At present, Diabetes management has made great strides. Technology has been introduced to help improve the quality of life of patients. One of them is Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), which allows patients to monitor their blood sugar levels at any time and analyze data to raise awareness of behavioral modifications such as diet, diet, and alcohol. exercise, medication, and other lifestyles more appropriately.

The principle of operation of a continuous blood glucose monitor

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a technology used to continuously monitor blood glucose levels throughout the day. Without the need for a fingertip blood glucose monitoring (BGM), the device uses a small sensor the size of a hair. It is inserted into the subcutaneous layer on the back, arms or abdomen. It then transmits a signal through a receiver and displays the results on devices such as smartphones, which currently have 3 forms: 

1. Real-time CGM (rtCGM) - A system that continuously measures and displays glucose levels and automatically transmits them to the receiver via Bluetooth. 
2. Intermittently-scanned CGM (isCGM)- A system with glucose levels measured at all times. However, the receiver must be used to read the readings so that the glucose level can be displayed and recorded. 
3. Professional CGM – A system that is equipped with a device for a period of 7-14 days. Medical personnel will be able to access the data and analyze it for further treatment adjustments.

Benefits of Continuous Blood Glucose Monitors

1. Allows for better sugar control – CGMs help demonstrate the relationship of food eaten to sugar levels in real time. It helps to raise awareness of living more. Diet can be adjusted. Exercise or adjustment of injectable insulin in groups where such drugs are used appropriately. 
2. Helps prevent hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia - CGMs alert us when our sugar is too low or too high before symptoms appear, and can prevent the dangers of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. 
3. Helps make treatment more effective – Doctors and patients know more about increased blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is easy to communicate and adjust the dosage of the medication used accordingly. It also reduces stress and improves the quality of life for patients.

Considerations before using a continuous blood glucose monitor

• Calibration

Choose a CGM from a company that always calibrates the meter for accuracy and if there is an alert that the glucose level is abnormally high or low, a fingertip glucose test should be performed to confirm the result.

• Price

Today's CGMs are still expensive, and it costs to replace the sensor every 7-14 days. 

• Side effects

Some users may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to allergens such as Isobornyl acrylate, which is a device that binds to the skin. 

• Sensor Replacement

If the patient is unable to replace it himself, he may need to travel to a medical facility.

Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is like an assistant in taking care of the health of diabetics. The data obtained can be used for analysis to adjust behavior and treatment appropriately. Reduce the risk of complications and improve the quality of life of patients. We should study the correct method of use and should be under the supervision of a medical professional throughout use.