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Diabetes can be a challenging condition to manage. From frustrating symptoms to frequent doctor’s visits, there’s a lot involved with staying comfortable. It’s important for people with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels and watch for telltale signs that may require medical attention. One way to do this is through at-home testing with a glucometer and test strips. Knowing the basics of blood glucose testing is essential for anyone with diabetes, so here’s what you need to know. The Importance of Blood Sugar Testing for Diabetics Regular testing allows individuals to be aware of their current glucose levels and take the necessary steps to regulate them if needed. It’s also helpful in detecting patterns over time so you can understand how different activities like exercise or food intake affect your blood sugar levels. Without frequent testing, it can be difficult to know if your levels are within a healthy range or if you need to seek care.

What is CGM and How Does it Work? Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems track glucose levels throughout the day. CGM users insert a tiny sensor wire just under their skin using an automatic applicator. An adhesive patch holds the CGM sensor housing in place so the sensor can measure glucose readings in interstitial fluid throughout the day and night.    A small, reusable transmitter connects to the sensor wire and sends real-time readings wirelessly to a receiver, so the user can view the information. With some systems, a compatible smart device (cell phone) with the CGM system app can serve as the display device. The receiver or compatible smart device displays current glucose levels, as well as historical trends in levels. Unlike a blood glucose meter (BGM), which provides just a single glucose reading, CGM systems can provide real-time, dynamic glucose information every five minutes — up to 288 readings in a 24-hour period.  Users can gain valuable