Key Takeaways:
- The FreeStyle Libre 2 System helps users adjust their diet, activity, and insulin use for better glucose control. It simplifies diabetes management by providing timely and accurate glucose readings.
- If your FreeStyle Libre 2 System reader shows inaccurate glucose readings, the issue is likely with the CGM sensor rather than the reader itself, or other common factors.
- Software glitches, such as issues with starting a new sensor or persistent warm-up loops, might require troubleshooting instead of an assumed reset.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 System allows users to make timely adjustments to their diet, activity, and insulin use, leading to improved glucose level control. Your Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System is made to make managing your diabetes more convenient and accurate.
You can always consult the user manual or customer support if you're unsure about troubleshooting your device if you encounter specific problems. In some cases, simply turning your FreeStyle Libre 2 system reader off and on again can resolve the issue.
Troubleshooting Your FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader
If you're experiencing issues with your FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader, potential causes could include:
Inaccurate Readings
You may feel that the results the FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader is giving are inaccurate, and feel that you may need to "reset" the reader. In most instances, you may simply need to unplug and plug it back in.
However, the reader plays no part in calculating glucose readings, so it is never responsible for inaccuracies, and it is likely to be the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor that is causing the disparity in readings when compared to a finger stick. This can be for a myriad of reasons, such as:
- The sensor applicator is not placed in soft tissue.
- Pressure against the actual sensor while sleeping, being dehydrated, or taking particular medications/vitamins/supplements.
- You have a bad or old sensor.
- Intense exercise.
- Temperature and sensor storage conditions before use.
- You have just eaten or taken insulin.
In fact, your glucose readings are likely not to be inaccurate at all. A CGM reading is different from the fingerstick comparison because it uses interstitial fluid to get the value rather than blood, and blood is quicker to react to changes in glucose than interstitial fluid.
Software "Glitch"
This can cover a variety of issues. One example is, if a sensor falls off, a new sensor is inserted and scanned, but the reader says it is unable to start the new sensor. This can be a FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader software issue or it may simply be a bad or old sensor.
Another example is when the sensor is going through warm up, it starts looping and repeating the warm up session but never actually starts. This too, could be a software problem or an issue with the sensor. There are different software glitches possible, but the resolution is always the same.
Instead of looking for a reset option, patients should speak to their healthcare professional, Libre Technical Support, or Aeroflow's CGM Specialist for assistance with troubleshooting their FreeStyle Libre 2 System.
As an example, an hour after eating, when blood sugar can be rising really quickly, there can be a wide difference between a fingerstick and CGM reading. To learn more about how to interpret the data from your CGM, you can schedule an appointment with an Aeroflow CGM Specialist here.
Clearing Out Old Data From Your FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader
If a patient decides to give their reader to a friend or family member, they may feel they have to "reset" their reader in order to clear away all the readings that have been recorded and stored in it.
Abbott states that the FreeStyle Libre 2 System is indicated for single-patient use only. Your CGM is not supposed to be given away or transferred to anybody; only to be used by who it was prescribed for. Readings cannot be deleted from the device, and the reader cannot be reset.
If someone you know could benefit from a FreeStyle Libre 2 System, have them fill out our secure Eligibility Form to find out if they are eligible for their own CGM!
If issues persist with the FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader, it is recommended the patient calls the Abbott customer support team for guidance, where you most likely would be provided with a replacement CGM if in-warranty.
Getting Help With Your FreeStyle Libre 2 System Reader
The FreeStyle Libre 2 System allows users to make timely adjustments to their diet, activity, and insulin use, leading to improved glucose level control. Your CGM is made to make managing your diabetes more convenient and accurate.
You can always consult the user manual or customer support if you're unsure about troubleshooting your device if you encounter specific problems.
Some reasons may include addressing software glitches or unresponsiveness to improve your CGM’s functionality. If you encounter pairing issues with a new sensor or sensor loops, turning your FreeStyle Libre 2 System off and back on again may help the functionality.
If persistent issues continue despite troubleshooting, call our CGM Specialists, or call Abbott, the manufacturer's customer support line at (224) 667-6100.
How to Get a Low-Cost CGM With Medicare & Aeroflow Diabetes
To find out if you or your loved one qualify for a CGM through Medicare, please complete our secure Eligibility Form.
This process is straightforward and your information will be kept confidential. After you submit the form, we will reach out to inform you of your eligibility status.
Once approved, and depending on your insurance plan, you can choose from a selection of CGMs covered by Medicare, including:
For additional guidance, check out our blog for resources on common questions about using CGMs, such as device placement, connecting to your Apple or Android mobile device, and more!
Karen Case, Accuracy Reviewer & Continuous Glucose Monitor Specialist
Karen Case has a passion for working in the healthcare industry, understanding medicine, diabetes, and diseases. She holds an Associate’s degree in Medical Assisting and worked as the Head of Triage at Asheville Endocrinology for 10 years where she learned everything she could about diabetes, thyroid issues, and other endocrine issues. Karen currently works as the Continuous Glucose Monitor Specialist at Aeroflow Diabetes where she educates patients around the topics of diabetes, medications, continuous glucose monitors, pumps, insulin, and more.
About the Author
Julia Dietrich is the Marketing Coordinator at Aeroflow Diabetes. A graduate of Kean University with a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising, Julia has contributed to many marketing campaigns across different industries and understands well how important diabetes prevention, management, and education are for overall health and wellness.
Outside of her work, Julia enjoys photography, cooking, and spending time with family. Her background in marketing and dedication to patient advocacy and wellness, coincide with her commitment to educate and promote diabetes management.
Aeroflow Diabetes Disclaimer
Information provided on the Aeroflow Diabetes website is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or care from a healthcare professional. Aeroflow recommends consulting your healthcare provider if you are experiencing medical issues relating to diabetes care.
