Tips to Stop Freestyle Libre Sensor Falling Off

Introduction

Is your Freestyle Libre sensor falling off? Do you want to know the reasons for that? Do you want appropriate solutions that avoid Freestyle Libre 3 or Freestyle Libre 2 sensors falling off? Or the newer ones like the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus or Freestyle Libre 3 Plus sensors?
In this article, we have discussed why these sensors fall off and some efficient tips to avoid their falling.

While the Freestyle Libre 2 and Freestyle Libre 3 have been the most useful devices for diabetic patients, the new ones come with enhanced features, and the same discreet sizes, i.e., the Libre 2 Plus has the same size as that of the Libre 2 sensors, and the Libre 3 Plus also comes in the same smallest in the world size. These sensors allow you to monitor your blood sugar level continuously and analyze your glucose trends, thus helping you devise a better management plan for your diabetes.

These user-friendly CGM devices are designed considering the convenience of the users. Freestyle Libre CGM sensors, with the help of a micro pin, are typically inserted in the back of your upper arm. This is how your sugar levels are monitored from your interstitial fluid. These waterproof sensors stick firmly to your skin, allowing you to swim and do other activities that require water encounters. Even though the sensors of Freestyle Libre attach firmly to your skin, they may fall off due to multiple reasons.

Reasons Freestyle Libre sensor fell off early

Sometimes Freestyle Libre Sensors fall down without any warning. Let us discuss some common reasons that cause these sensors to fall early.

Sweating

Although the sensors are waterproof, sweat has can harm its adhesive material. Primary function of the adhesive is to keep the sensor in its place. If you sweat excessively, the moisture can loosen the adhesive hence displacing it from its site of attachment.

In hot weather or during exercise, you may need to take extra precautions to keep the sensor secure.

Skin irritation

Some people may have sensitive skin or an allergic reaction to the adhesive on the sensor. It is not included in the primary causes of sensor falling. However, the patient itself removes it due to itching. If you experience redness, itching, or other skin irritation, you may need to try a different type of adhesive or consult a healthcare professional.

Poor placement

If the sensor is not placed on a flat, dry area of skin, or if it is placed too close to a joint, it may not adhere properly. Some users also fail to use the applicator properly that result in poor placement of the sensor.

People with an active lifestyle may benefit from Freestyle Libre Sensor patches from CGM Monitors.

Oil or lotion on the skin

If you apply lotion, oil, or other products to your skin, it can make it difficult for the sensor to stick. It is because these chemicals interact with the adhesive component and change their chemistry. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the sensor.

Friction

Clothing or other objects rubbing against the sensor can cause it to come loose. Try to avoid tight clothing or clothing with rough textures in the area where the sensor is placed.

Do you often experience connection errors?

If so, a reader like the Freestyle Libre 3 reader may be the answer. The good part is Libre 2 reader is compatible with the new Libre 2 Plus sensors, and the Libre 3 reader is compatible with the new Libre 3 Plus sensors.

How to keep Freestyle Libre sensor from falling off

Users always strive to prevent Freestyle Libre Sensor from falling. They look for beneficial tips that can help them in this regard.

Here we have mentioned some amazing tactics to keep your sensor in place for a long time.

Clean the area & keep it dry

As dirt interacts readily with the sensors, you must clean your skin before the insertion. Either wash it with soap and dry the surface with a towel, or simply use alcohol wipes and let the area dry. Once completely dried (make sure no moisture remains), you can apply the sensor.

Shave off your hair

The adhesive of the sensors may not stick properly to the hairy surface. Therefore, you must shave off your hair before inserting the sensor. After shaving, dry it appropriately.

Smooth the edges by pressing

To avoid the edges of the sensor adhesive from coming off, smooth the edges by pressing them with your thumb or finger gently. Doing this ensures the adhesive is in good contact with your skin.

Important: Be mindful of activities that may dislocate your sensor, e.g., intense exercises can lead to your sensor going loose due to movements or extreme sweat. Remember, loose sensors may give you inaccurate readings or simply stop giving any readings.

Avoid water activities for at least 60 minutes

Although freestyle Libre is a water-resistant device. It does not fall off due to interaction with water. However, you must avoid going in water for at least an hour after applying it. It is because the adhesives may take this long to stick tightly to your skin.

Need Extra adhesiveness for your sensors?

CGM Patches provide you with the extra adhesiveness required to keep your sensors well adhered and intact. These stickers are waterproof and made using 97% cotton combined with 3% spandex (for flexibility).

Avoid Touching & Moisture:

Avoid unnecessary touching or rubbing of the sensors, as this may cause them to go loose. Also, avoid applying oils or any such creams around the sensors.

If Freestyle Libre sensor fell off early, call the company

The functional life of freestyle Libre 2 and 3 sensors is up to 14 days. However, if your Freestyle Libre sensor fell off a lot earlier, you can call the customer support of the company for a sensor replacement. And as Abbott is quite accommodating, considering you meet the qualification criteria, they would perhaps send you a replacement.

New in Freestyle Libre Family!

Early fall off problems is mostly seen in freestyle Libre 2. It is because it is the older version having some drawbacks. Abbott has improved its quality in this regard. Now, Freestyle Libre 3 sensor has a compact design with great quality of sticking to your skin.

Conclusion

CGM sensors may fall off due to various reasons, including sweating, skin irritation, poor placement, and friction. In order to avoid early falling, the first step is to apply them correctly by following proper instructions. Here is how to apply Libre 3 sensor; proceed to page 43 of this Freestyle Libre user’s guide.

You may shave off your hair, clean and dry the area of application, before inserting the sensors. Once inserted, smooth the edges of your sensor with your thumb and avoid water for at least an hour.

If the sensor still falls off early, customers can contact Abbott for replacement at 855-632-8658, between 8 am to 8 pm Eastern Time (excluding holidays), or fill out this sensor replacement form.