Key takeaways:

• CGMs measure your blood glucose levels throughout the entire day, and display your readings on your mobile device.
• The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor painlessly inserts onto your arm to measure the glucose in your interstitial fluid.
• The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor lasts for 14 days.
• It can be used for those with diabetes and those wanting to improve their metabolic health.

Want to say goodbye to routine finger pricks, which are not only painful but also inconvenient? This article talks about the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor, which makes it easier to manage your blood sugar levels and improve your health.

While finger pricks are a common way to measure your blood glucose levels, they can be inconvenient and painful. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a great way to measure your glucose levels without the discomfort.

CGMs measure your blood glucose levels throughout the entire day, and display your readings on your mobile device. They allow you to understand how your diet and lifestyle is impacting your health in real-time.

A popular CGM system is the FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM sensor. It's easy to use, convenient, accurate and painless. It is highly recommended by healthcare professionals as an advanced medical device for the monitoring of blood glucose.

What is the FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor?

With the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor, you can receive timely glucose readings and view them on a compatible smart phone. It also includes glucose alarms, so you'll know right away if your blood glucose level rises or falls significantly. This enables you to make the necessary changes to your daily activities and diet to re-establish normal blood sugar levels.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor is beneficial for people with diabetes and also those who want to optimise their metabolic health.

How do CGM sensors work?

CGMs are a blood glucose monitoring device. CGM devices are a small circular sensor that is applied to the back of the arm. The FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM system inserts under your skin via a small flexible filament. This reads the glucose levels from the interstitial fluid (the fluid between the cells).

A wireless transmitter then transfers the data to your mobile device. Each glucose monitor lasts for 14 days.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system supports optional alarms by utilising Bluetooth technology. You can set customisable alarms to keep track of low and high glucose levels.

It also has an optional feature that notifies you when the signal has been lost. In these cases, the system will notify you through sound or vibration. You can scan your sensor as many times as you want to see your glucose readings, trends and patterns, and eight-hour history.

Are there any risks in using the FreeStyle Libre 2?

While it is generally safe and effective, there are some risks and contraindications that should be considered before using the CGM system.

Some of the risks associated with the Freestyle Libre 2 sensor include:

• Inaccurate readings: there is a chance that the sensor may provide inaccurate glucose readings for various reasons.
• Skin irritation: the adhesive used to attach the sensor to the skin may cause irritation, redness, or itching.
• Infection: anytime there is a break in the skin, there is a risk of infection. The Freestyle Libre 2 sensor involves inserting a small needle into the skin, which increases the risk of infection.
• Bleeding: The insertion of the sensor may cause minor bleeding, particularly if the skin is thin or sensitive.

Some contraindications to using the FreeStyle Libre 2 include:

• Allergies: people who are allergic to the materials used in the sensor or adhesive should not use it.
• Pregnancy: the Freestyle Libre 2 sensor has not been tested in pregnant women, so it is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
• Use with certain medications: some medications, such as acetaminophen, can interfere with the accuracy of the sensor and may not be compatible with its use.

It is important to discuss any potential risks or contraindications with a healthcare provider before using the Freestyle Libre 2 sensor.

FreeStyle Libre 2 skin irritations resolved

Previous reports indicated that the sensor adhesive caused inflamed skin in some users. The manufacturers have since revised the formulation to improve this issue.

However, if you develop irritated skin, consult with your healthcare professional immediately to determine whether you should discontinue using the device.

It is recommended that you:

• Wash the area where you intend to place the sensor adhesive thoroughly with water and soap that contains antimicrobial agents.
• Before using the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor, disinfect the area with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry.
• Avoid applying the sensor to broken skin as it compromises optimal skin integrity. The adhesive does not stick well on damaged skin.

If you have diabetes, it's important to contact a diabetes healthcare professional to learn more about the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor.

If you simply want to optimise your lifestyle and metabolic health, you can use the Freestyle Libre 2 sensor via Vively. The Vively app can not only help monitor your blood glucose levels, but it can also help you improve your diet, sleep, physical activity and stress levels to improve your overall health.