Too many sensors errors . Or loss of contact when my phone is right near me, unfortunately gets very aggravating. A lot of times with the sensors it will give me a sensor error when it's either showing too low or too high, hoping it turns on soon. . I just changed it the 14th and it is giving me the sensor error. I can only use the G6 on my belly. Hoping the G7 works differently and better
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.
On FSL right now. Have been on DG6 also. Actually looking into going back. Personally for me inserting New sensor two days before old one ends. The two days works so well for me. But FSL can tend to get wonky a few days before it is scheduled to be changed. Sort of can’t win
I have dexcom unfortunately no longer can monitor my blood sugars because it's not combatable with new phones. So I just gave up diabetes is too expensive and makes life pointless to live.
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
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
Thank you sweetheart for the warnings. I'm really on the fence with this G6. Sounds to me having over 37+ years suffrage of the condition it seems by your report it's not going to be better. I'm well versed with High's, Low's moderation and balance. The lack of accuracy is disturbing. What does that inhalable insulin like? Band-Aids like how Insulin in general smells? Beautiful; art work behind you! Did you do that? All the very best, john
Afrezza, inhaled insulin, is great. I don’t find it has any taste or side effects. And thank you, I did love that piece (had to sell it when I moved) but didn’t make it
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 🦋😊
I've been on my Dex for about 1.5 years. T1 since 1985. Was on the 670G for 4 yrs prior to Dex. The Dex is seriously a vast improvement over the 670G. Not fair to compare current technology to 1st ever technology. Wish my insurance paid better for the Dex. My out-of-pocket is a lot more. But it is worth it. I wish I could silence some of the alarms. Mine alerts me if I'm going through 150, whether up or down. If coming down, I don't need to be alarmed that I'm now 150. This next complaint is more of an issue with the Tandem X2: there needs to be a way to 100% silence the pump no matter what, even if it is just for a limited time like 30-minutes. In our world today, kids might have to hide for safety purposes. Having a pump alarm could be deadly for them. Also I speak to groups of customers for my job. I should be able to silence high blood sugar alarms, instead of every 5-minutes needing to tell the pump "I know....still high".
Well, thank you I watch the other guy that you did a video with the bald guy. He made me laugh. Specially, this all the places we can put it. I have scar tissue on my belly but I have put it on at night and lately I’ve been on a bad roller coaster, and I have put it on when I eat so I’m gonna give everything you said I’ll try and see if I can have it worked better because when I first got it, I was doing great
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
One of the best ways to avoid the inaccurate low readings that tend to happen during the first 12-24 hours of wearing a CGM is to insert a new sensor the day before your old one is about to expire. The next day when the old sensor expires, transfer the transmitter to the new sensor and start the sensor. Since that new sensor has been in your tissue for about 24 hours, the sensor should not have the inaccuracies of the first day. That has always worked for me and I have heard other people do this also. I am on Dexcom so not sure how the Libre sensor would work. I am wondering how the new Dexcom G7 will work however, as the G7 is supposed to start up as soon as it is inserted and will not need to be "started" as the G6 is started. I have heard that the new G7 will have better accuracy so I am hoping that those low readings will not happen on the first day as one cannot delay the sensor from actually starting by one day. Only time will tell.
Yes, great tip. I’ve also heard of others who have had success with that approach. G7 will have a 30 min warmup, and it might make sense to still do the “vetting”. We’ll have to experiment 🙂
TV commercials never say how many finger sticks those persons were doing a day before they started wearing a CGM, rarely say what their A1Cs were before and after, or indicate whether the person has type 1 or type 2 diabetes.They are almost always say paid endorsements. imo Celebrity sports endorsements are the worst, and only serve to indicate that they can wear a CGM and not have it interfere with their activities.
Since the CGM sensor is only supposed to e be worn for 10 days, does this method cause any anomalous reading on the last day before you remove it?Or does it maintain its level of accuracy right until the end?
