Managing the transition period with a new Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensor can be challenging. Understanding the concept of “sensor soaking” and how to effectively manage the warm-up period helps you make the most of the Dexcom G7’s new capability compared to the G6.
What is CGM Sensor Soaking?
CGM sensor “soaking” refers to the practice of inserting a new sensor before activating it in your CGM app, allowing the sensor to acclimate to your body’s tissue environment. This technique helps minimize the accuracy issues that commonly occur immediately after sensor insertion due to what’s known as “insertion trauma.”
When a CGM sensor is inserted, the needle punctures skin and subcutaneous tissue, creating minor trauma at the insertion site. This trauma can cause:
- Inflammation around the sensor filament
- Temporary changes in local blood flow
- Immune system responses that can affect sensor readings
- Inconsistent glucose readings for several hours or even days
The Dexcom G7 Difference: Integrated Transmitter Design
The Dexcom G7 represents a significant design change from its predecessor, the G6. Unlike the G6, which had a separate transmitter that could be removed and reused with multiple sensors, the G7 features an integrated design where the transmitter and sensor are combined into a single, disposable unit.
How the G6 System Worked
With the Dexcom G6:
- The sensor and transmitter were separate components
- Users could insert a sensor and wait hours or even a day before snapping on the transmitter
- This allowed for true “pre-soaking” where the sensor could adapt to tissue before beginning its warm-up cycle
- The 2-hour warm-up period only began when the transmitter was attached and activated
G7’s Integrated Approach
The Dexcom G7’s integrated design means:
- The sensor and transmitter are one unit
- The much-shorter 30-minute warm-up period begins immediately upon insertion onto the body, even before connecting the new sensor to the app.
- However, the G7 provides an extra 12 hour grace period beyond the standard 10 days wear time that the G6 has (and the G7 has been approved for 15 day wear, coming soon)
- Traditional pre-soaking (inserting without activating) is still possible but more limited
Strategies for Managing G7 Sensor Transitions
1. Timing Your Sensor Changes
Since the G7 begins its warm-up immediately upon activation, strategic timing becomes crucial:
- Change during stable periods: Avoid sensor changes during meals, exercise, or times of stress
- Plan for downtime: Choose times when you can rely on fingerstick testing more heavily
- Consider your schedule: Avoid changing sensors before important events or during busy periods
2. Limited Pre-Soaking with G7
While true pre-soaking is more limited with the G7, you can still:
- Insert the sensor and wait 1-2 hours before activating it in the app
- Use this time for the tissue to begin adapting to the sensor presence
3. Overlapping Sensors
Some users choose to overlap sensors by:
- Inserting a new sensor while the old one is still active
- Allowing the new sensor to soak for several hours
- Activating the new sensor (i.e., connecting it to the G7 App and Gluroo) when ready to make the transition
How Gluroo Helps Manage Sensor Transitions
Gluroo provides several features that can help you better manage the challenging period around CGM sensor changes:
Separate Sensor Insertion Tracking
One of Gluroo’s key advantages is its ability to track sensor insertion time separately from when the sensor becomes active in your Dexcom app. This feature allows you to:
- Log insertion time: Record exactly when you physically insert the sensor
- Track soaking duration: Monitor how long your sensor has been soaking before activation
- Plan optimal activation: Use data to determine the best time to activate your sensor in the Dexcom app
- Document patterns: Build a personal database of how your sensors perform with different soaking times
Conclusion
While the Dexcom G7’s integrated design presents some challenges for traditional sensor soaking techniques, understanding these limitations and adapting your approach can help you maintain good diabetes management during sensor transitions. The key is strategic planning, careful monitoring, and making use of tools like Gluroo that can help you track and manage the complexities of CGM sensor changes.
Remember that every person’s experience with CGM sensors is unique. Work with your healthcare provider to develop a sensor management strategy that works best for your individual needs and lifestyle. By combining proper sensor techniques with smart technology tools and good communication with your care team, you can minimize the impact of sensor transitions on your diabetes management.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult with your diabetes care team for personalized guidance on CGM management and diabetes care.