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2012年9月2日 星期日

A Glucose Meter - Living With Diabetes


A blood glucose meter is important for all patients with diabetes because this will help them keep tabs on their blood sugar levels as often as recommended by their health care provider. A patient may also exercise his or her own discretion in scheduling use of a blood glucose meter. For instance, even if you are not yet scheduled to do your regular testing with the blood glucose tester but you feel off and suspect that your blood sugar levels are fluctuating, you may clarify with the use of the blood glucose monitor.

It is important to understand that a glucose monitor is a pretty complicated piece of machinery in the sense that you need to be very meticulous about many things about it. For one thing, you will need to take extra care in storing and keeping the blood glucose tester and the accompanying test strips. Heat and humidity can affect the performance of your blood glucose monitor and may very well ruin your test strips. When this happens, you will no longer have accurate readings from your blood glucose meter.

You will also have to take special care in understanding and practicing the correct procedures surrounding testing with a glucose meter. For instance you will need to know whether your blood sugar tester accepts blood samples from alternative sites aside from your fingertip. Some glucose monitors will readily be able to read results accurately from alternative testing sites such areas from the thigh, upper arm and the like. However, not all blood glucose meters will be able to the same. Besides, the general accuracy of testing from blood samples from other than your fingertip can really produce results that are askew.

Taking blood as samples from alternative sites other than from your fingertip will show varying degrees of results especially if you have just eaten or taken an insulin shot. The best place to draw samples from to use on your blood sugar meter is still the tip of your finger. If your fingertip has become sore from previous testing, vary the finger that you use to prevent the same soreness on other fingers.

Remember that the fingertip that you will be taking blood samples from must be completely clean. Even a minute trace of food or sugar can throw the test results completely off mark and this could mean trouble. Make sure that you thoroughly clean your finger and hands before doing a self test with your glucose meter.

If you suffer from diabetes and do not have a glucose monitor, go ahead and get yourself one. Having a blood glucose tester if you have diabetes is essential to proper diabetes care. This is a special tool that can help you cope and live with diabetes so it is important that you have one.

If you are having difficulty in deciding on what brand or type of glucose meter to use, consult your health care profession on what are the possible types that you can use easily and readily.




Final Tip: Remember that there are 2 types of diabetes and the treatment are not always the same, by researching and comparing the best cures for diabetes, you will get the treatment that is right for you. Fortunately, it has been reported the effectiveness of some prescribed medication. Also, there are natural remedies and treatments that are very safe and work to treat your illness without flaw.

Renata Nyleve runs the Best Diabetic Health Supplement website - where you can see her best rated diabetic health supplement. Optimum Diabetics was formulated to provide nutritional support for people with diabetes. Each supplement includes a complete, full-potency formulation of vitamins, minerals and standardized herbal extracts. Visit for further information.





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年9月1日 星期六

Got Diabetes and Wondering How Your Blood Glucose Monitor Actually Works?


Are you one of the increasing number of people with diabetes who needs to monitor their blood sugar levels at home. If so, it is important to know how the tests work and what can effect the results giving inaccurate readings.

Diabetes Mellitus is a widespread disease that is caused by high blood glucose. However, it is not extremely difficult to cure and there have been cases of patients recovering from diabetes and continuing a normal life. There are many ways to control and monitor diabetes. For a long time, urine has been used as a way to check the amount of glucose in the body. However, it is no longer considered reliable. In its place, now blood is used. A machine that is now very commonly used to evaluate abnormal and normal blood glucose level is the Blood Glucose Monitor.

A blood glucose monitor or glucose meter is a small portable battery-powered electronic device that now comes in several models. The glucose meter is used to determine the deviations from the normal blood glucose level. The glucose test and the glucose reading are used to diagnose diabetes. These machines provide glucose readings from 0 to 600 mg/dl. Newer models now allow people to use blood from places other than the fingertip, which is the most common place from which it is extracted. Some models have large digital display and even spoken instructions for people with visual problems. Some models require smaller drops of blood than others. One must be careful while choosing a model, as it is an expenditure that has to be thought over. It is advisable to discuss with other users before buying one as all models have their pluses and minuses.

A blood glucose meter is an instrument that can be used even at home. This Blood glucose meter is used for taking a glucose test and it is a must have for those undergoing diabetes treatment. There is usually a special coated strip on which a drop of blood is placed. The blood is usually taken from the fingertip using a lancing device, which shoots a small, lancet into the skin. However, it is not necessary for it to be taken from the fingertip and sometimes blood is taken from other places like the forearm, thigh, calf or upper arm as the fingertip often gets calloused and sore. The blood is placed on the opposite side of the strip though this depends on the blood glucose meter. Then this strip is inserted into the blood glucose meter.

The blood reacts with chemicals on the strip and the blood glucose meter receives an electronic pulse. The machine then calculates the amount of glucose in the blood and displays glucose reading on the digital screen. A record of the readings will go a long way in helping the physician decide on the kind of diabetes treatment that needs to be given to the patient.

There is also another way of detecting the abnormal or normal blood glucose level in the body. Here, the drop of blood is placed on a special strip that changes color, depending on the amount of glucose. There is a color-coded index that comes along with it that will have listed the particular color the strip changes into when it reacts with the blood and judges the amount of glucose in it. There will be different colors for different amount of glucose. However glucose reading is not very accurate, as it does not give you the exact amount of glucose present.

A blood glucose monitor gives fairly accurate readings if used properly. The glucose meter has to be maintained. It may become old and dirty and if it is kept at high temperature or humidity, the machine's glucose reading may become inaccurate. It must be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth every now and then, to keep it dirt free. The hand from which the blood is taken must be clean and dry. Otherwise, the dirt may interfere with the glucose test results.

