BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL– MONITOR YOURSELF

BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL– MONITOR YOURSELF

Blood sugar refers to the level of glucose in the blood. It is transported through the bloodstreams and is the principal energy source for the cells in our bodies. In general, blood sugar level is affected by the following:

1. Stress

2. Activity level

3. Diet

4. Insulin in the body

Blood sugar concentration (also known as serum glucose level) usually varies for different people, but the normal or acceptable range is within 70 to 150 mg/dl. This varies or fluctuates throughout the day, with the lowest sugar level occurring usually in the morning (before the first meal) and rising after every meal.

The level of blood sugar in a person should be highly regulated. Failure to do so could lead to diseases, the most common of which is diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that is caused by either lack of or too much insulin in the body (insulin is a hormone that controls the glucose level in the blood). Other health problems that are related to diabetes, which are also considered fatal include the following:

Hypoglycemia – characterized by a very low drop in the blood sugar level. A person suffering from hypoglycemia may experience the following symptoms:

1. Sweating

2. Hunger

3. Anxiety

4. Exhaustion and weakness

5. Impaired mental functioning

6. Irritability

7. Loss of consciousness

Hyperglycemia – characterized by a very high level of blood sugar. Common symptoms include the following:

1. Frequent urination

2. Thirst

3. Blurred vision

4. Skin infections (such as boils)

5. Possible damage to the eyes, feet, kidneys, and nerves

Because of the potentially serious conditions that may arise from a drop or a rise in the blood sugar level, it is important to track and monitor them.

Monitoring the blood sugar level in the body can be done even without the aid of a medical expert – you just obtain a drop of your blood and then test the sample to find out how much sugar is in it. It is an easy process that can be performed even at the comfort of your home; all you need is the following items:

1. Lancets or any sterile finger-sticking device

2. Alcohol pads

3. Chemically treated test strips

4. Glucose meter

5. A logbook

6. Now you are ready to measure your blood sugar level. Just follow the following steps

7. Use the alcohol pad to clean the finger (or any area) that you are going to prick.

8. Get a drop of your blood by pricking yourself with a sterile lancet (or any similar device).

9. Place the sample (the drop of blood) on the test strip.

10. Insert the test strip into the glucose meter (follow the instructions that are found on the equipment).

11. The meter will then read the test strip and give you a numerical result that corresponds to your blood sugar level.

Write down the results in a logbook for record keeping and for future references.

Note that the frequency for blood sugar testing may vary with each person, because ‘when’ to test depends on numerous factors. It is recommended that you consult a doctor to determine how often and at what time you need to monitor your blood sugar level.

Monitoring your blood sugar level enables you to prevent further complications by allowing you to adjust and manage your lifestyle – your diet, your activity level, and your medication programs (if applicable).

Note, however, this is just an information – still important that you see a doctor.