I just started my new Dexcom 7+ on Friday, and have been very pleased with the accuracy so far, even the first 24 hours. I went home for lunch and found my Dexcom had been delivered. So I inserted a new sensor, and let it sit until I came home at the end of the day. It was about 2:00 when inserted. I then started the sensor about 7:00 that night. After calibrations and comparing Free Style Lite fingersticks, I went to bed. Woke up several times that night to compare readings with fingerstick, and was within 20 all night.
So anyway, my question is, what if one were to insert a new sensor before stopping the old one, say one day before it was to expire or get close to dying. Then when the old one is pulled out, start the new sensor. By then it would have already marinated a day or so, and the initial 24 hour BG variation would be minimized. Anybody think this is worth a try?
Thanks for all the great comments! Loving my 7+ so far!
When it is time to insert a new one, just hit restart.... you sensor should last a couple weeks. Regardless.... you receiver makes you wait the 2 hour time out.
I used to do what you are describing when I used the Medtronic CGM, with some success. Since I switched to DEX, I haven't felt the need, as my numbers are pretty accurate most of the time - right from the get go. If you try your experiment and find it works better, please let us know.
BTW, I agree with Carolyn. I usually get two weeks out of each sensor also.
I love my seven also. Mine came out just 5 days after because I hit my arm and it feel out. I used tape but the tape broke me out Do you use any tape or glue to make it stay.
I have had one fall off in the three months that I have been using the DEX. I now use opsite flexifix tape which really holds it firmly. I cut four small strips to go on the outside pad only. Do not cover the sensor! The tape comes in a 2" x 23 yds roll - so I suspect it will last over a year.
I've thought about this, too. However, I don't want the part that the sensor sits in to flop around and move the sensor in my leg. (that sounds really weird when I re-read it. sorry for my lack of technical words to describe this!). If you try it, let me know!
I asked someone at Dex this question, and this is her direct quote from and email "Yes- this has been done. I would cover or tape the flap down so the sensor contacts are not compromised. Transmitters snapped in actually protect the inserted sensor from breakage AND moisture exposure. I don't know how helpful it will be with sensor performance. With Gen3, these 'old tactics' are rarely performed. There is much improved accuracy on Day 1 with the algorithm enhancements and good quality calibrations. "
i am an avid "marinater" :-) often i will insert a new sensor before bed when i have a fairly stable blood sugar with which i am comfortable going to bed, stop the other, attach the transmitter and leave it over night before pushing "start sensor." I also have inserted a new sensor and put a piece of athletic or paper tape over the flappy part so i can leave the transmitter on the old sensor and keep the BGs coming. if i do not marinate, i will have cyclic wave-like patters on the receiver for the first 12ish hours.
