Maximizing the Benefits of Freestyle Libre: Avoiding Common Mistakes

📌 Common mistakes Freestyle Libre users make and how to avoid them.

⚠️ The danger of relying solely on the main screen for glucose data.

🔍 The importance of reviewing all available data on the Libre.

Analyzing daily patterns and glucose levels can reveal hidden trends and problem areas.

Submitting an online form can save time and stress when dealing with sensor issues.

Addressing misconceptions can build trust and reduce frustration with the Freestyle Libre.

⚡️ The Freestyle Libre measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, not blood glucose levels.

📈 There is a slight delay between finger stick readings and the readings from the Freestyle Libre due to the movement of glucose into the interstitial fluid.

🔍 The arrows next to the glucose levels on the Freestyle Libre indicate the direction and speed of glucose changes, allowing for anticipation of future changes.

💡 Placing the Freestyle Libre sensor on the back of the arm is important for its proper functioning.

🚪 Other locations of the arm have more muscle mass and expose the sensor to potential damage, such as catching on door handles.

❌ Not knowing a specific precaution can cause the Libre sensor to fall off.

The small holes on the Freestyle Libre sensor allow trapped fluid to drain, preventing the sensor from falling off prematurely.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing or patches over the sensor to maintain the adhesive bond to the skin.

Freestyle Libre offers an easy way to share glucose levels and diabetes care, challenging the notion of a solo diabetes journey.

📊 Sharing glucose levels with friends and family using the Libre link up app can help with monitoring.

📦 The freestyle Libre sensor may not come with sufficient adhesive, requiring additional measures to keep it in place.

❌ Making a specific mistake can lead to inaccurate glucose readings and potential risks.

⚠️ Taking a vitamin C supplement can cause false elevation in sensor glucose readings and potentially lead to missing severe low glucose events.

📈 Taking more than 500 milligrams of vitamin C per day can affect sensor glucose readings, and popular supplements contain 1000 milligrams per serving.

🩸 Salicylic acid, found in some over-the-counter medications, may cause slightly lower sensor glucose readings.