This glucose test will help people keep track of the glucose level in their blood and control their normal blood glucose levels and continue their diabetes treatment effectively. They will be help patients to make dietary changes and adjust their consumption of fat and carbohydrates. This will help them maintain normal blood glucose level and undertake any glucose treatment if necessary.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition ==> http://www.meters-blood-glucose.com





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年8月31日 星期五

Diabetes Blood Sugar Levels - Tips on How to Monitor Your Blood Glucose at Home


Is monitoring blood glucose levels at home something you are going to have to do for either yourself or a family member?

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is part of the diabetes treatment that is advocated by physicians all over the world today in addition to the diabetes diet. Most physicians recommend that patients acquire a blood glucose monitor or a glucose meter and learn how to take a glucose test and glucose reading on a daily basis.

However, physicians caution that the accuracy of the glucose reading taken at home depends on the capabilities of the glucose meter and the way the glucose test is taken. So it is very important that the person using the blood glucose monitor reads the manual supplied with the glucose meter and follows the instructions faithfully. The test must be performed using the proper techniques and the meter should be properly calibrated.

Home glucose meters are considered to be accurate if their reading falls within a 20% + or - variance to the Lab analyzed blood sample. This is because the Lab tests are done on the plasma extracts of the blood sample and home glucose tests are done on whole blood samples. However, modern blood glucose monitors take care of the variance and calibrate their glucose reading to match with Lab readings up to 5% level of accuracy.

If the glucose readings are significantly low, look for signs of hypoglycemia or abnormal low level of sugar in the blood. The symptoms include lethargy, confusion, inattention, shakiness or coordination problems. Immediately give the patient something sweet to eat like honey. This is emergency diabetic treatment. Later check on the diabetes diet prescribed by the physician and discuss with him on what has gone wrong in the diabetes treatment.

If none of these problems of hypoglycemia are evident, then the test procedure may need to be checked for accuracy:-


Check if the sample was large enough to cover the strip's test area completely.
Check whether the strip has been handled and stored as instructed.
Some strips are sensitive in the sampling area and should not be touched while handling. The strips should be taken out from the box and the foil only a few seconds before using. If the strips are to be taken in a car, all effort should be made to ensure that they are not exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Check the expiry date on the strip. Use the strip with the prescribed meter only and ensure that the code from the strip container matches the number coded into the machine. You could get incorrect readings for the following reasons:-


The glucose meter is dirty
The meter had been dropped on the floor or from a height and damaged.
The glucose meter is stored in high temperature conditions.
The solutions that come with the blood glucose monitor could have expired.
Despite all precautions and faithful adherence to the instructions contained in the manual, if your meter continues to give you an erroneous reading, call the manufacturer.

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is not very difficult but it must be remembered that glucose meters become less reliable over time and must be checked thoroughly before use. The new models of blood glucose monitors are easier to use and more foolproof. The test strips require only a small drop of blood and are corrected to plasma values. The results are easier to understand and compare with the results from the lab. Built-in memory for storing results and faster test times make these meters very attractive.

Patients using glucose meters to record the glucose reading as part of their daily diabetes management should learn how to maintain the results of the tests and how to record them:-
Glucose test and glucose readings must be set down on paper along with the time and date and details of the dose of medication taken.
Details of food intake, exercise and difficulties with the illness should also be recorded.
Stress should also be recorded whenever applicable.
This method helps the health care professional identify daily patterns and make necessary medication adjustments to the diabetes treatment and diabetes diet.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition.





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年8月30日 星期四

Type 2 Diabetes - The Accuracy Of Your Glucose Meter


Monitoring blood glucose, or blood sugar levels, is at the very heart of great diabetes maintenance, whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The main instrument used to accomplish this is a glucose testing meter. But how accurate are they, and is the error percentage enough to be concerned with?

Since guidelines were first established, the International Organization of Standards (IOS) has put their own regulation in place concerning the effectiveness of these meters. Under their guidelines, these devices can be off as much as 20 percent. That would give you a 40 point difference in the extreme high and low readings that were required on a 100mg readout. For a diabetic, this is far too much of a gap.

Another guideline in place is that they are only required to be accurate 95 percent of the time. That means that 95 percent of the time they can be off as much as 20 percent, and for the remaining 5 percent of the time, it can be an even higher error rate.

Given the seriousness of what your meter can tell you, it is vital you take immaculate care of it. That means keeping it in an ideal location, especially when you are away from home. Insuring that it remains in calibration is also equally important.

But the device isn't the only area that deserves consideration. There are outside factors that can affect the accuracy of a glucose meter. Ambient temperature and the amount of humidity are important... keep your glucose meter in the same cool, dry place as your other supplies. Your glucose meter will work best when stored between 50 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit (10 and 40 degrees Celsius). If you take your meter with you, a locked car often becomes hotter than this.

The size and the quality of blood samples can affect readings. The cleanliness of the meter and/or the strips, and how old the strips are also come into play.

Even the brand of strips themselves, can make a difference. Once you become familiar with a particular brand it is better to remain with that brand as some can be a better quality than others. Going with whichever brand is on sale can compromise accuracy.

For those who would still like additional assistance in accuracy readings, they can use the Clarke Error Grid which analyzes and displays the level of accuracy readings based on how the equipment is being managed. It will help you efficiently take all factors into account.

