Diabetes Management
Why Should Diabetics Regularly Monitor Their Blood Glucose?
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By Apollo 24|7, Published on - 13 March 2023, Updated on - 20 June 2023
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Monitoring blood sugar levels periodically is one of the most essential aspects of managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This practice enables you to identify the food or lifestyle-related triggers that may cause your blood sugar levels to rise or drop significantly. Using this information, your doctor can create the best possible diabetes care plan for you. In most cases, the doctors educate the patients on how often they need to check their glucose levels. This is where diabetic monitors and blood sugar meters come in handy. These monitors allow the patients to record their blood sugar levels at all times. Here are other benefits of using diabetic monitors.
Benefits Of Using A Diabetic Monitor
Following are some of the major benefits of using a diabetic monitor:
1. Monitoring your blood sugar levels help you figure out whether or not you are meeting your glucose targets. This can help avoid long-term diabetes-related complications and keep the unpleasant symptoms of low and high blood sugar at bay. This information helps you determine the best way of managing your diabetes on a day-to-day basis.
2. For diabetics, monitoring their blood sugar levels is vital to determine just how well their existing treatment plan is working and whether or not it needs any modification. The information gathered by using a diabetic monitor can help your doctor formulate the best treatment plan for you. These decisions can prove to be extremely helpful in delaying or preventing diabetes complications like stroke, heart attack, blindness, kidney disease, and even amputation.
3. Diabetes affects every individual in a different way. So, there’s no one right approach for diabetes management for everyone. Monitoring your glucose level will help you gain a better understanding of what works for you and what doesn’t, such as taking your medicine or insulin at different times, exercising and eating different foods.
How To Use A Diabetic Monitor?
There are primarily two ways for diabetics to monitor their blood sugar levels at home. These include:
1. Glucometer and finger stick
The most common and widely used blood sugar monitoring method involves the use of a glucometer and test strips. Also referred to as a finger stick check, this method requires you to prick your finger with a needle (called a lancet) to release a drop of blood. Then, you need to place this blood drop on the test strip, placed in the glucometer, which shows you the blood sugar levels within a few seconds. The limitation of this method is that it only gives you information about your blood sugar at a specific moment. So, diabetics may have to check their blood glucose many times during the day.
2. Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)
This method of blood sugar monitoring requires diabetics to wear a device that keeps a check on their glucose levels at all times. A CGM uses this data to create a graph displaying the complete picture of how your sugar levels vary over time. Most of these devices use a tiny sensor, which is inserted under your skin. This sensor measures your glucose levels 24 hours a day. There are many different brands and types of CGMs, some of which are linked to specific insulin pumps while others work independently. Most of these devices can send alerts or alarms when high or low blood sugar levels are detected.
Explore Continuous Glucose Monitor
You can choose either one or even both methods as per your needs.
Conclusion
The frequency of blood sugar monitoring can vary from person to person. However, every diabetic should keep an eye on their blood sugar levels to prevent any complications. So, all you need to do is to just follow the instructions given by your doctor and maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you need more information,
Consult Apollo's Expert Diabetologists
You can also manage your diabetes like a pro with Apollo 24|7's 12-week empower programme.
Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.
Diabetes Management
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Which Age Group is the Most Susceptible to Diabetes?
The susceptibility to diabetes varies with age. Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence due to an autoimmune response. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to middle and older age, with risks rising significantly after the age of 45. Gestational diabetes can develop in anyone during pregnancy, but the risk increases as one ages. Factors like physical activity, metabolic changes, body composition, and genetics influence age-related susceptibility. Early detection and management are crucial, involving regular check-ups, blood sugar monitoring, a balanced diet, and tailored approaches for older adults with coexisting health conditions. Awareness and proactive health measures are vital for effective diabetes management across age groups.
Diabetes Management
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The first thing to own for any individual diagnosed with diabetes is a blood glucose meter. Besides, a glucometer, test trips and lancets are the most important things required to monitor blood sugar levels. The next important thing is insulin or emergency medication supplies to prevent hypoglycemia. A diabetic should also keep a glucagon emergency kit to manage severe hypoglycaemia. A medical identification bracelet that alerts others of an individual's condition in emergencies is also important. These items are essential for effective diabetes management and safety.
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Can diabetes raise the risks of heart disease? Yes, diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease by affecting the blood vessels and promoting the buildup of plaque. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the lining of blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis. Additionally, diabetes is associated with other risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, further contributing to heart disease risk.