Managing type 2 diabetes is an ongoing process. However, with necessary lifestyle changes and constant monitoring of blood sugar levels, it's possible to push this disease into remission.
By consistently tracking your blood sugar levels, you'll understand what affects your numbers, either causing them to rise or fall. This could be anything in your daily routine – be it your diet, physical activities, or medications.
This information empowers you to manage your type 2 diabetes effectively, which in turn helps to minimize the risk of other health complications. It also encourages you to take an active role in your personal diabetes care.
Self-monitoring equips you with a comprehensive blood glucose profile, which is valuable for your healthcare providers to plan your personalized treatment.
Steps for Blood Sugar Monitoring
Blood sugar monitoring involves the use of a blood sugar meter and pricking your finger with a lancet device to obtain a blood sample. Here's the general guideline:
- Make sure your hands are thoroughly clean and dry
- Prepare your glucose meter and ensure it's clean as well
- Take out a test strip, ensuring the container is tightly shut to prevent moisture exposure
- Lightly massage your hand to enhance blood flow to your fingers
- Prick your finger with a lancet, squeeze from the base of the finger, and get a small amount of blood onto the test strip
- Insert the test strip into the meter and wait a few seconds for the reading
- Record your results and note any factors that could have influenced the number, such as recent meals or activities
Always keep your meter clean after use and never share it. Store your test strips in their container at room temperature, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and frigid temperatures.
Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
CGM is an alternative tool that eliminates the need for frequent finger pricks. This device is attached to your skin and measures glucose levels throughout the day. It only requires fingerstick blood glucose readings for calibration.
The sensor is placed on your abdomen or arm, secured with an applicator and adhesive tape. You need to replace the sensor regularly, typically every one to two weeks.
A transmitter sends the results to your smartphone or wearable device, and you can set alarms. Some transmitters are reusable, while others come with a disposable sensor. You can also download your CGM data to a computer at any time.
Monitoring Frequency
For individuals with type 2 diabetes, it's sufficient to check your blood sugar once or twice daily, depending on your insulin type and dosage. Once your blood sugar level is controlled, a few checks per week will suffice.
Blood glucose tests can be done upon waking, before or after meals, or before sleep. Your healthcare provider can guide you on how often you should record your results.
Conclusion
Blood sugar self-monitoring is a critical part of managing your type 2 diabetes. It gives you a clearer picture of how diabetes affects your body over time.
Self-monitoring offers valuable information for personalized care, guiding you on necessary lifestyle changes. It helps you identify when your sugar levels fluctuate, enabling you to take appropriate steps to maintain them within the target range. Remember, your doctor is always there to assist you!