It is extremely important that you check for accuracy ratings when purchasing a glucose testing meter. It will involve doing substantial research and looking at as many reviews as you can get your hands on. The more experience you can rely on, the better off you will be.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions ... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年6月6日 星期三

Type 2 Diabetes - The Accuracy Of Your Glucose Meter


Monitoring blood glucose, or blood sugar levels, is at the very heart of great diabetes maintenance, whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The main instrument used to accomplish this is a glucose testing meter. But how accurate are they, and is the error percentage enough to be concerned with?

Since guidelines were first established, the International Organization of Standards (IOS) has put their own regulation in place concerning the effectiveness of these meters. Under their guidelines, these devices can be off as much as 20 percent. That would give you a 40 point difference in the extreme high and low readings that were required on a 100mg readout. For a diabetic, this is far too much of a gap.

Another guideline in place is that they are only required to be accurate 95 percent of the time. That means that 95 percent of the time they can be off as much as 20 percent, and for the remaining 5 percent of the time, it can be an even higher error rate.

Given the seriousness of what your meter can tell you, it is vital you take immaculate care of it. That means keeping it in an ideal location, especially when you are away from home. Insuring that it remains in calibration is also equally important.

But the device isn't the only area that deserves consideration. There are outside factors that can affect the accuracy of a glucose meter. Ambient temperature and the amount of humidity are important... keep your glucose meter in the same cool, dry place as your other supplies. Your glucose meter will work best when stored between 50 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit (10 and 40 degrees Celsius). If you take your meter with you, a locked car often becomes hotter than this.

The size and the quality of blood samples can affect readings. The cleanliness of the meter and/or the strips, and how old the strips are also come into play.

Even the brand of strips themselves, can make a difference. Once you become familiar with a particular brand it is better to remain with that brand as some can be a better quality than others. Going with whichever brand is on sale can compromise accuracy.

For those who would still like additional assistance in accuracy readings, they can use the Clarke Error Grid which analyzes and displays the level of accuracy readings based on how the equipment is being managed. It will help you efficiently take all factors into account.

It is extremely important that you check for accuracy ratings when purchasing a glucose testing meter. It will involve doing substantial research and looking at as many reviews as you can get your hands on. The more experience you can rely on, the better off you will be.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions ... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年6月4日 星期一

Diabetes Blood Sugar Levels - Tips on How to Monitor Your Blood Glucose at Home


Is monitoring blood glucose levels at home something you are going to have to do for either yourself or a family member?

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is part of the diabetes treatment that is advocated by physicians all over the world today in addition to the diabetes diet. Most physicians recommend that patients acquire a blood glucose monitor or a glucose meter and learn how to take a glucose test and glucose reading on a daily basis.

However, physicians caution that the accuracy of the glucose reading taken at home depends on the capabilities of the glucose meter and the way the glucose test is taken. So it is very important that the person using the blood glucose monitor reads the manual supplied with the glucose meter and follows the instructions faithfully. The test must be performed using the proper techniques and the meter should be properly calibrated.

Home glucose meters are considered to be accurate if their reading falls within a 20% + or - variance to the Lab analyzed blood sample. This is because the Lab tests are done on the plasma extracts of the blood sample and home glucose tests are done on whole blood samples. However, modern blood glucose monitors take care of the variance and calibrate their glucose reading to match with Lab readings up to 5% level of accuracy.

If the glucose readings are significantly low, look for signs of hypoglycemia or abnormal low level of sugar in the blood. The symptoms include lethargy, confusion, inattention, shakiness or coordination problems. Immediately give the patient something sweet to eat like honey. This is emergency diabetic treatment. Later check on the diabetes diet prescribed by the physician and discuss with him on what has gone wrong in the diabetes treatment.

If none of these problems of hypoglycemia are evident, then the test procedure may need to be checked for accuracy:-


Check if the sample was large enough to cover the strip's test area completely.
Check whether the strip has been handled and stored as instructed.
Some strips are sensitive in the sampling area and should not be touched while handling. The strips should be taken out from the box and the foil only a few seconds before using. If the strips are to be taken in a car, all effort should be made to ensure that they are not exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Check the expiry date on the strip. Use the strip with the prescribed meter only and ensure that the code from the strip container matches the number coded into the machine. You could get incorrect readings for the following reasons:-


The glucose meter is dirty
The meter had been dropped on the floor or from a height and damaged.
The glucose meter is stored in high temperature conditions.
The solutions that come with the blood glucose monitor could have expired.
Despite all precautions and faithful adherence to the instructions contained in the manual, if your meter continues to give you an erroneous reading, call the manufacturer.

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is not very difficult but it must be remembered that glucose meters become less reliable over time and must be checked thoroughly before use. The new models of blood glucose monitors are easier to use and more foolproof. The test strips require only a small drop of blood and are corrected to plasma values. The results are easier to understand and compare with the results from the lab. Built-in memory for storing results and faster test times make these meters very attractive.

Patients using glucose meters to record the glucose reading as part of their daily diabetes management should learn how to maintain the results of the tests and how to record them:-
Glucose test and glucose readings must be set down on paper along with the time and date and details of the dose of medication taken.
Details of food intake, exercise and difficulties with the illness should also be recorded.
Stress should also be recorded whenever applicable.
This method helps the health care professional identify daily patterns and make necessary medication adjustments to the diabetes treatment and diabetes diet.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition.





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年5月30日 星期三

Got Diabetes and Wondering How Your Blood Glucose Monitor Actually Works?


Are you one of the increasing number of people with diabetes who needs to monitor their blood sugar levels at home. If so, it is important to know how the tests work and what can effect the results giving inaccurate readings.

