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Dexcom sensor

S

Scolleen

Member
Messages
19
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Pump
I have a dexcom sensor and have been rotating my site mostly on my stomach along with my insulin pump site, so my stomach is taking a beating between the two. I recently got the ok from my doctor to put my dexcom sensor on the back of my arm which is great, but it seems to catch more there since it sticks out more than my pump site. What is everyone's favorite spot for the sensor??
Thanks and cheers!
 
I like my arm. I put it on the bingo wing (perhaps you aren't lucky enough to have such a delight) or on your inner arm, closer to your body. I also like my ribs for pump and dexcom sites - along the side and back of my ribs - although more prone to compression lows at night when I put the sensor there.

I've seen people putting dexcom sensors on their legs, thighs, lower back, saddle bag area - basically around the pants area without actually being in your pants! I've not tried my lower body for dex though so not sure how it works.
 
Thanks! Great info. I have tried my lower back with my pump site but I remember it getting caught on chairs and ripping out- ouch! But you gave me a few good ideas. Thank u so much!
 
I place the sensor on the front of my arm
 
My CGM sensors have all been put on my arms. I get a longer life out of them there.
 
I prefer the top of my arm towards the outside. I got too many compression lows on the back of my arm and found it a bit itchy.

I guess it depends on how you sleep, but I'd agree that I seem to get a longer lifespan out of sensors in my arms.
 
I just had to pull one from my arm after a day, the wire seem to be giving touching a muscle and while the sensor was ok, when I twisted my arm a certain way I felt a quick sharp pain. When I woke up the next day my arm ached so I pulled it. The site feels tender even now.

It was on the back (bingo wing section?). Anyone got any tips on how to avoid this in future? I did the pinch up and everything but once i let go it must have poked my muscle. I had one on my arm a bit higher up and it was the nicest place yet.

I struggle for chub places so any suggestions for a rather lean individual would be ace! I always pinch up and there is talks of an omnipod at some point so I may need as many sites as I can get!
 
@ElkBond, I share the same issue as you but wish I had a solution. I've wasted three sensors trying to insert them into my arm, getting that same pain/problem, and ultimately giving up.

My best theory is that you want to place the sensor in an area that allows the sensor wire to remain parallel to your muscle. On your arm (tricep) that would mean the sensor would need to be installed horizontally if that makes sense.

This is where I wear my sensor. It's by far the most comfortable location on my body. The sensor wire follows the curvature of my ribs, but it's protected by my arms and lats from getting bumped or hit. It's also far enough on my side that I can sleep on my stomach which is very important to me.

 
@TorqPenderloin I have also wasted a few sensors due pain, inserting issues and trying to find the "right" spot. But dexcom has been pretty awesome about replacing each of those sensors. Did you get your sensors replaced? If not it's for sure worth a call.
 

I have had Dexcom replace several sensors in the past when the sensor did not work properly, but in these instances I elected not to ask for a replacement. Call me old fashioned, but I'm big on principle, and if I caused the issue I feel that I should have to pay for it.

I do appreciate the advice though
 
@TorqPenderloin, I hear ya! I felt the same as well but they advised me that if your in pain or its uncomfortable to take it out and they will be more than happy to replace it. I would find myself leaving it in even if it was painful due to not wanting to waste it. Sadly, my insurance will only send me exactly what I need so it does not leave me with any extras. And I hate to go without wearing one due to a shortage. I am super active and it has made HUGE difference in my life.
 
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