Diabetes management can be tricky and requires constant monitoring of blood glucose levels. In the past, this involved frequent finger pricks that were uncomfortable and inconvenient.
However, the Freestyle Libre has revolutionized glucose monitoring, making it easier and more accessible for people with diabetes.
What is the Freestyle Libre?
The Freestyle Libre is a continuous glucose monitoring system that allows users to monitor their glucose levels without the need for frequent finger pricks.
The system includes a sensor that is worn on the back of the upper arm and a reader that collects data from the sensor.
How Does it Work?
The sensor uses a small, flexible filament that is inserted just below the skin. This filament continually measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds cells in the body.
The reader is then used to scan the sensor, which sends glucose data to the reader.
Accuracy
The Freestyle Libre has been shown to be highly accurate in multiple clinical studies. In fact, it has been shown to be more accurate than traditional finger-stick glucose monitoring in many cases.
Benefits
One of the main benefits of the Freestyle Libre is that it eliminates the need for frequent finger pricks. This can be a major relief for people with diabetes who struggle with the pain and inconvenience of these tests.
In addition, the Freestyle Libre provides continuous glucose monitoring data, which can give users a more complete picture of their glucose levels.
This data can be used to make more informed decisions about diabetes management and to identify trends in glucose levels over time.
Cost
The cost of the Freestyle Libre can vary depending on where you live and your insurance coverage. However, many people find that it is a cost-effective option when compared to traditional glucose monitoring methods.
Limitations
One of the main limitations of the Freestyle Libre is that it is not yet approved for use in children under the age of 18. In addition, the sensor needs to be replaced every 10-14 days, which can be a bit of a hassle for some users.
Conclusion
The Freestyle Libre is a revolutionary glucose monitoring system that has transformed the way that people with diabetes manage their condition. Its accuracy, convenience and cost-effectiveness make it an appealing option for many users.