Diabetes Mellitus is a widespread disease that is caused by high blood glucose. However, it is not extremely difficult to cure and there have been cases of patients recovering from diabetes and continuing a normal life. There are many ways to control and monitor diabetes. For a long time, urine has been used as a way to check the amount of glucose in the body. However, it is no longer considered reliable. In its place, now blood is used. A machine that is now very commonly used to evaluate abnormal and normal blood glucose level is the Blood Glucose Monitor.

A blood glucose monitor or glucose meter is a small portable battery-powered electronic device that now comes in several models. The glucose meter is used to determine the deviations from the normal blood glucose level. The glucose test and the glucose reading are used to diagnose diabetes. These machines provide glucose readings from 0 to 600 mg/dl. Newer models now allow people to use blood from places other than the fingertip, which is the most common place from which it is extracted. Some models have large digital display and even spoken instructions for people with visual problems. Some models require smaller drops of blood than others. One must be careful while choosing a model, as it is an expenditure that has to be thought over. It is advisable to discuss with other users before buying one as all models have their pluses and minuses.

A blood glucose meter is an instrument that can be used even at home. This Blood glucose meter is used for taking a glucose test and it is a must have for those undergoing diabetes treatment. There is usually a special coated strip on which a drop of blood is placed. The blood is usually taken from the fingertip using a lancing device, which shoots a small, lancet into the skin. However, it is not necessary for it to be taken from the fingertip and sometimes blood is taken from other places like the forearm, thigh, calf or upper arm as the fingertip often gets calloused and sore. The blood is placed on the opposite side of the strip though this depends on the blood glucose meter. Then this strip is inserted into the blood glucose meter.

The blood reacts with chemicals on the strip and the blood glucose meter receives an electronic pulse. The machine then calculates the amount of glucose in the blood and displays glucose reading on the digital screen. A record of the readings will go a long way in helping the physician decide on the kind of diabetes treatment that needs to be given to the patient.

There is also another way of detecting the abnormal or normal blood glucose level in the body. Here, the drop of blood is placed on a special strip that changes color, depending on the amount of glucose. There is a color-coded index that comes along with it that will have listed the particular color the strip changes into when it reacts with the blood and judges the amount of glucose in it. There will be different colors for different amount of glucose. However glucose reading is not very accurate, as it does not give you the exact amount of glucose present.

A blood glucose monitor gives fairly accurate readings if used properly. The glucose meter has to be maintained. It may become old and dirty and if it is kept at high temperature or humidity, the machine's glucose reading may become inaccurate. It must be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth every now and then, to keep it dirt free. The hand from which the blood is taken must be clean and dry. Otherwise, the dirt may interfere with the glucose test results.

This glucose test will help people keep track of the glucose level in their blood and control their normal blood glucose levels and continue their diabetes treatment effectively. They will be help patients to make dietary changes and adjust their consumption of fat and carbohydrates. This will help them maintain normal blood glucose level and undertake any glucose treatment if necessary.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition ==> http://www.meters-blood-glucose.com





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年5月24日 星期四

A Glucose Meter - Living With Diabetes


A blood glucose meter is important for all patients with diabetes because this will help them keep tabs on their blood sugar levels as often as recommended by their health care provider. A patient may also exercise his or her own discretion in scheduling use of a blood glucose meter. For instance, even if you are not yet scheduled to do your regular testing with the blood glucose tester but you feel off and suspect that your blood sugar levels are fluctuating, you may clarify with the use of the blood glucose monitor.

It is important to understand that a glucose monitor is a pretty complicated piece of machinery in the sense that you need to be very meticulous about many things about it. For one thing, you will need to take extra care in storing and keeping the blood glucose tester and the accompanying test strips. Heat and humidity can affect the performance of your blood glucose monitor and may very well ruin your test strips. When this happens, you will no longer have accurate readings from your blood glucose meter.

You will also have to take special care in understanding and practicing the correct procedures surrounding testing with a glucose meter. For instance you will need to know whether your blood sugar tester accepts blood samples from alternative sites aside from your fingertip. Some glucose monitors will readily be able to read results accurately from alternative testing sites such areas from the thigh, upper arm and the like. However, not all blood glucose meters will be able to the same. Besides, the general accuracy of testing from blood samples from other than your fingertip can really produce results that are askew.

Taking blood as samples from alternative sites other than from your fingertip will show varying degrees of results especially if you have just eaten or taken an insulin shot. The best place to draw samples from to use on your blood sugar meter is still the tip of your finger. If your fingertip has become sore from previous testing, vary the finger that you use to prevent the same soreness on other fingers.

Remember that the fingertip that you will be taking blood samples from must be completely clean. Even a minute trace of food or sugar can throw the test results completely off mark and this could mean trouble. Make sure that you thoroughly clean your finger and hands before doing a self test with your glucose meter.

If you suffer from diabetes and do not have a glucose monitor, go ahead and get yourself one. Having a blood glucose tester if you have diabetes is essential to proper diabetes care. This is a special tool that can help you cope and live with diabetes so it is important that you have one.

If you are having difficulty in deciding on what brand or type of glucose meter to use, consult your health care profession on what are the possible types that you can use easily and readily.




Final Tip: Remember that there are 2 types of diabetes and the treatment are not always the same, by researching and comparing the best cures for diabetes, you will get the treatment that is right for you. Fortunately, it has been reported the effectiveness of some prescribed medication. Also, there are natural remedies and treatments that are very safe and work to treat your illness without flaw.

Renata Nyleve runs the Best Diabetic Health Supplement website - where you can see her best rated diabetic health supplement. Optimum Diabetics was formulated to provide nutritional support for people with diabetes. Each supplement includes a complete, full-potency formulation of vitamins, minerals and standardized herbal extracts. Visit for further information.





