Recently diagnosed with T2 and got the Freestyle Libre. Wondering if anyone knows if there is an issue with readings if you have had a mastectomy and use the Libre on the arm on that side? Does it affect the readings? So far I have been using my right arm, but would like to try switching and figured I would ask the forum if anyone has experience with this. Thanks!
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Type 2 Freestyle Libre which arm to use
- Thread starter Ceinlys
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Hello there Ceinlys. I'm sorry you've had to deal with BC and now T2, but there are others on here treading the same path as yourself.
Firstly, could I please clarify if you have completed all your treatments - surgery, chemo, radiotherapy, or whatever. I understand some of the hormonal treatments go on much longer than the aggressive initial stuff.
I'll tag our friends @Bluetit1802 and @donnellysdogs who have both been down the BC route and have used the Libre, so are likely far better placed than I to comment.
Welcome aboard the forum. There is a raft of experience here, so please do stick with us.
eventhorizon
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Have you tried a leg? Anywhere around the thigh works very well for me.
D
Deleted Account
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Sorry I can't answer your question about BC and Libre placement.
When considering other places to put your Libre apart from the upper arm, a few things to consider
- Abbott only "support" placement on the upper arm. If you put it somewhere else and experience problems (different readings, skin reactions, etc.), Abbot may not be willing to assist.
- I have discovered frequent movement affects the longevity and accuracy of Libre and CGM. For example, I used to use DexCom which is supposed to be placed on the abdomen. I discovered my readings became less accurate after a gym session including sit-ups. I suspect some movements will dislodge the sensor.
When considering other places to put your Libre apart from the upper arm, a few things to consider
- Abbott only "support" placement on the upper arm. If you put it somewhere else and experience problems (different readings, skin reactions, etc.), Abbot may not be willing to assist.
- I have discovered frequent movement affects the longevity and accuracy of Libre and CGM. For example, I used to use DexCom which is supposed to be placed on the abdomen. I discovered my readings became less accurate after a gym session including sit-ups. I suspect some movements will dislodge the sensor.
Bluetit1802
Legend
The reason why we should not puncture a particular arm is not because of the mastectomy, but if we also had under arm lymph nodes removed. If that is the case, any infection risk to that arm should be avoided. The reason being it can cause lymphodaema. The lymph nodes are no longer there to do the job of fighting infections. This includes vaccinations and even blood pressure cuffs.
I am 6 years on from my treatment and do use both arms for my Libres. I would not have done 6 years ago.
Just to add - I have no idea if current treatment would affect the way your Libre works, but the reason for not wearing one on the "bad" arm is simply the risk of infection.
I am 6 years on from my treatment and do use both arms for my Libres. I would not have done 6 years ago.
Just to add - I have no idea if current treatment would affect the way your Libre works, but the reason for not wearing one on the "bad" arm is simply the risk of infection.
Thanks so much for your response. Yes, I have completed all my treatments. Did not need chemo or radiation, but am on medication (Letrozole) going into my 3rd year, Haven't had issues with Libre on right arm, but wondered about alternating with left. Post mastectomy, the left arm is still a bit numb - getting some feelings back in it.
Thanks so much for your response. This is my 2nd trip with BC. In 2003 had lumpectomy on right side and did 6 weeks of radiation treatment. Lymph nodes were removed. Then after 13 years in remission, in 2016 diagnosed with BC on left side and had mastectomy, and again lymph nodes removed. Early this year diagnosed with T2. A nurse in the hospital where I was getting tests done mentioned to me I should be careful with which arm is used when they do blood pressure readings, and also which arm is used for blood tests. Given that lymph nodes have been removed from both sides, I ask the health professionals to figure out which arm should be used. I always make them use my right arm for BP. I do have lymphedema but it is not in my arm, but the left side of my body under my arm. Sounding like I should wait before attempting to use that arm for Libre.... Btw, I am not on diabetes medication - diet controlled and getting good readings.
Thought you could only use Libre on upper arm. Another response mentioned placing it in a different area and getting issues with readings, as well as support from Abbott if you place on a different area. Hmmmmm, if that option is open......
Thanks for asking this question and sorry you’re going through this bc journey. I’m 15mo post mastectomy and on cgm for reactive hypoglycemia that bounces to hyperglycemia (disregulation of many systems) and using freestyle Libre. I used to use dexcom and was able to move around more but Libre says arm only leaving one arm getting irritated and the other mad at lymph removal and use of pump on left arm and trunk. I think I’ll try another location (after all the great input on this thread) even if it’s a fail, i shall call it research. I will report back. Thanks everyone.
Ushthetaff
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I can’t use my left arm because I have a fistula , so I use other parts of my body. I don’t ever put it on the back of my arm ( the recommended place)I use leg ,chest , inside right bicep etc , I’ve never had a problem , checked against a finger prick and readings are all acceptable . With regard recommendation of area , how are Abbott going to know ? Personally I’ve never been asked , and if I was I’m sure I could live with myself for telling a wee “ porkie” My theory is I have to live with diabetes on a daily , weekly , yearly basis ad infinitum , so I will make things as easy for myself as I can, I do this by experimenting , sounds a bit blasé but it’s not really , I would never do something without checking against what it does to my bs ( always checking against a finger prick ) using this method it has made my life a lot easier after all it’s me who has to live with diabetes and there are lots f things to do with diabetes that have changed for me being told to use needles until they were blunt being one ! And let’s face it does everyone change needles every time there are a few things we all do different from recommendations so why not let this be another one
