Table of Contents
If you have diabetes chances are you’ll need a blood glucose meter to check the sugar (glucose) levels, in your blood. Your blood glucose level can be influenced by factors like exercise, food, medications, stress and more. Monitoring your blood glucose level with a meter can assist you in managing your diabetes by keeping track of any changes.
There are kinds of blood glucose meters ranging from simple models to advanced ones with multiple features. The prices of these meters and test strips vary, as insurance coverage. It’s important to research your options before making a purchase decision.
Choosing the right Glucometer
When choosing a blood glucose meter it’s useful to understand the functioning of these devices. Typically you insert a test strip into the meter. Then prick a fingertip with a special needle to obtain a drop of blood. Touch the test strip, with the blood drop. Wait for the glucose reading to appear on the screen.
When handled correctly and stored properly blood glucose meters generally provide measurements of glucose levels. They differ in terms of features offered and types
There are types of monitors for you to choose from.
Blood sugar monitors vary in cost, user friendliness, size, portability and testing duration. It is important to use the test strips, for each monitor to ensure readings. Always consult your user manual for guidance. When used correctly most blood sugar monitors provide results within seconds.
What does blood sugar (glucose) monitoring entail?
Monitoring your blood sugar levels offers insight into how you’re managing your diabetes. It also indicates the effectiveness of your diet exercise medication regimen in controlling your condition. Maintaining blood sugar levels can help reduce or prevent complications associated with diabetes.
What are the ideal ranges for blood sugar levels?
Blood sugar levels exceeding 180 mg/dL (mg/dL = milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood) or dropping below 70 mg/dL are considered unhealthy. Elevated levels (above 180 mg/dL) may indicate insulin production due to factors like overeating or lack of activity. Conversely low levels (below 70 mg/dL) could result from insulin intake missed meals, excessive exercise, alcohol consumption, among reasons.
Blood sugar levels are often measured in milligrams, per deciliter (mg/dL). When the level is around 180 mg/dL its considered high and unhealthy. On the hand a range of 80 to 130 mg/dL is generally seen as good for individuals. If the level drops below 70 mg/dL, its deemed low and unhealthy.
| > 180 mg/dL | Too high; considered unhealthy |
| 80 – 130 mg/dL | Good range for most people |
| < 70 mg/dL | Too low; considered unhealthy |
According to guidance from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) a healthy before meal plasma glucose level should fall between 80 mg/dL and 130 mg/dL. For after meal plasma glucose the ADA recommends keeping it below 180 mg/dL.
Some most common symptoms to detect high and low blood sugar:
Blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia can manifest through symptoms that may differ from person to person or even be absent altogether. Some common symptoms include weight loss, nausea, excessive thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, extreme fatigue, blurry vision and fainting.
Conversely low blood sugar or hypoglycemia can present with symptoms such, as hunger pangs, fatigue, trembling hands, headaches, mental confusion, dizziness spells,
sudden mood swings or behavior changes, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat and paleness of skin tone.
At times an individual may experience a loss of consciousness due, to blood sugar without showing any warning signs beforehand. This condition, known as hypoglycemia unawareness can cause the person to be unaware of their dropping blood sugar levels.
Our Top Picks
Please note that product descriptions on our website are sourced from Amazon to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness. We also used affiliate links for these products from which we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links.
