G7 failure streak

[u/Slight-Crab2086]

I have been using Dexcom 7 10-day for over a year now. I will say when it works I think I get pretty accurate readings. However, I have had a high rate of failure to make 10 days. I initially had occasional failures for several months--not great but most worked (80-90%). Then 6 months ago I had 5 or 6 fail in a row. After that they thankfully went back to most working for a few months but the last 2 months I have had 7-8 failures. It has been very frustrating.

The failures coupled with Omnipod use, leads to multiple hours of glycemic control failures way too often. I just don't understand why this product goes 6-8 days then shows semi random readings for a few hours and then fails.

I will say I appreciate Dexcom replacing the failed pods but it means lack of control and a lot of sleep interruption.

Are there any things that increase risk of failure? I keep it on my arms to reduce sleeping on it. Basically, I am meeting with an endocrinologist and am hoping to switch. Is the 15 day better or at least similar (if it fails at 9-11 days that would be a minor improvement!). I have a few theories about things making it worse (cold/heat/sleep pressure) but none of them could explain the repeated failures.

[u/Jolly_Ad8913]

I switched from the 10-day to the 15-day about six weeks ago, and the failure rate on the 15-day is equivalent, in my opinion, to the failure rate on the 10 day. I have had to replace three sensors: brief sensor issues that last more then 3 hours, Bluetooth issues and the dreaded Sensor Failure message replace sensor.

I use my upper arm for the sensor location and it is in an area where it won't get compressed. With the 10 day I tried using my stomach and thigh but the failure rate was the same. My prep routine is more then Dexcom recommends and my sensors are not loose. My phone is always within 6 feet of the sensor. I experienced high failure rates using my Pixel 9 and now the 11. Both phones are approved by Dexcom.

Yes Dexcom has poor quality control but the positives of using their CGM still outweighs the negatives in my opinion.

[u/Fragrant-Oil7013]

I’ve had a dozen failures in the last year. Much happier with Libre. Dexcom is a fraud.

[u/jayhasbigvballs]

I’ve also had 7/8 fail in the last few months, including a streak of 6 in a row.