Managing diabetes involves closely monitoring your blood glucose levels. This is crucial because fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause serious health issues. There are two main methods for tracking blood glucose: fingerstick tests and continuous glucose monitors (CGM). Fingerstick tests involve pricking your finger to get a small blood sample, which is then tested for glucose levels. This method provides a snapshot of your blood sugar at that specific moment. To get a comprehensive understanding, multiple tests throughout the day are necessary. On the other hand, CGMs offer a more detailed picture. They can take up to 288 readings per day, providing continuous data on your glucose levels. CGMs can track glucose levels both day and night, showing trends and patterns over time. This data can be viewed by both the patient and healthcare providers, making it easier to adjust treatment plans. Some CGMs even send real-time data to your medical team. While fingerstick tests are useful for immediate readings, CGMs offer a more comprehensive and continuous monitoring solution.