A glucometer tests blood sugar levels and comes in various models with different features. It’s important to choose the right one and use it regularly, following instructions and keeping it clean. Testing before and after meals and when feeling high or low is recommended, and frequent testing is necessary when medication changes occur. Regular testing is crucial for managing diabetes and avoiding complications.
A glucometer is a device that is used to test the level of glucose or blood sugar. A portable blood glucose meter is a handy battery-operated model that’s small enough to carry around. To use a blood glucose meter correctly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Many kits include a phone number that you can call for technical support.
Ask your doctor which type of blood glucose meter is right for you. Some meters allow you to test blood in areas other than your fingertip, which may be more comfortable for some people. However, many doctors prefer the fingertip method as it can give a more accurate glucose reading.
Choosing a blood glucose meter doesn’t have to be difficult, even though there are more than two dozen models available, each offering many useful features. Some require less blood collection to give an accurate reading. One type of blood glucose meter, considered extremely convenient, no longer requires test strips but instead uses a “drum” mechanism. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist to narrow down the list by recommending only a few meters that you can choose from, taking into account comfort and budget.
Whichever meter you choose, keep it clean, and when strips are needed, use the appropriate strips for best results. It is important to test your blood sugar regularly. Giving your doctor frequent and accurate blood glucose readings helps him monitor the disease and adjust the level of medications he needs.
If you’re not sure how often you should have your blood tested, follow the guidelines offered by the American Diabetes Association. The Association recommends testing at least three times a day for people with type 1 diabetes, and while there is no suggested testing schedule for people with type 2 diabetes, there are some general rules to follow in mind:
It’s best to test your blood sugar before a meal and again an hour or two after a meal to compare glucose levels.
It is important to use your meter whenever you feel your sugar is high or low.
If your doctor changes your drug or dosage, it’s a good idea to get tested more often so your doctor can study the drug’s effects on glucose levels.
Diabetes can have very serious complications. Incorporating a testing schedule into your daily routine is a necessary part of regulating the disease and safeguarding your health.
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