Flash Glucose Monitor - Pain-Free Glucose Readings

The Flash Glucose Monitor is a system that allows individuals with diabetes to obtain glucose readings painlessly and without the need for routine finger-pricking.

Flash Glucose Monitor FAQ

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What is a flash glucose monitor?

A flash glucose monitor, also called a flash, uses a sensor that is placed on the back of the upper arm and worn externally by the user. It is attached to a tiny needle that sits just under the skin. This allows glucose information to be monitored quickly and easily. But what exactly are these devices and what are the benefits?

Can you buy a flash glucose monitor in the UK?

There is only one flash glucose monitor that is available to buy in the UK at the moment, the Freestyle Libre 2. This model has alarms for predicted high or low blood sugar levels. But when the alarm does sound you still have you scan your arm to check your blood sugar level.

Why do you use a flash glucose sensor?

“I use a flash glucose sensor to closely monitor my current blood glucose and its trend. While I have developed a much better understanding of my body and how different things can affect my blood glucose levels, it is nice to know that my flash sensor will alert me if my level drops below my pre-defined limit.”

What are the benefits of a flash glucose monitor & CGM?

One of the other main benefits of a flash glucose monitor and CGM is being able to review what your sugar levels do every minute of the day and night. With the charts and graphs, you can start to see and understand how food, activity, and other things affect your sugar levels.

What information relates to blood glucose monitoring?

The following information relates to blood glucose monitoring. The NICE guidelines recommend that if you are 18 years or older with type 1 diabetes, that you be offered a choice of intermittently scanned glucose monitoring (otherwise known as ‘flash’, for example Freestyle libre) or real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) on the NHS.

Who should use flash glucose monitoring with FreeStyle Libre 2?

It is recommended that flash glucose monitoring with Freestyle Libre 2 is available for individuals with diabetes who are actively engaged in the management of their diabetes and who intensively manage their condition with multiple daily insulin injections or insulin pump therapy.