It is essential to monitor glucose levels in your blood to reduce the complications of diabetes in long-term and unpleasant symptoms of high and low blood sugar levels. Blood sugar monitoring through a glucometer is essential because you do A1C tests every four to six months. The results come out as an average. However, you can still have high or low blood sugar readings.
Keep reading to know what a glucometer is and how it works.
A glucometer device, also known as a glucose meter, is a small portable device that allows you to monitor your blood glucose levels at your convenience. A glucometer will give appropriate data if you have Type-1 or Type-2 diabetes. For diabetic patients, a glucometer helps to monitor and manage glucose level regularly. Some glucose meters come with added features which include:
Now that you have an idea of what a glucometer is and what are its uses, let us get into the details as to how it works.
These are just general instructions and might vary from one model to another.
You will find a user manual with each device when you purchase a glucometer. Read the user manual thoroughly to know about the guidelines.
Also, your doctor might suggest you consult a certified diabetic educator or CDE who will guide you on how to use a glucometer.
Before beginning the process of sample collection, ensure you have the following supplies:
Here are the following steps to use a glucometer:
Step 1: Wash your hands properly and sanitise before drawing blood from your fingertips.
Step 2: Clean the area with an alcohol pad to prevent any infection.
Step 3: Allow your skin to dry out naturally. Do not blow air to dry it as it might cause your skin to get infected.
Step 1: Insert the test strip and turn on the glucometer. Allow the device to let you know when you should put blood onto the inserted strip.
Step 2: Pierce the fingertip with a lancing strip. You might feel a slight pain which is bearable.
Step 3: Squeeze your finger to produce a sufficient drop of blood.
Step 4: Carefully place on the strip the blood drop.
Step 5: Rub your finger with the alcohol pad to stop bleeding and avoid infection.
Step 6: Wait for a few seconds, and your device will show glucose results in your blood.
If you find it difficult to get a blood sample or get an inappropriate reading, wash and warm your hands before your prick again.
After using the lancets, it is necessary to dispose of these components in a proper container. You can ask your physician to provide you with a sharps container and a plastic bottle. This will help you to dispose of the same after checking the disposal regulations. So, now that you know what is a glucometer and what is the use of glucometer let us come to who can use the device.
When you have Type-1 Diabetes, your pancreas stops making insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin helps the cells in your body use glucose/sugar in your blood. It is an autoimmune disease caused not only by insulin deficiency but also by hyperglycaemia in people. Recent news reports show that more than 1.1 million people under 20 years are diagnosed with Type-1 Diabetes globally. Therefore frequent testing is mandatory as it ensures that you have the required insulin to stabilise your blood sugar levels. If you have Type-1 Diabetes, you must test your glucose levels approximately five to ten times daily. Here is when you might test:
Your body continues to produce insulin in Type-2 and gestational diabetes. But it is unable to use the insulin properly, making your blood sugar levels rise and hence named insulin resistance. If you have Type-2 Diabetes, you may require testing twice or four times daily, depending on what your doctor prescribes. Here is when you can test:
You should properly use your glucometer, which will help you to avoid incorrect readings. Therefore, you should follow the below:
Additionally, if lancing is too painful for you, here are some options you can choose:
So, now you know all about glucometer meaning and how it functions. If you are a diabetic patient or notice any symptoms of diabetes, consult your physician immediately. Your doctor will guide you best by showing you what is a glucometer and how you can stabilise your blood sugar levels through continuous monitoring.
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