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年3月14日 星期三

Diabetes Management Tips - Achieving Accurate Blood Glucose Readings


People living with diabetes test their blood glucose anywhere from weekly to three to seven times daily or more. When performed properly, regular and frequent testing is an important diabetes management tool that can help people with diabetes avoid long-term risks and complications. However, even slight environmental variations can skew results and lead to problems including costly retesting and inaccurate adjustments to blood glucose levels.

Marc Wolf, a registered pharmacist with more than 28 years of experience helping patients with diabetes management and founder and CEO of Diabetic Care Services offers supply storage, usage and testing procedure tips to ensure accurate glucose readings for improved diabetes management.

Diabetes Testing Supply Storage

- Avoid storing meters and test strips in areas that experience varied temperatures, including heat, cold, sunlight or moisture. This can cause glucose meters to produce error messages or damage chemical reagents on test strips, which can cause inaccurate readings and disrupted diabetes management.

- Only use test strips within 30 days of the date you first open the vial. Write the expiration date in permanent marker on the outside of the vial to help remember the date.

- Always store strips in their original vial and replace the vial cap immediately after removing the strips to avoid damage to strips, exposure to airborne contaminants and inaccurate readings.

- Never use strips that are stored in cracked or damaged bottles.

Diabetes Testing Supply Usage

- For accurate diabetes management, always use the test strip that is specific to your blood glucose meter to ensure compatibility. Some strips are physically but not chemically compatible with other meters, and will produce inaccurate readings. Follow meter instructions carefully for proper coding. Also, check that your meter batteries are fully charged, as low batteries can skew results.

- Ensure the glucose meter is prepared to receive a blood droplet before drawing the sample.

- Avoid testing for diabetes management near rooms where there may be high levels of humidity-like the bathroom-as this can alter readings.

- Change lancets for every test, to avoid irritation from dull needles.

Blood Glucose Test Site

- While some new meters allow for alternate site testing, the fingertip is the most accurate test site for diabetes management because it registers changes in blood glucose more quickly than the rest of the body. To avoid calluses, soreness and infection, prick the finger on the sides-not the pads-, alternating between different sides and all ten fingers.

- Properly clean testing site with soap and water before drawing a sample. Even the smallest bits of food, sugar and glucose tablet residue can alter a reading. Make sure the site is entirely dry because even water can affect results.

- Try to test at approximately the same time each day, which will make it easier for you to identify patterns or sudden changes in your results.

Blood Glucose Sample

- Dehydration can cause false high glucose readings, so make sure you are properly hydrated before testing.

- Washing hands in warm water before testing can improve circulation and make it easier to obtain a sample. Pointing hands downward below heart level will also increase circulation.

- Gently squeezing and massaging your finger before pricking can increase blood flow, but do not squeeze finger immediately after prick, as this will actually decrease blood flow. Instead wait a moment and then gently milk the finger.

- When applying blood to the prepared test strip, avoid allowing your finger to touch the strip, as it may cause contamination. Make sure to fill the strip entirely; you may receive an error message if you do not.

After Blood Glucose Testing

- Record results to compare levels before and after meals and between days. If you have trouble remembering to record results, use a meter that stores results in its memory to assist with your diabetes management.

- If the test numbers do not coincide with how you are feeling, a personal indicator of where your general numbers should be, then test again. If you are still unsure, use an alternate meter. Do not ignore your intuition just to avoid retesting. It is important to check every detail for successful diabetes management.




The WaveSense Jazz no code meter, available exclusively at http://www.diabeticcareservices.com and http://www.diabeticexpress.com, can hold up to 1,875 readings.





This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年2月5日 星期日

Living With Diabetes and High Glucose Levels


Somebody who is suffering from diabetes must continuously check their glucose levels for a long time. There are some diabetics, who after the diagnosis of this epidemic start checking the blood sugar level without being properly taught how to do it. Here is a refresher course for all the diabetics. All diabetics should check whether they are properly following all the mentioned steps.

Wash the hands properly with soap and warm water. One can also use alcohol wipes to clean the selected finger for sugar testing. Remember to dry the hands properly as the moisture content can vary the glucose reading.


Put a new lancet in the lancing device.
Take out the test strip from the bottle and recap it soon after. If left open, again the humidity and moisture of the air will destroy the test strips.
Take out the glucose meter from its bag and make it ready for use.
Drop your hand below the waist for around 1 minute. This will allow the blood to pool in the finger and will make it comparatively easy to take the sample.
With the help of lancet take the required sample of blood from the side of the tip of the finger. You can also choose some other site for testing blood sugar like palm of the hand or the forearm. You can check the instructions to know which testing area is best for your particular glucometer 
One can use a cotton ball (sterilized) to stop the bleeding from the finger tip or any other testing site.
The next step is to insert the testing strip into the glucose meter and reading the results.
The diabetics must record the reading of blood sugar level into the log book. This reading should be accompanied by date and time of the test.
In the end the diabetics can transfer these readings in the computer with the help of the software that is specifically designed to help the diabetics in their disease management.

There are several factors that affect the blood glucose readings. Some of these include altitude, humidity, gout, high air temperature and anemia. If in spite of following the above instructions still somebody is having the abnormal results he may check the test strips for any damages, or otherwise recalibrate the glucometer. If still there is some doubt one should seek the doctor's advice.

It is recommended by the American Diabetes Association that people suffering from diabetes must take the reading of blood sugar level several times a day. If the diabetics are suffering from any other serious ailment it is better to check the blood sugar level, even more frequently as the levels may be affected by the illness.




If you are suffering from diabetes you must regularly check your blood sugar level. It's important to monitor your Blood Sugar and Living with Diabetes to make sure you lead a happy and healthy life.





