Blood glucose monitoring devices are devices that help you measure your blood sugar levels at home or on the go. They can help you manage your diabetes and prevent complications by alerting you to high or low blood sugar levels. There are different types of blood glucose monitoring devices, such as:
Traditional blood glucose meters: These are devices that measure your blood sugar levels from a small drop of blood obtained by pricking your finger with a lancet. You place the blood drop on a test strip that is inserted into the meter, and the meter displays the result on a screen within seconds. You may need to calibrate the meter and the test strips with a control solution before using them.
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs): These are devices that measure your blood sugar levels every few minutes from a small sensor inserted under your skin. The sensor sends the data wirelessly to a receiver or a compatible smartphone app, where you can see your current level, trends, and alerts. You may also need to calibrate the sensor with a fingerstick test at least once or twice a day.
Flash glucose monitors (FGMs): These are devices that measure your blood sugar levels every minute from a small sensor inserted under your skin. They do not send the data automatically, but you can scan the sensor with a reader or a compatible smartphone app to see your current level, trends, and alerts. You do not need to calibrate the sensor with a fingerstick test.
To use a blood glucose monitoring device, you need to follow the instructions that come with the device and its accessories, such as test strips, lancets, sensors, and control solutions. You also need to keep track of your results and share them with your doctor or diabetes educator. You may also need to adjust your medication, diet, or exercise based on your results and your doctor’s advice.
Blood glucose monitoring devices can help you improve your diabetes management and lower your risk of complications. However, they are not a substitute for regular visits to your doctor or diabetes educator. You should always consult them before making any changes to your treatment plan.
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