I found the libre fantastic. I started, after a few sensors, to get some itchy redness. I was reluctant to give up on the libre as it was so good for my diabetic management. I read many fora that suggested applying over various plasters, so I persisted, as things got progressively worse. Eventually my whole body reacted. I was covered in allergic eczema. At the site of my sensor was a weeping red wound. My hands and feet were covered in blisters and my thighs became ulcerated and infected, taking four courses of antibiotics to regain control. I had to be tested to establish what my reaction was to. This was done at Salford Royal Hospital. They found that my primary reaction was to Colophonium (pine resin)used in most plasters, including plasters I had tried as a barrier, such as Compede. In my persistence in using the libre over plasters, I had failed to take into consideration that, virtually all medical adhesives, contain Colophonium, to improve adhesion. I had sent my body into a form of allergic shock, risking anaphylactic shock, according to my GP. I had also triggered allergic reactions to many other substances including parfumerie, limonene, cinnemal, citrus peel, and dozens of other substances. Over twelve months on since using my last sensor I am still weeping from my nipples and suffering from severe eczema, which is for good. I informed Abbot, to alert them to the risk, but they offered no positive help. The only medical tape that appears free from Colophonium is Scanpore tape.
