Most people living with diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels regularly. The results assist you and your doctor to manage those levels. This helps you in avoiding developing diabetes complications. There are several ways to test the glucose levels:
You prick your finger with a small lancet and put a drop of blood on a test strip. You then place the strip on a meter that shows your blood sugar level. In less than 15 seconds you will have your results, and you can store it for future use. Some meters can show your average glucose level over a period and show you graphs and charts of your past test results. Learn more about blood glucose monitor, go here.
Meters for other Body Parts
There are newer meters that let you test sites other than your fingertip. You can test from your upper arm, the base of the thumb, forearm, and thigh. You may get different results from those you get from your fingertip. Blood sugar levels in the fingertips show changes quickly than those in other testing areas. This is true especially when your blood sugar level is rapidly changing like after an exercise or meal. If you have symptoms of hypoglycemia, check your sugar level from the fingertip if possible for more accurate results. Find out for further details on blood sugar monitor right here.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring System
These devices also called interstitial glucose measuring devices are combined with insulin pumps. They are similar to the finger-stick glucose results and can display patterns and trends in your results over time.
Blood glucose testing is suitable for people living with diabetes. All individuals who take insulin should repeatedly test their glucose levels, and people on particular prescriptions like sulfonylureas need to test their glucose levels to identify any periods when the blood glucose levels are low.
One may require checking their blood sugar levels several times a day, mostly after meals or exercise, at bedtime, before driving and any instances you think your blood sugar levels are low. However, everyone is different and hence the need to consult with your doctor on when to check your blood sugar level. If you are sick, you will probably need to test your blood glucose levels more often. There are some certain conditions that are likely to affect your blood sugar levels. Conditions like if you have gout or are anemic, or if it’s hot or humid or you are at a high attitude. Take a look at this link  for more information.