Discover the latest diabetes innovations offering hope for easier glucose monitoring, including continuous, non-invasive devices, aiming to minimize or eliminate painful finger pricks, particularly beneficial for kids.
Dealing with diabetes can feel like a never-ending series of finger pricks, right? We get it. Especially when you’re trying to manage it in kids. All those little blood samples just to check their glucose levels… it’s tough on everyone. But what if we told you scientists and researchers have been putting in some serious hours, trying to find ways around this? That’s right, we’re talking new innovations to make monitoring sugar levels easier for everyone.
Let’s get into the details—we’ll keep it simple and straightforward.
- Solving the Problem of Finger Pricks
- Glucose Monitoring Without Pain
- Solving the Problem of Finger Pricks
That said, we’ll explore this topic further.
Solving the Problem of Finger Pricks
You know, these efforts are changing the game for patients. I remember reading about a glucose meter developed by a German company, Boehringer Mannheim—back when it was a huge device! I think this was in 1984, when doctors started using it. Now, the devices are way smaller and more accurate, and you barely need any blood for a reading. It’s wild how far things have come.
See it on video: Basic uses of tools with children.
Glucose Monitoring Without Pain
And then in 2004, I stumbled upon information about a laser device that could take blood samples without causing pain. The coolness factor alone made me pay attention. This device, designed to reduce the pain, anxiety and the cost of supplies needed for managing blood sugar, especially in kids, was an absolute game changer. Turns out this was suspended because, apparently, the laser device was causing pain – go figure? I recall insulin being stored in clunky glass bottles at the time – now it’s carried around in a small pen.
More recently, the FDA has approved a device by an American company that monitors blood glucose continuously… without the need for finger pricks to get a blood sample.
Solving the Problem of Finger Pricks
It’s safe to say scientists and specialized companies worldwide are working day and night to solve the finger-prick problem and get rid of it for good. Um, all these tech advances focus on: continuous, real-time blood glucose monitoring… or in technical jargon non-invasive glucose monitoring.
These were all dreams in the nineties, but things are changing. I was reading about a watch, Pendra, that works by shooting tiny electric currents into your skin. It causes your skin to sweat, which is then analyzed using sensors to estimate your blood glucose levels. That said, the watch sends the data wirelessly to other devices showing the reading—pretty high-tech stuff, huh? But new trials are showing that the results can be a little off. And it’s not FDA-approved so it’s kind of a bust. Treating diabetes with herbs—is that even legit?
Even so, some technologies use red, or yellow light, to analyze eye fluid that fluctuates depending on your blood sugar level.
But what about the newer tech that’s been popping up lately and recently got the FDA’s blessing?
The FDA approved a device that monitors blood sugar without finger pricks. Sounds too good to be true right? It’s a real game changer because it can help patients stay on top of their glucose levels. The producing company, however, has not revealed too many details about it because it’s not commercially available yet, and will hit the market in late Summer of 2022. Benefits in the treatment of diabetes… and other stuff?
The available details indicate that it consists of two parts:
The first part is a sensor, based on nanotechnology. This sensor is a thin electronic strip, thinner than a strand of hair, implanted under the skin, usually in the abdomen area, and wirelessly sends data on glucose levels in the blood. This is the cool part. The manufacturer plans to use it in its next-generation glucose monitors, which will be more accurate, and smaller.
The second part receives the glucose data and transmits it wirelessly to another device: this is called the Transmitter.
For kids, this can be a game-changer. Here’s how it works: The sensor analyzes the glucose level in the blood; sends the data to the transmitter; which then sends it wirelessly to a device that can read the glucose levels; and even to an insulin pump so the patient receives the right dose of insulin when needed. Video with graphics: The natural treatment of diabetes
This comprehensive system may get us to the point of an artificial pancreas. It would be awesome, right?
The company is working to combine this system into a single device approved by the FDA, but isn’t on the market yet.
And now, I remember that the manufacturer mentioned on its website that the door is open for this innovation, and the sensor needs replacing every week or two, and the FDA requires that the manufacturer provides detailed reports on the accuracy, and reliability of this device, so that patients can be continuously monitored.
We hope this system helps accurately measure blood glucose levels, and that it’s much easier to use.
“I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child, and managing my blood sugar was always a challenge. The constant finger pricks were painful and disruptive. This new technology has been a game-changer. I can now monitor my glucose levels continuously and painlessly, which has significantly improved my quality of life.”
“As a parent of a child with diabetes, I was always worried about the impact of frequent blood sugar checks on my child’s well-being. This non-invasive glucose monitoring system has provided peace of mind. My child can now live a more normal life without the constant discomfort and anxiety associated with traditional methods.”
Myth & Facts
Myth: Herbal remedies can replace insulin for diabetes management.
Fact: While some herbs may have properties that can help regulate blood sugar levels, they should never be used as a substitute for insulin or other prescribed medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.
Question: How often do continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors need to be replaced?
Answer: CGM sensors typically need to be replaced every 7 to 14 days, depending on the brand and type of sensor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper sensor replacement.
So, seeing all these breakthroughs, especially this non-invasive glucose monitoring system, gives me hope. It’s like, okay, maybe managing diabetes won’t always be so… invasive.
