There are a number of different tests diabetics ought to have on a routine basis. The most important is a hemoglobin A1C (hgA1C), which is performed every 6 months or so, usually depending on the preference of the doctor treating the diabetes. Traditionally, the hgA1C has been a test that requires visiting a lab and having blood drawn. To save some hassle and cost, however, there are now kits available to test your hgA1C from home. Rather than drawing a test tube of blood from a vein, you simply prick your finger and send the blood to a laboratory to be tested. Kits run around $30 apiece and are available at drugstores and online.
Simple measures of blood glucose obtained via finger stick can be obtained at home on a daily basis or several times a day, if necessary. Blood glucose is measured with a small device called a glucometer that requires a tiny drop of blood to assess blood sugar levels in a matter of seconds.
Advances in glucometer technology have made it faster, easier and less painful than ever before for diabetics to check their blood sugar at home. The type of glucometer you use is a personal choice with several variables. Some glucometers are quite small and may be difficult to use for those who do not see very well or who have trouble with tiny buttons. Other glucometers come with small strips that must be manipulated into place and inserted into tiny slots. If you find this difficult, you may want to consider a glucometer that comes with a cylinder of preloaded strips, or a wheel that fits into the glucometer and can be used multiple times before needing to be replaced.
What to Look for
Selecting the best glucometer ultimately comes down to selecting the glucometer you are most comfortable with and will actually use on a regular basis. It is imperative that a diabetic requiring daily testing have a glucometer that is easy to use, easy to read and easy to maintain. Before you purchase it, make sure the strips or disk are easy enough for you to handle, the buttons on the machine are manageable, it is simple enough for you to change the batteries or the coding chip and the display is visible to you.
Common Pitfalls
It may be tempting to buy the newest, fastest, smallest glucometer that requires the least amount of blood and also happens to be the most expensive on the market. If you can operate this glucometer easily and are certain you will use it every day, it is a sound choice. Otherwise, remember that accuracy, reliability, ease of use and consistency of use are far more important than how fast results come back.
