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Abbott freestyle sensor

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Richard_Pratt

Newbie
Messages
4
Type of diabetes
Type 1
I have just been given a trial 2 week "one sensor" and the sensor seems to be coming away from my arm "coming unstuck"

Is this normal ? I am quiet active so sweat a lot, could this be a problem ?

I have always been put off using this because of the price. But after a couple of days I am coming round to the idea. But not if it's going to keep coming off. And I'm also now worried about getting in the shower incase it gets water in and I'm also worried about the readings.

Help please
 
Richard_Pratt said:
Is this normal ? I am quiet active so sweat a lot, could this be a problem ?
Click to expand...

More than likely, you could use a tubular bandage to hold it in place, not sure what to suggest for showering.
 
Richard_Pratt said:
Cool thanks.
Seems strange that at that price it would be a issue. maybe I should move sites
Click to expand...

The trouble is you can't reapply the sensor, but something to consider if you continue to use the Libre long-term.

There's quite a long thread on the Freestyle Libre, sure your problem has come up a few times during the discussion, maybe have a read through the thread and see what other users do:

http://www.diabetes.co.uk/forum/threads/freestyle-libre-on-sale.65900/
 
In summer I find the increased perspiration when I exercise causes my sensors to start detaching after 7 days.

I place a piece of "Rocktape" over the top of my sensor and it holds it on firmly for the last 7 days. Abbott got very sniffy about me doing this as allegedly having something over the sensor like this can affect the readings and suggested an alternative product called "Skin tac".

Weirdly I was allergic to the Skin tac (it's supposed to reduce allergic reactions!) so went back to the Rocktape as I haven't noticed any difference in accuracy using it. I do cut a hole in the Rocktape so that the little hole in the sensor isn't covered up with ***** adhesive.

That's two options to try at least.
 
@Richard_Pratt - Have you contacted Abbott about this at all?

Sensors falling off isn't something I have routinely experienced, although I did have one (only one) just drop off. More usually I am prizing them from my arm when they have expired.

It's probably worth letting Abbott know, so that, if nothing else, they understand how many people experience this.
 
My sensor came away from my arm after 2 days. It was attached in accordance with the instructions so I'm assuming there may be a problem with the adhesive. This is a shame because, theoretically, it's a wonderful system. Maybe I was unlucky and got a faulty sensor but Abbott wouldn't provide a replacement so I can't be certain. I am certain, however, that I am now unwilling to pay for what could be a faulty design from a company unwilling to provide replacement for a faulty item.
 
Mmmm... I admit... I do not use their skin cleanser sachet before putting on libre..
When It is released into me, I leave it a good minute before pulling the mechanical bit away. Then I make sure I firmly press it to my skin.
Next I do always cover it with a layer of tubigrip.

I sweat profusely due to drugs. Especially at night. Even in minus temps I sleep on top of bed and with window open. If I get under even a summer quilt I end up having to change the bed or having towels under me or a kyle incontinence as I literally soak the whole bed from top to toe.

The libre has never come off. Not once. I think the tubigrip just absorbs the sweat. Its readings are accurate.
I shower without the tubigrip and put it back over.

I do not use any shower gel in or around the sensor. I never touch it although it gets soap from my shampoo etc its never actually squirted around the sensor.
 
Update to my last post - Abbott have now provided me with a replacement sensor. If I was too hasty in my earlier comment, I apologise to Abbott - if my comment resulted in the replacement, I thank the forum. Now to get some tubigrip.....
 
I get the widest tubigrip... in 1m length. GP at old Practice put it on prescription for me!! Haven't asked here....
 
Hi
It's important that the Tubigrip isn't very tight, otherwise you could land yourself in more trouble. When I've used anything to support a suspect-getting-loose sensor, I've used a product called "Tubifast" which is great, allows your skin to breathe, elasticated, very comfortable etc. You can buy on a roll and so just cut off what you need. I have used it double.
 
Yes, I'm a skinny!! So you may have to look at tubifast. I have used that too...
 
Being a trendy... haaaah!! I also used to cut up mens socks and put over my insulin pump on my arm to colour coordinate it to my clothes... and disguise it if I wore short sleeve tshirts..
Had to nick hubbys socks as his were wider than mine!
 
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