FreeStyle Libre Sensors — A Modern Diabetes Revolution?
For those of you who are completely unaware as to what the Abbott FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system is, or for those who have a friend or relative who can’t stop talking about how it’s changed their life, we’ve put together a short piece discussing the key points surrounding the mini revolution taking place in the world of glucose monitoring systems. Have a quick read through and as always, get in touch for more information.
So why do we need a new system to monitor glucose levels?
When it comes to measuring blood glucose levels, patients suffering from diabetes have seen very little in the way of innovation to make the entire process of testing & monitoring blood glucose less painful and more streamlined. Historically, patients suffering from Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, who regular test their blood glucose levels, have had to perform the often painful and damaging procedure of finger pricking (using a lancet to pierce the skin in order to expel a small amount of blood). This is necessary as current technology for measuring blood glucose requires the patient to provide a minute blood sample in the form of a blood droplet, to get an accurate reading of current glucose circulation in the blood. Unfortunately, although glucose monitors themselves have become more technologically advance, allowing patients to transfer and monitor readings on their smartphone or mobile device, the method of testing itself has remained the same.
The new FreeStyle Libre glucose monitoring system
This is where the new FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system comes into play. Designed to liberate patients from the hassles of previous glucose monitoring methods, the FreeStyle Libre system allows for convenient, continuous automatic measurement of fluid glucose levels throughout the day.
How does this new system work?
The FreeStyle Libre system centres around the FreeStyle Libre Sensor, a device that is implanted in the back of the arm, which continuously measures interstitial fluid glucose levels. The interstitial fluid (ISF) is a thin layer of fluid that surrounds the cells of the tissues below your skin, therefore readings are not obtained from your blood but rather ISF. There is a 5 to 10 minute delay in ISF glucose response to changes in blood glucose.
The FreeStyle Libre sensor is able to automatically measure and store glucose readings throughout the day and night, meaning patients are no longer required to test glucose levels up to 4 times a day. The sensor updates glucose results up to every minute and stores up to 8 hours of glucose readings in 15 minute intervals. These readings can then be read via the FreeStyle Libre Reader or through a convenient smartphone app. FreeStyle Libre Sensors can be worn for up to 14 days per device, and are now available for purchase online and at Smart Chemist.
For more information or to buy a FreeStyle Libre Sensor visit Smart Chemist by clicking here