Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health conditions in Nigeria. According to health experts millions of Nigerians are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes without even knowing it. Regular blood sugar monitoring is one of the most important things a diabetic person can do to manage their condition and protect their long term health. In this post we are going to give you a complete guide to monitoring your blood sugar at home using a blood glucose monitor.
What is Blood Sugar?
Blood sugar also called blood glucose is the amount of glucose or sugar in your bloodstream at any given time. Glucose comes from the food you eat especially carbohydrates and is the primary source of energy for your body. Insulin which is a hormone produced by your pancreas helps your cells absorb glucose from your blood. In people with diabetes the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively which causes blood sugar levels to rise dangerously high.
Why Monitoring Blood Sugar at Home is Important
For people with diabetes or pre-diabetes monitoring blood sugar at home is essential because it shows you how your blood sugar responds to different foods, medications, exercise, and stress. It helps you and your doctor make better decisions about your treatment and lifestyle. It allows you to catch dangerously high or low blood sugar levels early and take action before they become a medical emergency. It gives you a sense of control over your condition and motivates you to make healthier choices.
What is a Normal Blood Sugar Level?
A fasting blood sugar level which is measured after at least 8 hours without eating of below 100 mg/dL is considered normal. A fasting reading between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicates pre-diabetes. A fasting reading of 126 mg/dL or above on two separate tests indicates diabetes. Two hours after eating a normal blood sugar level is below 140 mg/dL.
How to Use a Blood Glucose Monitor at Home
Step 1 — Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and dry them completely before testing. This prevents contamination and ensures an accurate reading.
Step 2 — Insert a test strip into your blood glucose monitor. Make sure the strips are not expired as expired strips can give inaccurate readings.
Step 3 — Use the lancet device to prick the side of your fingertip. The side of the fingertip is less sensitive than the pad and produces a better blood drop.
Step 4 — Squeeze your finger gently to produce a small drop of blood. Do not squeeze too hard as this can dilute the blood sample with tissue fluid and affect the result.
Step 5 — Touch the blood drop to the test strip and allow the monitor to absorb it. Do not smear or spread the blood — just touch the strip to the drop.
Step 6 — Wait for your result which should appear on the screen within a few seconds. Record your reading in a logbook along with the date, time, and what you ate before the test.
Step 7 — Dispose of the used lancet and test strip safely.
When to Test Your Blood Sugar
If you have diabetes your doctor will advise you on how often to test. In general, it is recommended to test first thing in the morning before eating, before and after meals, before and after exercise, before bed, and whenever you feel symptoms of high or low blood sugar.
Signs of High Blood Sugar
Frequent urination, excessive thirst, blurred vision, headaches, fatigue, and slow healing wounds are common signs that your blood sugar may be too high. If you experience these symptoms test your blood sugar immediately and contact your doctor.
Signs of Low Blood Sugar
Shakiness, sweating, dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and sudden hunger are signs that your blood sugar may be too low. If you experience these symptoms eat or drink something sweet immediately and test your blood sugar.
The VitalCorex Blood Glucose Monitor
The VitalCorex Blood Glucose Monitor is fast, accurate, and easy to use. It gives you results in seconds, has a clear large display, and is suitable for daily home monitoring. Order yours today from VitalCorex Store and take control of your blood sugar health from the comfort of your home.