After months of trying to see if I can get a new transmitter for my Dexcom 7, I was told to switch to the G4. With the insurance issue I've been having I switched Suppliers as the one I've been using I cant due to the new insurance I have and they do not except it(went from Neighborhood Diabetes to Edgepark). I received my pump supplies yesterday and was so happy with the quick delivery. My G4 arrives tomorrow :).
SO I wanted to ask how has it been for you guys so far? I cant wait to start using it. I plan to donate my other sensors I had previously so I can make room for the new ones. Did you guys get a carrier (to put the CGM in)? What else should I know? I already know that the program is not compatible with the mac (why on earth wouldnt they do one for macs).
The main thing I'd add (in case you didn't know about it) is that the sensors can last WAY longer than 1 week. You just press "Start Sensor" when the time is up and 2 hours later you are good to go!
I know they can be used more than a week :)...When I was on the dexcom 7 I couldn't wear it for more than a week otherwise it begins to itch and become very uncomfortable for me
I just wanted to make sure you knew, because sometimes people post asking about this after using the G4 for months! It's amazing how much money I've saved (mine last 2-3 weeks every time) and they get more accurate the longer they stay in! They only ever fail when the adhesives do.
This is what I use now: Clean area with alcohol wipes to make sure it sticks, then:
Liquid SkinTac + Hypafix Tape that I cut out like this:
both super cheap (I used to use skin tac wipes, until someone told me about the liquid... way less messy and WAY cheaper!) and I get them to hold for at least 2 weeks each time, over 3 weeks most of the time!
Then I use UniSolve Wipes to remove it (which I also use to remove my Mio insertions sites) so it doesn't get all red and irritated.
my issue isnt the adhesive, its the sensor itself (I dont remember what its called but the thing that is under your skin) makes it itch way too much then it becomes bothersome. I'm not sure if the sensor has changed but if it has, then maybe I can leave it in for longer.
Where can I get the liquid skin-tac and the hipafix tape? I have some type of tape that I can trim for the transmitter. But I cant wait. I presume the insertion device is the same as the dexcom 7?? I hated that device, I have to breathe and pinch and keep my eyes closed! then just do it quickly!
I only used the Seven plus for a week (doing a trial), and the G4, so far, for six, but I am very happy with the G4. Its accuracy is terrific most of the time, and the receiver's range is pretty good - rarely loses the signal even if I forget and leave the room without if for a few minutes. So far, I have not gotten a replacement case/carrier, but it is something I am considering I like the design of the original case, but it isn't the highest quality and will fall apart before too long.
The insertion device is similar, but the needle is smaller, and so is the catheter that stays in your skin,. I've left the sensor in for at least 2.5 weeks each time without a problem so far, and I'm usually very sensitive to adhesives. I'm using strips of Optsite Flexfix tape to secure the sensor - my biggest issue is how to get the leftover adhesive when I remove it.
So I wont have to breathe and just push that stupid little thing, etc. I switched my infusion set for my pump as the inset 30 made me do the same thing and i am trying the inset and isnt as scared of that because I cant see it
thanks! I am glad its a bit more accurate then the 7. I had no issues with it not being accurate. maybe for me it was. But again excited about the new blue shiny dexcom :)....I like that its a different shape though. cant wait to see it in person and compare it to my 7 (yes I still have it as I do not know what to do with it and the sensors have all expired and do not know what to do with those either).
sorry for the caps but IT ARRIVED!!!!!!!!!!! I took pics of the packaging differences between the 7 and the G4. Also other pics too and will put them up soon. Now I have to read the manual so I can get acclimated again with the CGM
The pictures are up to compare the two. I was worried about the sensor like I was before. It didnt hurt unlike the 7 did. I have it set up, waiting for the 2 hour time is up so I can calibrate it and on my way :)
Terrific! I hope it works out well for you. When mine first arrived, I had it yo and inserted within 10 minutes - I didn't want to give myself a chance to think about it too much! Keep us posted :)
I was too anxious and read the directions and it was a refresher for me lol...I did my 2 first calibration start up glucose and now will go from there. I love the 20 feet thing tho! With the old one I think it was 5 feet but this will be nice for me as I'll be all over the apt and think oh i need the CGM! so far so good :)
