FAQ: I got a Critical Low Alarm from Dexcom. What should I do?

FAQ:

I got a Critical Low Alarm from Dexcom. What should I do?

Answer:

Dexcom has a feature to warn you when your glucose falls below 55 mg/dL. This alarm goes off even if your phone is set to Silent, and there’s no way to disable it from the Dexcom app. While the majority of users don’t experience this, some people experience nighttime pressure-induced lows, which can cause the alarm to sound.

You have two options for halting these alarms. Note that it is only appropriate to halt these alarms if you are using the CGM for general wellness purposes through the Levels program. Anyone using the Dexcom for any medical purpose must not attempt to disable the alarms.

1. Turn off alarms in your phone’s Notification Settings.

For iOS:

Navigate to iPhone Settings >> In the top search bar, type Dexcom G6 or Dexcom G7 and select >> Select Notifications >>Toggle off both Critical Alerts and Time Sensitive Notifications

By turning off Critical Alerts and Time Sensitive Notifications for the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7 app, you will be able to continue to sync your data between your CGM transmitter and your phone, even if the Dexcom app tells you “Action Required!”

For Android:

Navigate to the app drawer >> long press on the Dexcom G6 or G7 app >> select App Info. On the following screen, you have override control for any notifications that come from the app.

2. Turn off your phone’s Bluetooth to prevent alerts.

When you turn Bluetooth back on in the morning, if you're using the Dexcom G6, you’ll see some lost data as the G6 sensor can only store up to 3 hours of data. If you're using the Dexcom G7 or Dexcom Stelo, it can store 24 hours' worth of data.

Please note that there is an increased likelihood of the Critical Alarm during the first 24 hours of wearing the sensor.

If you have other questions, feel free to email the Levels Support Team at support@levels.com.

Further Reading:

Dexcom G6 CGM troubleshooting