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2012年1月26日 星期四

Type 2 Diabetes - Noninvasive Blood Glucose Monitoring


Besides the obvious inconveniences associated with being a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic, such as constantly monitoring what and when you eat... the biggest of them all has to be monitoring your blood sugar levels. The thought of having to consistently pull out your meter in order to take a sample is bad enough, but no one ever enjoys having to prick their skin. The development of noninvasive or no-stick blood glucose monitoring is changing that...

Noninvasive monitoring means that there is no need to stick the skin in order to retrieve a blood sample. This is not only good news from a pain standpoint, but any diabetic will tell you that, over time, constant sticking will lead to scar tissue forming on their fingers. This then makes it much more difficult to get a sample and requires sticking the skin harder and deeper.

While standard glucose meters have their own level of accuracy, they can be quite a challenge to keep up with. There are so many variables that go into whether or not a reading is as accurate as it could be. The slightest factor can have a negative effect on whether or not you receive an accurate reading.

Some of the factors that come into play involve the meter itself. Of course, there are times when you get what you pay for. Factors include:


the age of the meter,
whether or not it is within calibration, and
the age of the test strips themselves will also matter,
the amount and quality of the blood sample,
cleanliness of the meter and the strips, and
even temperature and humidity levels

all make a difference.

Noninvasive devices on the market incorporate their own technology in order to get a sample. So, how can they check your blood without actually drawing blood? Well, it almost sounds like something out of a science fiction movie. A few use a light beam in order to penetrate the skin to retrieve a blood reading. Other companies are implementing research and development to come up with their own unique branding methods to make the job of sampling easier, and less painful.

Currently, there are companies working on models that use everything from infrared radiation, ultrasound waves, and radio waves to secure a sample. Others are using a different form of science such as testing the thickness of fluids in the tissue beneath the skin. All have the common goal of one day being lancet free. Now, that's good news for all diabetics.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





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2012年1月14日 星期六

Glucose Monitors - Managing and Controlling Diabetes


Glucose monitors play very important roles in controlling diabetes. Health professionals are one in underscoring the benefits of blood glucose monitoring for managing diabetes and good health in general. Continuous monitoring helps diabetics avoid serious complications. Before, urine testing was done to check for glucose levels. Today, it is no longer recommended and is no longer reliable. Blood glucose monitors or meters are better at the job. Yet still, urine testing remains a primary tool today in diabetes care as it used in the detection of ketones.

Glucose monitors checks the concentration of glucose in the blood, called glycemia. Blood is tested for glycemia content by these monitors. The skin is pierced by a lancet, normally at the finger tips, to take a small amount of blood as sample. This is then placed on a disposable strip which would later change in color or electrical property depending on the type and result of the test. The visual strip type changes in color as blood reacts with chemicals on the test strip. The resulting change in color varies according to glucose concentration. The electrical device type is measured with an electronic meter. Within a few seconds, the digital meter displays the glucose level. It takes from 5 to 60 seconds to read results, varying from model to model. Alternative sites have been suggested for drawing blood samples but they normally do not compare with the finger tips in reflecting rapidly changing levels of glucose.

Glucose monitors are essential in home blood glucose monitoring (HBGM). Several models have come out in the last thirty years. The first units appeared in the 1970s. They were huge and bulky by today's standards. The first devices used the same visual colorimetric system that is still in use in urine test strips. These would require 30 micro liters (µl) of blood samples, referred to as hanging drop, which are quite large compared to only 0.3 to 10 micro liters for today's units. The sizes of the newer monitors are about the size of the palm of an adult's hand. Some models are even smaller while a few are a little larger. Instead of disposable strips, some models have discs that can be reused.

More and newer monitors now have the capability for data transfer. Readings may be downloaded onto a computer that has corresponding diabetes monitoring software through cables or infrared. Some can even be linked to insulin injection devices and PDAs. All monitors feature clocks and memory to store past results. These functions help a person with diabetes to better manage, keep a record, and watch for patterns and developments.

The accuracy of glucose monitors are at about ±10 to 15%. But more factors should be considered regarding these numbers. Elements that may influence accurate readings include the temperature in the immediate surrounding area, humidity, the person's intake of drugs that will be present in the blood, dirt on the meter, calibration of the monitor or meter, percentage of red blood cells in the blood sample, the strips to be used are either new or already old, and the quality and amount of the blood sample. These factors may compromise an accurate measurement. A good way to check and test for accurateness of the monitors is for the user to check for himself the glucose levels at about the same time that a blood sample has been drawn when visiting a doctor and then make comparisons.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems make use of a small sensor that is inserted under the skin. They measure levels of glucose in tissue fluid. The individual must wear the sensor in the same place for up to a week. Then it should be replaced. The sensor, after measuring glucose levels, transmits this information to a wireless monitor that may be carried around or worn. However, CGM models are not as accurate and reliable as standard units. They are also much more expensive. In exchange for the higher cost is the ability of the individual for a closer and better glucose monitoring and control. CGM devices can take real-time readings at every 5- or even 1-minute intervals. These come with alarm functions that can warn the diabetic of a too low or too high glucose levels. They also have data transfer capabilities for closer tracking and analysis similar to conventional monitors.




Looking for the best products and lowest prices on Glucose Monitors? We compare the best products and show you the lowest prices online at the Heart Rate Monitor Center





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2011年12月22日 星期四

Diabetes Blood Sugar Levels - Tips on How to Monitor Your Blood Glucose at Home


Is monitoring blood glucose levels at home something you are going to have to do for either yourself or a family member?