Thanks for the video. I have had type 1 diabetes for almost 42 years and just got a Dexcom G6 today. I cleaned the area on my stomach with an alcohol swab and when I pushed the big orange button it hurt like heck and immediately started bleeding. I am a little hairy, so I should have shaved the area but didn't, and the sensor fell off. That upset me a bit. Thank goodness my insurance completely covers everything but I hate wasting anything. Let's just say that I am not looking forward to another sensor. I was wondering if the pain and bleeding was just a freak thing? I still inject my insulin twice a day and I rarely feal it. I'm a man and as a true man I hate pain....lol. can you give me any words of encouragement and or advice. I really enjoy hearing from other type 1 diabetics. Thanks in advance.
I hardly feel it and rarely bleed, so I’d think it was a one-time thing. It can happen of course but shouldn’t be an every time thing. As for the sensor that fell off, Dexcom will replace those for you. I made this video on how to easily do that without having to call them ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-XUtEOF510D0.html
You duo not need to turn your phone off to stop frequent alarms, just move it away and wait for the message signal loss. when you want to see reading just move it closer and it takes 5 minutes to report
I keep forgetting to stop sensor before putting another one on. I can’t seem to get the active date to April. No code has been entered. My bad I put in before..
Thank you so much! This is all very new to me - I've been interested in the idea for a long time, but only recently received my first 'set' of supplies. I was shocked that the only info provided with it all was a half sheet of instructions and BIG diagrams. I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS!!! Lol. My biggest question, for right now, is in trying to decide on the best spot to put the sensor. I know it says "No bony spots" but I don't have bony spots - I'm very squishy! Also, I have cats that occasionally use me as a sort of jungle gym, I'm concerned with them stepping or laying on it...will that mess up my readings, will it HURT somehow? I'm excited but nervous! And I so appreciate your video tips. I'm saving some of them for 'just in case'. I'm looking forward to other pearls of widsom.
Congrats on your new Dexcom, that's exciting. I made this video about Dexcom G6 placements (ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-w351a2PmL24.html). I think you'll find that helpful. And I don't think you have to worry about your cats. My dog has been sitting on mine before without any issues. But do pay attention to compression lows. That means "weird" lows (that aren't really lows) due to pressure put on the sensor. For example, if you're coasting at 120 mg/dl and then the next minute your 50 mg/dL. Unless you feel low, I would check a reading like that with a finger stick.
I've noticed when I get out of a hot shower, my readings go up to 190-200, my average of 110. I've learned to ignore it. I don't know if my BG has gone up (I doubt it) or if the mechanism/sensor is just reacting to the heat. Anyone else have this?
Think things through and READ, READ. READ ABOUT DIABETES! I was not impressed by your mistakes. Each one could have been prevented by reading the Dexcom manuals and the materials on the website.
It’s May 2024 and I started a g7 yesterday. It took a couple hours to finally pair. Then this morning, I’m not getting alerts or readings. It says not paired. I’ve turned my phone off, nothing. I went to Bluetooth, nothing. I’ve tried to enter the code to find it, nothing. I’ve shut off Bluetooth for 15 minutes or more, nothing. I’ve even deleted the app and reloaded and still nothing. It’s frustrating. Any hints? I have an iPhone 13 and I’ve updated it to iOS 17.5.1 and still nothing. It’s 1:41 am. Should I just leave it be and maybe it’ll start working again? The doctor gave me one to try and I’m waiting for tricare to approve it. Help!
Hello , i have a question. It was time to change my sensor, i stopped the sensor on my mobile device, followed the steps that i needed to do, and finished the whole 2hr warm up process when i realized i didn’t stop sensor nor added the new code on my tslim. Is it too late to stop sensor and add the new code on my tslim even though the whole process is complete on my celular device. Will it make a difference if I don’t?
