1. What's the Point of Monitoring Glucose Levels?
Complications from high blood sugar can be serious and life threatening. Diabetics need to keep blood glucose levels within a certain target range to avoid the complications associated with diabetes. Targets vary depending on whether or not you've eaten, if you have been ill, are experiencing pregnancy and hormone changes, as well as your age, exercise and type of food consumed at your last meal. In general terms, target levels for fasting blood sugar range between 70 to 130; less than 180 an hour or two after a meal; and between 110 to 150 before bed. All diabetics should have their own blood glucose monitor to check blood sugar levels daily. Your doctor will order an A1C blood test, which gives a clear indication of blood glucose readings for the previous month or two.
2. When Is the Best Time to Check Blood Sugar?
Test your blood sugar first thing in the morning, before you eat. This is called a fasting blood sugar and is the most accurate reading to monitor your diabetes. With Type 2 diabetes, blood sugar should be monitored every morning. For insulin dependent diabetics, blood glucose should be monitored according to what your doctor feels is necessary; at the very minimum you should monitor it in the morning and at bedtime.
3. Glucose Monitor and Lancet Tips
Glucose monitors are small computerized monitors that contain an opening where a test strip with a blood drop is inserted. With each bottle of new strips, the machine must be calibrated. Lancets come with the monitor and are usually a pen type of lancet. Wash your hands with soap and thoroughly rinse them, then dry with paper towels. Alcohol swabs can be used but the finger must be thoroughly dry or the reading can be affected. Puncture the tip of a fingertip with the lancet and turn the finger over so you get a hanging drop of blood. Apply only the first drop of blood on the strip to get the most accurate reading.
4. Getting Wild Readings?
If you are getting wild readings from your glucose monitor, don't panic. Repeat the test to see if the reading is still abnormal. Check the batteries in your monitor and look at the expiration date on the bottle of test strips. If the batteries are good, you may need to recalibrate the monitor. Read the trouble-shooting guide for your glucose monitor and call the toll free number, if needed. You may simply need a new glucose monitor; most companies will replace the monitor at little or no charge.
5. Elevated Levels Require Elevated Attention
If you are ill or feel you're having a reaction, always check your blood sugar. Symptoms of low blood sugar and high blood sugar are similar. You should never rely on how you're feeling to determine if blood glucose is either high or low; always check blood glucose levels using the glucose monitor. Notify your doctor if blood sugar remains elevated for longer than a few days.
