Managing Diabetes with the Dexcom G7

Diabetes Management Has Evolved

Though diabetes remains an incurable chronic condition that affects millions of Americans, technology has afforded patients with a number of innovative ways to manage the illness that are minimally invasive and incredibly effective. What might have seemed like science fiction just a couple of decades ago is now readily available and changing lives every day.

One of the most exciting diabetes management devices coming to the market is the Dexcom G7. Let’s take a look at this incredible device and how it could revolutionize the way people manage their diabetes.

Readings in Real Time

The Dexcom G7 is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that is designed to help individuals with diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels. It consists of a small, wearable sensor that is inserted just beneath the skin, typically on the abdomen or back of the arm, and a transmitter that sends glucose readings wirelessly to a compatible device such as a smartphone or receiver.

The Dexcom G7 system provides real-time glucose readings every five minutes, as well as trend information, alerts for high or low glucose levels, and customizable alarms. This information can help individuals with diabetes make more informed decisions about insulin dosing, diet, and exercise, and it can also provide valuable data for healthcare providers to use in developing treatment plans.

 

How Does It Work?

The Dexcom G7 is a CGM system that works by measuring glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which is the fluid found between cells in the body. The system consists of three components: a small, wearable sensor, a transmitter, and a compatible receiver or smartphone app.

The small, wearable sensor is inserted just beneath the skin, typically on the abdomen or back of the arm, using a disposable applicator. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which is correlated to blood glucose levels every five minutes and sends this information to the transmitter. The transmitter is attached to the sensor and sends glucose readings wirelessly to a compatible device, such as a smartphone or receiver. It also includes a built-in battery and can be worn for up to three months before needing to be replaced. The receiver or smartphone app displays the glucose readings in real-time, as well as trend information and customizable alarms for high or low glucose levels.

The data collected by the Dexcom G7 can be used to help individuals with diabetes make informed decisions about insulin dosing, diet, and exercise, and can also provide endocrinologists and primary care doctors with a robust source of data that creates a more holistic picture of the patient’s health.

 

How Does It Compare with the G6?

To be clear, the G6 from Dexcon is an excellent CGM. That being said, we are especially excited about the improvements in usability and minimal invasiveness afforded by the G7.

For example, the Dexcom G7 sensor is 60% smaller and thinner than the G6 sensor, making it more comfortable to wear. The G7 sensor is also fully disposable, while the G6 sensor requires a separate disposable transmitter.

Speaking in terms of convenience, the Dexcom G7 sensor can be worn for up to 14 days, compared to 10 days for the G6 sensor. This means fewer sensor changes and less waste.The G7 does not require calibration with a fingerstick glucose test, while the G6 requires two calibrations per day. The Dexcom G7 uses Bluetooth Low Energy technology to communicate with compatible devices, while the G6 uses a different wireless technology. The G7 also has a longer Bluetooth range than the G6, meaning that pairing the device with your smartphone has never been easier.

Additionally, the G7 is the most accurate CGM on the market today. The G7 boasts an incredible 8.2% MARD in adults and 8.1% in children, which is a figure that other CGMs can’t approach. 

Interested? Speak With Your Doctor Today

Now that the Dexcom G7 has received FDA approval, it is sure to be the most sought after CGM in the US and beyond. Given the compact size, accuracy, and convenience of the model, we strongly recommend talking to your doctor today about how the Dexcom G7 could be the perfect solution for you to manage your diabetes more effectively.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions about the Dexcom G7 or any other diabetes management technology.