I don't know the answer to that but I don't think it matters. By now you probably have figured it out but if not try giving Tandem's customer service team a call
Is anyone else having a 75% failure rate on their g6 sensors? The failure rate is unbelievable. Not sure how they got FDA approval. My complaints to the FDA go unanswered. Dexcom tech support is useless. Their only option is to send you a new sensor. Thanks for the insertion timing suggestion. Been woken up 3 times by alarm for each of the past 2 nights. One was 5 days in and one was the same day in. good luck. I will be searching for something better,
Have you tried Libre, and if so, did you find it to be better or the same? For me, Libre was slightly more inaccurate but accuracy seems to also depend on the individual
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!
If my numbers are high, I'll see what my Omnipod thinks. If the Omnipod isn't suggesting more insulin, I figure my result is expected. ... My biggest mistake, early on, was pushing the new sensor down, after injecting the canula. Bad idea. I've actually broken a few such that the tranmitter couldn't be attached (G6). Now, I just let the mechanism do its thing, pull the insertion device away, and press down the outer adhesive, only.
I have used the freestyle libre, had 5 sensors in a row die prematurely. The last one lasted 17 hours. Abbott couldn't care less. Refused to acknowledge there may a bad batch, blamed me. Blamed me for having the adhesive tight enough. Blamed me for having the sensor on the side of my arm, not the back. Hello all the advertising photos and vids has it on the side. So I am changing to Dexcom possibly G7. After five years of freestyle. Bad move Abbott.
I use the G6. I am not diabetic but insulin resistant. Everything you said is true. I wonder why it is that when you change sensors the CGM isn't accurate. I think this is a flaw in G6. It should not act like this because essentially I am forfeiting a day or more of value for the money. Throwing away almost 10% of my CGM's value! Since you made this a year ago, have you been using the G7 yet? If so, is it a better CGM for the fluctuations? Also, don't know if you have ever calibrated the G6, but I have. I noticed that the first time I calibrate it based on a blood stick, it AVERAGES, it doesn't actually change the reading in the CGM to correspond to what my blood is actually. But, if I calibrate it twice, it will then reflect on the CGM what my blood stick actually is, bringing them into sync with each other.
I’ve tried G7 (check out my review here on my channel). I haven’t seen a big difference in accuracy but will have to wear it longer to be able to give a real assessment. The beauty of G7 is the short warm-up period and small size
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
Informative video. Have you switched to Dexcom G7? I just got my G7 but haven't started it yet. Is there anything you can tell me about G7 pitfalls? 😄 Opps, I just spotted your video on G7.
I noticed that if I wake up to like a “40” blood sugar with double arrows down (AND I don’t feel low), it’s cuz I’m sleeping on imy Dexcom w/ a lot of weight. So if it’s on my left arm and I sleep on that arm, there’s a chance it can happen. Don’t know why, but it’s a hood fact to know, otherwise your blood is 300 an hour later.
Yes, that's a "compression low", not a real low blood sugar but a false low reading you can get when putting pressure on the sensor. I"m glad you've caught those and don't just treat them with glucose
Hi I’ve been using a pump since 2003. I’m still sticking my fingers. I have to get a new pump cause it’s time. Anyway I went to the Dr and the salesman ( I call them) and I decided to finally use a a system. I’m not sure of the name but it goes with the new mini med pump. I was watching RU-vid on the Omni pod also. Not sure which one I’ll go with yet. Any advice would be greatly appreciated thanks for your videos ❤
Sounds like you’re deciding between Medtronic and Omnipod. I’d encourage you to look into Tandem as well (based on those I know who use a hybrid closed-loop pump, that seems to be the best). The main difference between Medtronic and Omnipod is that Omnipod is a patch pump, so no tubing. Medtronic only works with the Medtronic CGM while Omnipod works with the Dexcom CGM. I believe their algorithm is similar (it learns based on your historical numbers), so it probably comes down to preference
Dexcom tried to link my transmitter to my Receiver,they were busy and said they would call! It is 5:15 and they havn't called as of yet! I am about sick and tired of Dexcom.I'm going to look at other companies. I v had to fingerstick because of them for 2 1/2 weeks!
