Diabetes Test

See Your Own Diabetes

Once upon a time, the level of control of diabetes was determined by testing the urine of diabetic patients with a special reagent, whether it was red, yellow, green, or blue. But it was not accurate. The process was also troublesome. With the advancement of science over time, people can easily determine blood sugar or glucose levels at home with a small device. Glucometers can almost accurately test for diabetes with less than a drop of blood from a fingertip or fingertip. But patients have many questions about the method and results of using a glucometer.

Which one to use?

Buy a good quality, affordable, and easy-to-use glucometer. Be sure to check the after-sales service before buying. Find out if the strip is available or not.

Method of use

Wash your hands thoroughly or dry them with disinfectant.

The strips prescribed for the specific glucometer should be used. Use a new needle or lancet for each injection.

Test with a large drop of blood that comes out spontaneously without squeezing. Because very little blood (0.3-1 microliter) is required per glucometer. However, if it is too low, you may not get the result.

Use a different finger on repeated tests.

Record the test time and result on the prescribed chart.

Carefully dispose of used strips and needles in a safe place.

Keep the glucometer clean.

How often do you test?

The frequency of blood tests depends on the type of diabetes, treatment, diet, and other related diseases. In some cases four to eight times daily may be required. For example, three meals before and two hours after the main meal. Some may need to be tested at bedtime or at the end of the night, before and after walking or exercise.

Those taking oral sulfonylureas should be tested at least once a week in the morning on an empty stomach and two hours after three main meals.

Patients taking insulin can do the above regimen at least two to three times a week or in splits, such as one day in the morning on an empty stomach and after a meal, and another day at noon or before and after dinner.

However, more frequent tests may be necessary for people whose diabetes fluctuates wildly, other illnesses, or changes in the type or dosage of medication. Apart from this, if there are signs of low blood sugar in the body, immediately check with the help of a glucometer and take necessary measures.

How accurate are the results obtained?

A good quality glucometer gives almost accurate results. However, various physical problems such as low hematocrit, anemia, or dehydration can lead to false reports. In addition, results may be incorrect if insufficient blood reaches the strip, expired or unused strips, or wrong strip codes. A glucometer can indicate high or low when blood sugar is too high or too low. If in doubt, it should be confirmed by laboratory testing. Usually, there is some difference in the results of the test in the laboratory and in the glucometer. The glucometer should be tested at the same time in the lab to check the accuracy of the measurement at regular intervals. In particular, HbA1c should be checked every three months to see if the average sugar level is normal.

Importance

Currently, considering the importance of good diabetes management, patients are encouraged to check their blood sugar levels regularly at home. Patients should be educated about this if the blood sugar level increases or decreases by testing at home, the patient and his relatives should be given a proper idea about the basic and urgent actions. Especially in situations like hypoglycemia or low blood sugar (below four millimoles) a glucometer can save one's life. If such levels are found, the patient should be fed sugary foods immediately.

Read more. Diabetes Heart Attack