Buyer's Guide
The American Diabetes Association recommends testing blood sugar levels once per month. If you've been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it's important to monitor your glucose level so you know whether treatment needs adjusting. Testing your blood sugar levels can help you manage your condition by providing information about your diet and exercise habits. Additionally, regular monitoring enables doctors to determine whether medication adjustments are needed.
An a1c test kit contains strips that measure your blood sugar level. After pricking your finger, you apply a drop of blood onto the strip. Then, you insert the strip into a meter which reads the results. Once you receive your results, you compare them to previous readings. Based on the comparison, you can adjust your lifestyle choices accordingly.
If you haven't tested your blood sugar levels recently, you might benefit from purchasing an a1c test kit. Although the ADA suggests monthly tests, some individuals choose to perform weekly checks. Regardless of your preference, it's always advisable to consult with your doctor before performing any health related activities.
Yes! Before starting, ensure that you follow proper safety precautions. First, wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and antibacterial soap. Next, dry your hands completely. Make sure no part of your body touches anything else except the tip of the needle. Lastly, wear gloves to protect your skin.
No. Taking your medications with you isn't necessary. However, it's wise to bring along a copy of your prescription so you can show it to your healthcare provider during appointments.
Diabetes affects millions of Americans each year. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications. One of the main reasons why so many people develop type 2 diabetes is because they fail to manage their blood sugar levels properly. Unfortunately, many individuals don't know whether or not they have diabetes until it's too late. That's why it's important to purchase a reliable a1c test kit before symptoms begin to appear.
Moreover, another 7 million people are diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes occurs when someone has elevated glucose levels but doesn't yet meet the criteria for full-blown diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Blood sugar levels refer to the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream. Glucose is produced by the body during digestion. After eating food, insulin is released into the bloodstream to transport the glucose into cells where it can be stored for future use. Insulin resistance refers to the inability of the body to produce enough insulin. Over time, the pancreas becomes unable to release sufficient amounts of insulin. Consequently, glucose builds up in the bloodstream causing hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia causes the kidneys to retain excess fluid which leads to increased urination. Eventually, the kidneys become damaged and cannot function normally. This results in dehydration and weight loss.
Testing is essential for early detection of diabetes. According to the CDC, testing is especially critical for people who are overweight or obese. Since obesity increases the likelihood of developing diabetes, regular monitoring is necessary. Additionally, testing is crucial for anyone who experiences unexplained fatigue, frequent headaches, blurred vision, numbness, tingling, or pain in his feet or legs.
Yes, anyone can get type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes is rare among young children, it does occur occasionally. Children between ages 5 and 14 are particularly vulnerable to developing type 1 diabetes. Other factors that increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes include being born prematurely, having older siblings, and living in certain parts of the country.
Type 2 diabetes develops gradually over several years. Obesity is considered the primary cause of type 2 diabetes. Excess fat around the waistline contributes to insulin resistance. Once insulin resistance sets in, the pancreas begins producing insufficient amounts of insulin. As a result, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream leading to hyperglycemia.
The American Diabetes Association recommends testing blood sugar levels once per month. If you've been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it's important to monitor your glucose level so that you can control it effectively. Testing your blood sugar level is called "self-monitoring". Self monitoring involves taking a sample of your own blood by pricking your finger. Then, you insert the results into a special meter which measures the amount of glucose present in your bloodstream.
There are two main categories of meters - portable and non-portable. Portable meters are smaller and lighter than non-portable ones. Both types of meters measure blood sugar levels accurately. However, portable meters are preferred because they're easier to carry around. Non-portable meters are ideal for patients who travel frequently.
Other factors that affect blood sugar levels include stress, diet, exercise, medications, alcohol consumption, illness, pregnancy, and sleep patterns. All of these factors must be taken into consideration when determining whether or not someone has diabetes.
Yes! Although eating certain foods might cause temporary spikes in blood sugars, it doesn't mean that you have diabetes. Eating carbohydrates does raise blood sugar levels temporarily. But, if you eat too many carbs, your body will store excess calories as fat. Over time, this leads to weight gain and obesity.
It depends on the kind of alcohol you consume. Beer contains fewer carbs than wine or liquor. Wine and liquor contain higher amounts of carbs. Hypoglycemia causes symptoms such as dizziness, headache, sweating, nausea, shakiness, confusion, irritability, hunger, anxiety, and fatigue.
No matter how healthy you are, it's always good to know where you stand. Checking your blood sugar level daily gives you insight into your overall health status. Additionally, knowing your blood sugar level enables you to adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Your doctor needs to know about your blood sugar level. He or she can advise you regarding treatment strategies and medication usage. Furthermore, your doctor can recommend changes to your lifestyle habits such as dietary modifications and regular physical activity.
There are several different types of blood glucose testing kits available today. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick overview of each type so you know which one might be right for you.
They're ideal for patients who travel frequently or live far from medical facilities. Because they're inexpensive, they're commonly used by diabetics who only need occasional monitoring.
Patients insert the strip into their skin and wait for it to turn blue. Then, they read the results displayed on the meter. SMBGs are great for patients who must closely monitor their blood sugar levels. Since they're cheap, they're perfect for frequent users.
