Taos Tech: Is Altitude Inflating Glucose Data?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget the glossy brochures and the Instagram-perfect mountain vistas for a moment. Let’s talk about something real: managing diabetes in the thin air of Taos, New Mexico. It’s not just about adjusting to the altitude; it’s about understanding how that altitude messes with your CGM and what you can do about it.
Living with diabetes is a daily balancing act. Throw in the reduced oxygen levels of high altitude, and that act gets a whole lot trickier.
Taos, New Mexico, sits at a lung-busting 6,969 feet above sea level. This isn’t just a scenic backdrop; it’s a physiological challenge, especially for those managing diabetes with a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). The lower oxygen levels, or hypoxia, can impact CGM accuracy, leading to potentially dangerous misinterpretations of your blood sugar levels.
Why does altitude affect CGM readings? It boils down to how CGMs work. They don’t directly measure blood glucose. Instead, they measure glucose in the interstitial fluid, the fluid surrounding your cells. This measurement relies on an electrochemical reaction. At higher altitudes, the reduced partial pressure of oxygen can interfere with this reaction, potentially skewing the results.
Think of it like this: your CGM is trying to read a book in a dimly lit room. The lower oxygen is like that dim light, making it harder for the CGM to accurately “see” the glucose levels.
So, what can you do about it? Here’s a practical guide for navigating the high-altitude CGM landscape of Taos (or any high-altitude location, really):
1. Calibrate, Calibrate, Calibrate: This is your first line of defense. More frequent calibrations with a fingerstick blood glucose meter are crucial. Don’t rely solely on your CGM’s factory settings. Check your blood sugar with a traditional meter at least 2-3 times a day, and use those readings to calibrate your CGM.
2. Understand Your Individual Response: Everyone reacts differently to altitude. Some people experience significant changes in their CGM accuracy, while others see minimal impact. Pay close attention to how your body feels at altitude and compare your CGM readings to fingerstick measurements. Keep a log of these comparisons to identify patterns.
3. Consider CGM Brand and Model: Not all CGMs are created equal. Some models may be more susceptible to altitude-induced inaccuracies than others. While research is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that some users find certain brands more reliable at high altitudes. Dexcom and Abbott FreeStyle Libre are two popular brands. Talk to your endocrinologist or a diabetes educator about which CGM might be best suited for your needs, considering your location.
4. Hydration is Key: Dehydration is a common issue at high altitude, and it can further complicate CGM accuracy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and even more if you’re physically active.
5. Be Aware of Hypoxia Symptoms: Hypoxia can mimic symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as dizziness, confusion, and rapid heartbeat. If you experience these symptoms, check your blood sugar with a fingerstick meter to confirm whether it’s truly low. Don’t rely solely on your CGM in this situation.
6. Adjust Insulin Doses Carefully: Because CGM readings might be less accurate at altitude, be extra cautious when adjusting your insulin doses. Start with smaller adjustments and monitor your blood sugar closely. Consult with your doctor about adjusting your insulin regimen for high-altitude living.
7. Troubleshooting Specific CGM Issues:
- Dexcom: Some Dexcom users report experiencing signal loss or inaccurate readings at high altitude. Ensure your transmitter is securely connected and that you’re within range of your receiver or smartphone. If you continue to experience issues, contact Dexcom support.
- Abbott FreeStyle Libre: Some users find that the FreeStyle Libre sensor readings can be affected by changes in temperature and humidity, which are common at high altitude. Avoid exposing your sensor to extreme temperatures and consider using a sensor cover to protect it from moisture.
8. Talk to Your Healthcare Team: This is perhaps the most important step. Discuss your plans to live or travel at high altitude with your endocrinologist or diabetes educator. They can provide personalized advice and adjust your diabetes management plan accordingly. They may also recommend additional monitoring or adjustments to your medication.
9. Consider a Backup Plan: Always have a backup plan in case your CGM malfunctions or becomes unreliable. This includes carrying a traditional blood glucose meter, test strips, and insulin. Know how to manage your diabetes using these tools in case your CGM fails.
10. Don’t Ignore Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel. If your CGM readings don’t match your symptoms, trust your instincts and check your blood sugar with a fingerstick meter. Your body is often the best indicator of what’s really going on.
Living with diabetes at high altitude presents unique challenges, but with careful planning, diligent monitoring, and close collaboration with your healthcare team, you can maintain good blood sugar control and enjoy the beauty of places like Taos, New Mexico. Don’t let the altitude hold you back; empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your diabetes management. Remember, accurate data is power, and in the thin air, that power needs a little extra boost.