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is part of the diabetes treatment that is advocated by physicians all over the world today in addition to the diabetes diet. Most physicians recommend that patients acquire a blood glucose monitor or a glucose meter and learn how to take a glucose test and glucose reading on a daily basis.

However, physicians caution that the accuracy of the glucose reading taken at home depends on the capabilities of the glucose meter and the way the glucose test is taken. So it is very important that the person using the blood glucose monitor reads the manual supplied with the glucose meter and follows the instructions faithfully. The test must be performed using the proper techniques and the meter should be properly calibrated.

Home glucose meters are considered to be accurate if their reading falls within a 20% + or - variance to the Lab analyzed blood sample. This is because the Lab tests are done on the plasma extracts of the blood sample and home glucose tests are done on whole blood samples. However, modern blood glucose monitors take care of the variance and calibrate their glucose reading to match with Lab readings up to 5% level of accuracy.

If the glucose readings are significantly low, look for signs of hypoglycemia or abnormal low level of sugar in the blood. The symptoms include lethargy, confusion, inattention, shakiness or coordination problems. Immediately give the patient something sweet to eat like honey. This is emergency diabetic treatment. Later check on the diabetes diet prescribed by the physician and discuss with him on what has gone wrong in the diabetes treatment.

If none of these problems of hypoglycemia are evident, then the test procedure may need to be checked for accuracy:-


Check if the sample was large enough to cover the strip's test area completely.
Check whether the strip has been handled and stored as instructed.
Some strips are sensitive in the sampling area and should not be touched while handling. The strips should be taken out from the box and the foil only a few seconds before using. If the strips are to be taken in a car, all effort should be made to ensure that they are not exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Check the expiry date on the strip. Use the strip with the prescribed meter only and ensure that the code from the strip container matches the number coded into the machine. You could get incorrect readings for the following reasons:-


The glucose meter is dirty
The meter had been dropped on the floor or from a height and damaged.
The glucose meter is stored in high temperature conditions.
The solutions that come with the blood glucose monitor could have expired.
Despite all precautions and faithful adherence to the instructions contained in the manual, if your meter continues to give you an erroneous reading, call the manufacturer.

Monitoring blood glucose levels at home is not very difficult but it must be remembered that glucose meters become less reliable over time and must be checked thoroughly before use. The new models of blood glucose monitors are easier to use and more foolproof. The test strips require only a small drop of blood and are corrected to plasma values. The results are easier to understand and compare with the results from the lab. Built-in memory for storing results and faster test times make these meters very attractive.

Patients using glucose meters to record the glucose reading as part of their daily diabetes management should learn how to maintain the results of the tests and how to record them:-
Glucose test and glucose readings must be set down on paper along with the time and date and details of the dose of medication taken.
Details of food intake, exercise and difficulties with the illness should also be recorded.
Stress should also be recorded whenever applicable.
This method helps the health care professional identify daily patterns and make necessary medication adjustments to the diabetes treatment and diabetes diet.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition.





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2011年12月21日 星期三

Got Diabetes and Wondering How Your Blood Glucose Monitor Actually Works?


Are you one of the increasing number of people with diabetes who needs to monitor their blood sugar levels at home. If so, it is important to know how the tests work and what can effect the results giving inaccurate readings.

Diabetes Mellitus is a widespread disease that is caused by high blood glucose. However, it is not extremely difficult to cure and there have been cases of patients recovering from diabetes and continuing a normal life. There are many ways to control and monitor diabetes. For a long time, urine has been used as a way to check the amount of glucose in the body. However, it is no longer considered reliable. In its place, now blood is used. A machine that is now very commonly used to evaluate abnormal and normal blood glucose level is the Blood Glucose Monitor.

A blood glucose monitor or glucose meter is a small portable battery-powered electronic device that now comes in several models. The glucose meter is used to determine the deviations from the normal blood glucose level. The glucose test and the glucose reading are used to diagnose diabetes. These machines provide glucose readings from 0 to 600 mg/dl. Newer models now allow people to use blood from places other than the fingertip, which is the most common place from which it is extracted. Some models have large digital display and even spoken instructions for people with visual problems. Some models require smaller drops of blood than others. One must be careful while choosing a model, as it is an expenditure that has to be thought over. It is advisable to discuss with other users before buying one as all models have their pluses and minuses.

A blood glucose meter is an instrument that can be used even at home. This Blood glucose meter is used for taking a glucose test and it is a must have for those undergoing diabetes treatment. There is usually a special coated strip on which a drop of blood is placed. The blood is usually taken from the fingertip using a lancing device, which shoots a small, lancet into the skin. However, it is not necessary for it to be taken from the fingertip and sometimes blood is taken from other places like the forearm, thigh, calf or upper arm as the fingertip often gets calloused and sore. The blood is placed on the opposite side of the strip though this depends on the blood glucose meter. Then this strip is inserted into the blood glucose meter.

The blood reacts with chemicals on the strip and the blood glucose meter receives an electronic pulse. The machine then calculates the amount of glucose in the blood and displays glucose reading on the digital screen. A record of the readings will go a long way in helping the physician decide on the kind of diabetes treatment that needs to be given to the patient.

There is also another way of detecting the abnormal or normal blood glucose level in the body. Here, the drop of blood is placed on a special strip that changes color, depending on the amount of glucose. There is a color-coded index that comes along with it that will have listed the particular color the strip changes into when it reacts with the blood and judges the amount of glucose in it. There will be different colors for different amount of glucose. However glucose reading is not very accurate, as it does not give you the exact amount of glucose present.

