The Basics In Blood Sugar Testing

One of the basic activities of a diabetic is blood testing

. This is an important aspect of glucose management, as the regular testing would determine current levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Keeping these levels within proper ranges can help reduce the risk of developing complications arising from this condition.

There are many ways that diabetics test glucose levels. The following are the common ways that this simple but effective means of diabetes management can be done:

Traditional Manner. This is the time-honored process of pricking one's finger with a needle to extract a drop of blood. This drop is then placed on a strip and then attached to a glucose meter. This blood glucose meter measures the amount of blood glucose present in the body. There are many kinds of models and types of meters, with many able to store readings for future reference. In order to maintain this, there must be a steady supply of lancets and glucose strips. There is still a risk as to inaccurate readings if the batteries of the meter fail.

Alternative Testing. There are new meters that do not use pricking or fingertips to be able to measure sugar levels. Upper arms, forearms, base of the thumb are some other areas that blood can be extracted for measuring purposes. This alternative testing meter though has a great risk for inaccuracy, as blood sugar levels are more accurate when taken from the fingertips. Blood in this area can register sudden changes in sugar levels, unlike alternative sites.

Glucose Monitoring System. This is a device that requires insertion of a tube into a vein under the skin. The tube collects fluids regularly and measures bloodstream sugar levels constantly. This is a very accurate measure of blood glucose levels at any given time. The major drawback though is the catheter inserted into the vein that may cause both discomfort as well as pain when moved. Thus, the diabetic needs to be prone for most of the time when the glucose monitoring system is hooked up to them.

GlucoWatch. This is a new device that is a watch as a well as a glucose monitoring system. The measurements are done through electric currents from the watch to the skin to collect fluids that can then measure sugar levels. The blood sugar levels are then checked within a given set of hours. The measurement is quite accurate and is one of the first steps towards having a non-invasive and regular monitoring of these important diabetes levels.

Choosing one of the ways to monitor blood glucose is important in proper diabetes management. Depending on the degree of severity of the diabetes in the body and physician's advice, finding the right one can help keep diabetes complications at bay.

by: Bobby Castro

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