What is Dexcom?
Dexcom is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that has become increasingly popular in the diabetes community over the past few years. At its core, it is a device that tracks and stores glucose levels in real-time, helping to manage blood sugar levels. It is comprised of three main components: a sensor, transmitter, and receiver. The sensor is inserted into the skin and continuously measures the glucose levels in the fluid beneath the skin, and then sends that information wirelessly to the transmitter. The transmitter then transmits the information to the receiver, which then displays the glucose levels on a graph.
Who Can Use Dexcom?
The answer to this question has changed over the years, but as of 2023, Dexcom is approved for use by both type 1 and type 2 diabetics, as well as people with gestational diabetes. It is also approved for use by children ages two and up.
Benefits of Dexcom
The biggest benefit of Dexcom is the real-time tracking of glucose levels. This helps people with diabetes better manage their glucose levels and avoid dangerous lows and highs. It can also be used to detect trends in glucose levels and alert a user when a problem is developing. Dexcom is also easy to use and intuitive, and the data can be easily accessed and shared with healthcare providers.
How Does Dexcom Work?
The Dexcom system works by continuously measuring glucose levels beneath the skin and sending that information wirelessly to the transmitter. The transmitter then sends the information to the receiver, which displays the glucose levels on a graph. The Dexcom system also includes helpful features such as alarms, which alert a user when their glucose levels are too low or too high.
Is Dexcom Only for Type 1 Diabetes?
No, Dexcom is approved for use by both type 1 and type 2 diabetics, as well as people with gestational diabetes. It is also approved for use by children ages two and up.
What Are the Limitations of Dexcom?
As with any medical device, there are certain limitations to Dexcom. For example, Dexcom is not a substitute for regular blood glucose testing, and it is not a “cure” for diabetes. In addition, Dexcom is not designed to be used as a treatment tool, and users must still use insulin or other medications as prescribed by their healthcare providers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Dexcom is approved for use by both type 1 and type 2 diabetics, as well as people with gestational diabetes and children ages two and up, it is not a substitute for regular blood glucose testing or a “cure” for diabetes. It is, however, a helpful tool for managing glucose levels and helping to prevent dangerous highs and lows.