Pros and Cons of Dexcom G7 – CGM Device

When discussing the pros and cons of Dexcom G7, it’s important to keep an eye on its older variants, such as the Dexcom G6. Among the major pros are its built-in transmitter that previously was attached to the sensor separately, shorter warm-up time, smaller size, better MARD value, increased compatibility with the automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems, and more. While the major cons include its unreliable glucose readings, fall alarms, shorter life span than marketed, and more, please note that the cons are purely based on user experience in this blog.

What is a CGM?

CGM is a continuous glucose monitoring device that comes with a sensor and a monitor (or you can also choose to see results on your mobile phone). CGM Sensor is a small device that can be worn in a few different places, the most famous ones of which are the back of the upper arm and abdomen (2 inches from the belly button). Allowing people to track their glucose levels 24/7, see glucose trends, get alerts for high and low glucose, and share data with doctors and loved ones.

CGM Monitor is a discreet and compact device used to see your real-time glucose readings and trends. Some of the readers also have the option of taking notes and alarms as well.

What is Dexcom G7?

Dexcom is known for its innovation in the CGM world and Dexcom G7 is a huge milestone covered. Not only it’s a discreet and tiny CGM but its connectivity with smart watches has astonished the world. This means you can now see your glucose results right on your wrist. You can see a list of G7 compatible watches and mobile phones here.

Plus, previous Dexcom CGM models like G6 used to have separate transmitters which was causing a bit of hassle. However, with Dexcom G7, there is no separate transmitter required.

Pros of Dexcom G7

• Better accuracy. As per the PMC, the overall MARD value of Dexcom G7 is 8.2% for the arm and 9.1% for the abdomen.
• The Dexcom G7 is almost half the size of Dexcom G6.
• Less warm-up time – approx. 30 minutes only.
• There is also a 12-hour grace period included with the new G7 Dexcom sensor.
• Compatible with both, iOS and Android smartphones.
• It is easily inserted with a one-button applicator.

Cons of Dexcom G7

If we talk about the overall side effects of Dexcom G7, here are a few of them based on the user experiences and personal guidance.

• The Dexcom G7 sensor is affected by pressure and movement at night.
• The Dexcom G7 is affected by high levels of vitamin C, resulting in imprecise glucose readings.
• It may lose Bluetooth data signals sometimes.
• It may cause bleeding, pain, infection, swelling, itching, or skin irritation.
• It is smaller than the Dexcom G6, but still bigger than the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus.
• CGM patches might be required as the adhesiveness of the sensor may run out before 10 days.

Busy finding your new CGM sensor?
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Dexcom G7 User Feedback:

User Feedback from the USA (r/dexcom)

Mixed Dexcom G7 reviews from the r/dexcom subreddit suggest that users have both positive and negative experiences. Many users appreciate the compact design, attached transmitter, minimized warmups, and that it saves from multiple fingerpricks throughout the day (although we may not consider this one as it’s common among the CGM sensors).

However, some users are concerned about the inaccurate glucose readings, particularly when blood glucose levels fluctuate rapidly, the app’s connectivity issues with the device, and sensor calibration issues.

Are you also experiencing inaccurate glucose readings? If so, here is “How to calibrate G7 Dexcom?”

Conclusion:

To sum up the pros and cons of Dexcom G7, I would say the addition of readings on the wrist, the grace period, the shorter warm-up time, and the new sensor insertion are amazing. And the errors people have experienced can definitely be resolved by Dexcom.

You may also like: How to connect Dexcom G7 to Apple Watch

For Further Reading: Pros and Cons of Dexcom G7 ; Dexcom g7 integration ; Dexcom g7 smart watch
Disclaimer: This is only for informational purposes. Always consult a healthcare specialist before taking any medical action.

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