I just started using Dexcom a couple weeks ago. I had been putting the sensors on my hips but tried it on my stomach yesterday. Insertion wasn't anything different but OUCH it has hurt so much ever sense. I've been walking around like a hunch-back since yesterday and sitting/standing like a 90 yr old woman because it is so painful! Feels like a sharp pain when I bend or move and radius of about 3 inches around the sensor feel like a huge bruise (although there is no bruise). This was not the case at all when I had it on my hip. Did the sensor get in the muscle or hit a nerve or something?? Should I take it out (ugh- hate to waste it)?? Anyone experienced this or have any advice??
Hi Ashley, I'm a relatively new user of Dexcom too. I've had mine for about a month now I think. I'm still experimenting with the most comfortable places to put mine. I like to sleep on my side and made the mistake of putting my current sensor on my stomach but too far to the side and now I feel like I can't lay on that side at night.
Call Dexcom and they will probably replace it for you. I wouldn't suffer in pain if it's hurting you. I've only had one sensor that I felt any pain from and there was a bruise when I took it off. I called Dexcom and they replaced it no problem even though I think part of the problem was that I was hesitating when I inserted it. I've discovered if I push the plunger quickly without thinking too much about it, I've had more comfortable results with no bleeding than if I hesitate and do it slowly.
Good luck with your Dex. Suggestions from people here have helped me tremendously.
Hello from Ohio, I've been using the Dexcom for 6 months, and I've been staying with the side area on the abs. and with really good luck--no pain as you are having. I would call Dexcom if you need to take it out early, they replaced mine with a new one if I had problems--like not sticking well, and getting the famous ??? error.
I hope you like it, but, it will take a few weeks to make small living adjustments........Patrick
Definitely take it out! It shouldn't hurt at all and isn't worth keeping in if it is. Like others say, Dexcom will likely replace it free if you call them up and ask nicely. Not official or recommended, but I have good luck with back of upper arm for my sensors, it takes a bit of practice but can be done easily by yourself. I also 2nd the quick stab method, quick in, quick out! It comes with practice though, don't give up on it yet, it's a great device and has helped me immensely! Another tip i learned here, dab some olive oil or other substance on patch to loosen it up and hurts less when ripping off sensor, especially if it's freshly placed. Good luck!
Thank you all for the responses!!! I'm taking this thing out. The educator lady (from my Dr's office not Dexcom) recommended putting it on my side/hip as she said I had better "cushion" for it there rather than my stomach. Stomach is way more convienent though as I'm a side sleeper too. Anyone tried upper butt area?
I've slept on mine with no ill effects. I don't intentionally put it somewhere where I'll sleep on it, but have, inadvertently rolled onto it during the night. I didn't get consistent readings, but once I was up it was fine.