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A continuous glucose monitor, often called a CGM, is a small device that tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night. Unlike a traditional fingerstick test, a CGM can provide ongoing readings and show patterns over time.
Most CGMs use a small sensor placed just under the skin. The sensor measures glucose levels in the fluid between cells and sends data to a reader, smartphone, or compatible device.
For people living with diabetes, a CGM may help identify trends, such as how meals, exercise, sleep, stress, and medications affect glucose levels. It may also alert users when glucose is moving too high or too low, depending on the device and settings.
A CGM is not right for everyone, and people should speak with their healthcare provider about whether it makes sense for their care plan.
Diabetes technology continues to evolve through clinical research. Studies help researchers evaluate new devices, treatment approaches, and ways to improve diabetes management in the future.