Diabetes is a disease that has achieved an extensive status and become a chronic problem in India. So much so that recently India has been given the title of “World Diabetes Capital” by a reputed daily. Under such circumstances, it is high time that we leave no stones unturned to spread more awareness so that the raging figure can be controlled.

One of the crucial aspects of controlling diabetes is to keep a regular check on it and monitor it which cannot be possible without a proper glucometer and the apt test strips. Ever since, the 1980s when monitoring of the glucose level from home was made possible the first time by the invention of the glucose test strips, it has become an imperative tool for every diabetic.

Why a Diabetic Must Use Glucometer and Test Strips?

If uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to a number of serious consequences like limb amputation, stroke, heart attack, and blindness. So it is a must that you monitor your blood glucose level so that you don’t have to pay for a slight ignorance that will make you repent for life.

That is why, by going for regular blood glucose testing, you can rest assured that you are doing your bit for a healthier life. This will help you to stay calm and take out the stress that is usually associated with diabetes treatment.

You can also take proper actions at proper time that will help you to control it without any speculation about what may happen next, if you do this regularly.

Things to Keep in Mind While Performing a Blood Test

Due to the differences in the design of the various brands of blood glucose test strips, each may it is best if you follow the instruction provided by the brand that you use. Here are some general guidelines for properly testing and practice of blood sugar for the new diabetics that you should keep in mind.

• Before performing a test you should wash your hands properly and dry your hands.

• You should never share your finger lancing or blood glucose monitoring equipment with anyone as diseases like Hepatitis B can be transmitted through it.

• You should prepare the test tools like the glucometer and also check if the battery is functioning properly prior to the test.

• Try to go for a new lancet every time. This is because an old lancet may not be as sharp as the new one. As a result of that, it may result in injuring the skin and causing more pain. In case, you use an old one, you must ensure that you have properly disinfected the lancet prior to the usage.

• You should shake your hand below the level of waist, massage your finger tip for enhancing the level of blood circulation or even squeeze the tip of your finger if you face difficulty in deriving enough blood at the tip of the fingers.

• Prior to disposing the lancet, you should place the lancets in a sharps container that is puncture-resistant instead of your trash of regular use.

How Frequently Do You Need to Administer a Test?

How frequently you should take a blood glucose test depends on what type of diabetes you are suffering from and the type of treatment that you are undergoing like whether you are taking oral medications including lifestyle changes or insulin injections are a must for you.

• Type 1 Diabetes – For managing the blood glucose levels, most of the patients require frequent testing. Under usual circumstances, minimum four tests are absolutely imperative. If you require three or more insulin injections each day, if you are currently on insulin pump or if you are pregnant, you may need to test seven or eight times per day or even more than that.

• Type 2 Diabetes –Monitoring your blood glucose level is of crucial significance even though your condition is less critical than that of the patients of Type 1 diabetes. Your doctor will tell how frequently you are required to administer the test depending on your medical dosage, your diet as well as your glycated haemoglobin level.

The above are some of the most vital information that will tell you why monitoring and keeping a check on your level of blood sugar is of utmost significance for any diabetic. Just ensure that you follow the instructions of your physician religiously and use quality equipment like one touch select test strips for testing your glucose level. Discipline and dedication are the two most crucial things for any diabetic and by following that you can ensure a healthy life for yourself and thus, maintain the happiness of your family members.