I've used a Dexcom for 3-4 years at this point, and it's a vital part of my BG management. However, in the past couple of months, I've started developing an allergic reaction of some type at the site of the sensor. By the end of the sensor's life, the site area is red, inflamed, itchy and irritated. After the sensor is removed, the skin under the sensor is red, inflamed, bumpy and very itchy (not the area under the tape or adhesive, which is fine. It's just the skin under the sensor plastic/transmitter holder that is inflamed).
At the same time, I've started having a ton of sensor failures on the G4, which until recently was infrequent. Dexcom is always wonderful and they replace the failed sensors. However, I really just want my G4 to work!
I've begun taking Benadryl at night, which seems to help some. Also, after I remove the sensor, I apply a prescription steroid cream to the site, which helps contain the itching. But, it takes 3-4 weeks for each sensor site to fully heal. My abdomen is oh, so attractive!
Has anybody else experienced this? It's really frustrating and impacting my BG control and peace of mind. It's gotten to the point that I frequently just go without and use BGM alone, albeit I test 10-12 times a day like I used to test prior to CGM. The combination of the sensor failures, more frequent inaccuracies and skin irritation just makes the effort seem not worth it. However, my BG control suffers, which is not ideal.
Any thoughts/insights are very welcome. Thanks! - Anna