Exercise
Tips from DiabetesWise
Tips to keep sensors from falling off during activity:
Avoid putting new sensor or pump site on immediately after a shower or swimming
Make sure skin is DRY and avoid applying creams/lotions to area where sensor or pump site will be inserted
Consider washing the site (sensor or pump) with soap and water and apply rubbing alcohol (example: alcohol swab) to increase the likelihood of full-length wear time
Make sure to rub the tape around the site (sensor or pump) immediately after insertion for 10-30 seconds to secure and smooth out any wrinkles
Make sure you are ordering/purchasing the correct size and shape overlay patch for your devices (For example: If you wear a Dexcom G6 CGM, make sure the overlay tape you order is for Dexcom G6 and not for Dexcom G5)
Consider using overlay tapes that have a cutout/hole in them because those without a cutout/hole may cause issues because sweat can build up underneath the tape during activity and may impact accuracy of devices
If you want to simply test out whether you like a specific overlay patch, you can reach out to most CGM overlay patch companies and request a free sample (some companies will send a free overlay patch to test it out before ordering a whole box/bundle!)
Overlay Tape Products
Have you ever gone for a swim or finished a sweaty workout only to notice that your infusion set or CGM adhesive is reaching the end of its lifetime sooner than you'd like? Adhesive patches are designed to secure insulin pump infusion sets and CGM sensors. These adhesives can help the device stay on longer, especially during exercise or physical activity. Some companies also sell decorative adhesives to secure your devices and provide a fun way to express yourself!
Other Adhesive Products:
Sometimes, overlay tapes and the device adhesive can cause skin irritations and frustrations with wear time. Here is a list of products that can help protect your skin and prevent your adhesives from falling off too soon:
- SkinTac adhesive barrier wipes
- Flonase spray – can be used to help prevent allergic reactions on the skin
- No-Sting Skin-Prep
- Cavilon Barrier Film (to prevent allergic reactions)
- Spray: 3M Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film
- Cream: 3M Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream
- Wipes: Cavilon Wipe Barrier Film
- Mastisol and Detachol liquid adhesive and remover (also need cotton ball/gauze to help apply)
- Skin Grip Adhesive Remover: https://skingrip.com/collections/dexcom-g6/products/adhesive-remover
