High blood sugar is the hallmark of diabetes mellitus, but it can also occur with a variety of other conditions. The definition of "high" depends on your recent activities. For example, it's normal for blood sugar to be higher after a meal than it is in the morning when you wake up. If you're concerned about high blood sugar, a doctor can take an inventory of your general health, family history and physical state, and determine whether tests, such as a hemoglobin A1C test, a fasting blood glucose test, or an oral glucose tolerance test, are warranted. You can also find out if you have high blood sugar on your own by purchasing an over-the-counter blood glucose meter, but be prepared to spend $100 or more.
Make an Appointment with Your Doctor
Step 1
Call your doctor and ask for an appointment to evaluate your blood sugar. Have your calendar, a piece of paper and a pencil handy, in case you need to write something down.
Step 2
Make a list of the names and doses of all medications that you take regularly, including over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements, such as vitamins. If you're seeing a new doctor, also make a list of your current and past medical problems, surgeries and allergies, especially allergies to medications.
Step 3
Arrive to the appointment at least 10 minutes early. Bring your list, as well as your insurance card, a form of identification and a method of payment.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor about your concerns. Be sure to mention any family history of high blood sugar and signs or symptoms of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, cuts or bruises that are slow to heal, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, and recurrent skin, mouth or bladder infections.
Step 5
Follow your doctor's instructions. You may receive a referral for a blood test or a timed blood test where your blood is drawn after you drink a special glucose solution.
Purchase a Blood Glucose Meter
Step 1
Research available meters. The American Diabetes Association website maintains a list of all available blood glucose meters, which is updated annually.
Step 2
Purchase the meter of your choice and supplies from a drugstore, department store or online store. Supplies depend on the meter, but usually include test strips, lancets and disposable alcohol pads.
Step 3
Read the directions.
Step 4
Set up the meter according to the manufacturer's directions. In most cases, this will involve inserting batteries and performing a calibration test.
Test Your Blood Sugar
Step 1
Wash your hands.
Step 2
Insert a test strip into the meter.
Step 3
Apply alcohol pad to finger tip and prick with a lancet. Squeeze or massage, if necessary, until you obtain a drop of blood.
Step 4
Apply blood to test strip. Record your result on a piece of paper or in a pocket-sized notebook, including the time, date and the last time you ate.
Step 5
Repeat according to your own schedule, or as directed by your doctor. Common times to check include when you wake up in the morning, before you go to bed and after a meal.
Tips and Warnings
- Wait until you see your doctor to purchase a blood glucose meter. The meter and supplies are usually covered by insurance for people with diabetes or other problems that require blood glucose monitoring.
- According to the American Diabetes Association, normal blood sugar ranges from 70 to 130 mg/dL before a meal and up to 180 mg/dL after a meal. Blood sugar should drop below 130 mg/dL by two hours after a meal.
Things You'll Need
- Glucose meter
- Test strips
- Lancet
- Alcohol pads
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 23rd Edition;" A.S. Fauci et al.; 2008
- American Diabetes Association: Hyperglycemia
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Basics: Symptoms
- American Diabetes Association: Blood Glucose Meters
- American Diabetes Association: Checking Your Blood Glucose