A blood glucose monitor gives fairly accurate readings if used properly. The glucose meter has to be maintained. It may become old and dirty and if it is kept at high temperature or humidity, the machine's glucose reading may become inaccurate. It must be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth every now and then, to keep it dirt free. The hand from which the blood is taken must be clean and dry. Otherwise, the dirt may interfere with the glucose test results.

This glucose test will help people keep track of the glucose level in their blood and control their normal blood glucose levels and continue their diabetes treatment effectively. They will be help patients to make dietary changes and adjust their consumption of fat and carbohydrates. This will help them maintain normal blood glucose level and undertake any glucose treatment if necessary.




Michael Jennings has a special interest in diabetes and invites you to find out how to manage diabetes naturally through diet [http://www.treat-diabetes-naturally.com]. He also supplies up-to-date information on blood glucose monitors and diabetes to help you in the management of your condition ==> http://www.meters-blood-glucose.com





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2011年11月25日 星期五

Type 2 Diabetes - The Accuracy Of Your Glucose Meter


Monitoring blood glucose, or blood sugar levels, is at the very heart of great diabetes maintenance, whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The main instrument used to accomplish this is a glucose testing meter. But how accurate are they, and is the error percentage enough to be concerned with?

Since guidelines were first established, the International Organization of Standards (IOS) has put their own regulation in place concerning the effectiveness of these meters. Under their guidelines, these devices can be off as much as 20 percent. That would give you a 40 point difference in the extreme high and low readings that were required on a 100mg readout. For a diabetic, this is far too much of a gap.

Another guideline in place is that they are only required to be accurate 95 percent of the time. That means that 95 percent of the time they can be off as much as 20 percent, and for the remaining 5 percent of the time, it can be an even higher error rate.

Given the seriousness of what your meter can tell you, it is vital you take immaculate care of it. That means keeping it in an ideal location, especially when you are away from home. Insuring that it remains in calibration is also equally important.

But the device isn't the only area that deserves consideration. There are outside factors that can affect the accuracy of a glucose meter. Ambient temperature and the amount of humidity are important... keep your glucose meter in the same cool, dry place as your other supplies. Your glucose meter will work best when stored between 50 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit (10 and 40 degrees Celsius). If you take your meter with you, a locked car often becomes hotter than this.

The size and the quality of blood samples can affect readings. The cleanliness of the meter and/or the strips, and how old the strips are also come into play.

Even the brand of strips themselves, can make a difference. Once you become familiar with a particular brand it is better to remain with that brand as some can be a better quality than others. Going with whichever brand is on sale can compromise accuracy.

For those who would still like additional assistance in accuracy readings, they can use the Clarke Error Grid which analyzes and displays the level of accuracy readings based on how the equipment is being managed. It will help you efficiently take all factors into account.

It is extremely important that you check for accuracy ratings when purchasing a glucose testing meter. It will involve doing substantial research and looking at as many reviews as you can get your hands on. The more experience you can rely on, the better off you will be.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions ... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





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2011年11月24日 星期四

A Glucose Meter - Living With Diabetes


A blood glucose meter is important for all patients with diabetes because this will help them keep tabs on their blood sugar levels as often as recommended by their health care provider. A patient may also exercise his or her own discretion in scheduling use of a blood glucose meter. For instance, even if you are not yet scheduled to do your regular testing with the blood glucose tester but you feel off and suspect that your blood sugar levels are fluctuating, you may clarify with the use of the blood glucose monitor.

It is important to understand that a glucose monitor is a pretty complicated piece of machinery in the sense that you need to be very meticulous about many things about it. For one thing, you will need to take extra care in storing and keeping the blood glucose tester and the accompanying test strips. Heat and humidity can affect the performance of your blood glucose monitor and may very well ruin your test strips. When this happens, you will no longer have accurate readings from your blood glucose meter.

You will also have to take special care in understanding and practicing the correct procedures surrounding testing with a glucose meter. For instance you will need to know whether your blood sugar tester accepts blood samples from alternative sites aside from your fingertip. Some glucose monitors will readily be able to read results accurately from alternative testing sites such areas from the thigh, upper arm and the like. However, not all blood glucose meters will be able to the same. Besides, the general accuracy of testing from blood samples from other than your fingertip can really produce results that are askew.

Taking blood as samples from alternative sites other than from your fingertip will show varying degrees of results especially if you have just eaten or taken an insulin shot. The best place to draw samples from to use on your blood sugar meter is still the tip of your finger. If your fingertip has become sore from previous testing, vary the finger that you use to prevent the same soreness on other fingers.

Remember that the fingertip that you will be taking blood samples from must be completely clean. Even a minute trace of food or sugar can throw the test results completely off mark and this could mean trouble. Make sure that you thoroughly clean your finger and hands before doing a self test with your glucose meter.

If you suffer from diabetes and do not have a glucose monitor, go ahead and get yourself one. Having a blood glucose tester if you have diabetes is essential to proper diabetes care. This is a special tool that can help you cope and live with diabetes so it is important that you have one.

If you are having difficulty in deciding on what brand or type of glucose meter to use, consult your health care profession on what are the possible types that you can use easily and readily.




Final Tip: Remember that there are 2 types of diabetes and the treatment are not always the same, by researching and comparing the best cures for diabetes, you will get the treatment that is right for you. Fortunately, it has been reported the effectiveness of some prescribed medication. Also, there are natural remedies and treatments that are very safe and work to treat your illness without flaw.

Renata Nyleve runs the Best Diabetic Health Supplement website - where you can see her best rated diabetic health supplement. Optimum Diabetics was formulated to provide nutritional support for people with diabetes. Each supplement includes a complete, full-potency formulation of vitamins, minerals and standardized herbal extracts. Visit for further information.





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