Saturday, August 04, 2007
Diabetes Blood Sugar Level Monitoring
How do I monitor my blood sugar levels?
Q I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes 10 years ago and have been on medication. My blood sugar levels have been erratic of late, and my doctor has advised me to monitor them more regularly. Is it really necessary? How do I go about the self-monitoring?
Answer: It is highly recommended for diabetic patients to monitor their own blood sugar levels, which helps them manage their condition.
Frequent self-monitoring will show if the desired levels of blood glucose have been reached. If not, follow-up action can be taken quickly to prevent the worsening of the condition and other complications.
In addition, patients who monitor themselves can detect low blood sugar, a dangerous condition which could cause loss of consciousness or even death. Low blood sugar could be caused by taking too much diabetic medication or not enough food. So, such monitoring not only helps patients manage their diabetes, it might even save their lives.
How often a patient should monitor himself depends on his condition, though it is usually carried out at least two times daily.
To monitor your own blood glucose, you will need a glucose meter, lancets, test strips and alcohol swabs. There are many brands of glucose meters in the market which are available in pharmacies. The choice will depend on cost, ease of use, memory function, size and after-sale service.
Some tips on blood glucose monitoring:
>>Perform self-monitoring regularly, as advised.
>>Know your target blood sugar level.
>>Keep a log of all measured results and show it to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse on each visit.
>>Before you start the test, ensure the glucose meter is coded correctly.
>>Always use a new lancet for each test.
>>Disinfect your hands before each test and allow the alcohol to dry before pricking yourself with the lancet.
>>Obtain the blood sample from the sides of the finger: It is less painful.
>>Do not squeeze to get the blood sample. To get a sufficient sample, rub your palms each time before taking it. This will improve blood circulation.
>>Dispose of any unused vials of test strips if they have been opened for more than three months or after the expiration date.
Feel free to seek further clarification from your pharmacist.
Labels: diabetes blood sugar level, diabetic blood sugar level, managing blood sugar level
