What is a Glucose Sensor?
What Is a Glucose Sensor?
A glucose sensor is one of the three components of a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGM).1,2 A glucose sensor is inserted just under the skin (subcutaneously), usually on the abdomen or arm. A CGM measures and displays glucose levels continuously. A CGM can also display past glucose trends and directional arrows indicating the rate at which glucose is increasing or decreasing. The user can also set high and low glucose levels at which they want to receive alerts.1
Generally, the sensor reads the glucose levels and sends it to the transmitter. The transmitter, which is connected to the sensor, wirelessly transmits (sends) the data to a receiver. There is one CGM system in which the sensor is placed under the skin for 90 days before it needs to be removed and a new sensor inserted by a trained clinician.3 To learn more about CGMs and how they work read our full FAQ about CGMs.
1: Spicer-Moore S. Integrating continuous glucose monitoring into your practice. Diabetes Dietetic Practice Group - On the Cutting Edge. 2019;40(4):3-7.
2: Campbell A. Continuous glucose monitoring updates. diabetes self-management. https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/education/continuous-glucose-monitoring-updates/. Accessed August 18, 2021.
3: FDA. FDA approves first continuous glucose monitoring system with a fully implantable glucose sense and compatible mobile app for adults with diabetes. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-continuous-glucose-monitoring-system-fully-implantable-glucose-sensor-and. Accessed August 18, 2021.
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