My wife just got her first DexcomG6 two days ago and it's been quite a nightmare . The phone ( android) keeps saying " it won't conect to the transmiter" . We don't know what to do . We did called customer service and we still in the dark. Help 🙏.
Try starting with the receiver, that way she’ll at least get started with her CGM. You can have the transmitter connected to both the phone and the receiver. If you talked with customer service I’m sure they confirmed that the phone she has actually works with Dexcom. Other things to try are turning the Bluetooth on and off, restarting the phone, and trying again. If everything fails, you might have a faulty transmitter. You’d have to contact Dexcom (if you’re in the US you can do that through the app, you can watch my video on how if needed) and get a replacement
I’m a user on the G6 because it connects really well with my Omnipod 5. At first I was using the Omnipod dash insulin pump which it didn’t correspond with dexcom G6. I’d like to know do you use a pump with your G7? If so I’d like to know how touching those two
I don’t use an insulin pump so can’t give you any personal experience. I can tell you that at this point Dexcom G7 doesn’t work with any of the hybrid closed-loop pumps
The biggest issues in my Medtronic 670 with the transponder is the Battery 🪫 effects upon the body. The biggest issues that the diabetes doesn’t look at and compare pumps & issues correlated in A1c is just ur blood 🩸 overall but I’ve noticed that the Battery has a effect when calibrating. & I wonder with ur different spots on ur bodies have u experienced anything from the battery In usage regulating ur controlling ur blood. My younger brother has issues & his pump is this one yet he has frozen shoulder & foot issues & my doctor said they don’t publish anything based on health issues & so I wondered ur thoughts. Thanks JP
I don’t use an insulin pump so I don’t have any experience with this. It’s not something I’ve heard before, have you tried asking some of the other diabetes RU-vidrs? Like Tom from @typeonetalks
Wish I had watched this before inserting my sensor for the very first time last night. Holy shnikey! I wound up having to shut the whole darn thing down just so I could get some sleep.
I wouldn't mind just a simple video that tells me quite simply how to apply it. All I've watched is gabbling, boring, idiotic video's by Dexcom telling me how good it is but not how to apply it. Abbott Libre beats Dexcom hands down when it comes to simplicity.
Thank you for the vidio I am a newly diagnosed diabetic who also has Cerebral Pulsey. I have been sticking myself in the finger for 4 weeks now but only on one hand because the other one is not free of spasims enough to get readings without multiple attempts and waisted supplies.My most stuck hand could use some relief. My doctor ordered me the Dexcom G7 and I get it on Monday so I am doing research on it's use. I am a bit worried about how inaccurate you said the CGM can be and I also noticed the G6 is what you are educating on and not the G7. I was wondering if you have tried the G7 and your thoughts about it's use and accuracy which I read about being more accurate? Thank you!
I’m using Dexcom G7 and am really happy with it (check out my Dexcom G7 playlist for more information). It can still be inaccurate the first 24 hours, like any other sensor, but generally I trust it
What happens when Dexcom sensor is 50 off I have calibrated new sensor at least 5 xs . Should o give it more time it hasn’t been 24 hours yet ? Thank you
The first 24 hours can be rough! I generally don't calibrate it that many times but will do a few if needed and give it time to adjust. Usually, that does the trick, but if it's still way off after the 24-hour and not responding to calibrations I'll request a replacement. Check out this video on Dexcom accuracy and when to calibrate: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ipKdnTeaOLM.html
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,
New to this. A bit like the tail wagging the dog. Way better than obsessive finger prickin though. Inhaling insulin. Who knew. Now its becoming necessary for me to take my fast acting insulin well before meals to avoid a spike upwards. But once upon a time that would have been downright dangerous. Mostly to do with lifestyle.
