CGM and Insulin Pump Optimization
Getting the Most from Your CGM
- Learn to read trends and arrows - they're more important than single numbers
- Set custom alert ranges based on your activities (tighter during school, wider during sports)
- Use predictive alerts to prevent highs and lows before they happen
- Calibrate properly and on time for accurate readings
- Understand sensor warm-up periods and accuracy windows
Pump Management Skills
- Master temporary basal rates for exercise, illness, and special situations
- Learn advanced bolus features: extended, combo, and correction boluses
- Optimize your insulin-to-carb ratios and correction factors with your team
- Understand insulin on board (IOB) and how it affects dosing
- Practice disconnecting and reconnecting safely for sports and activities
Diabetes Management Apps and Tools
Essential Apps for Teens
- CGM companion apps: Dexcom, FreeStyle LibreLink, Guardian Connect
- Pump control apps: t:connect, CareLink, Omnipod, Medtronic
- Carb counting apps: CalorieKing, MyFitnessPal, Carb Manager
- Logging apps: mySugr, Glucose Buddy, One Drop
- Community apps: Connect with other teens with T1D
Using Apps Effectively
- Log consistently - even just a week of data can reveal patterns
- Use photo features to track meals and learn carb estimates
- Set reminders for site changes, refills, and appointments
- Track exercise, stress, and sleep to see how they affect your numbers
- Review reports before endo appointments to discuss trends
Data Sharing with Parents and Healthcare Team
Finding the Right Balance
- Discuss boundaries with parents - what level of monitoring feels supportive vs. intrusive
- Use Follow apps to give parents peace of mind without constant texting
- Agree on alert thresholds that trigger parent notifications
- Schedule regular check-ins instead of constant surveillance
- Prove your responsibility to earn more independence over time
Sharing with Your Healthcare Team
- Upload data before appointments so you can focus on discussion
- Be honest about your management - they're there to help, not judge
- Point out patterns you've noticed and ask for interpretation
- Use remote monitoring features for virtual check-ins between appointments
- Ask for access to your own data portal to track your progress
Troubleshooting Technology Issues
Common CGM Problems
- "No readings": Check transmitter connection, sensor position, phone Bluetooth
- Inaccurate readings: Calibrate, check sensor site, ensure proper hydration
- Sensor falls off: Use skin prep, barrier wipes, and overtape for protection
- Compression lows: Change sleeping position or sensor location
- Keep backup finger-stick supplies for when technology fails
Pump Troubleshooting
- High blood sugar with pump: Check for occlusions, air bubbles, site issues
- No delivery alarms: Change site immediately, take correction with pen/syringe
- Repeated site failures: Try different areas, depth settings, or infusion sets
- Always have backup insulin pens and injection supplies
- Know your pump company's 24/7 tech support number
Building Tech-Savvy Management Skills
Data Analysis for Better Control
- Review AGP (Ambulatory Glucose Profile) reports to see overall patterns
- Look for time-of-day trends: morning highs, afternoon lows, overnight patterns
- Track time in range (TIR) - aim for 70% or higher
- Identify high variability days and look for causes
- Use standard deviation to measure consistency
Becoming Your Own Expert
- Learn to make small adjustments to basals and ratios with your team's guidance
- Experiment with pre-bolusing timing for different foods
- Document what works for you - create your own playbook
- Stay updated on new technology and features
- Join online communities to learn tips from other tech users