Sunday, July 5, 2009

The Whys And Wherefores Of Diabetes Testing Supplies

By Philip Leighton

Diabetes testing supplies are an essential part of a Diabetes sufferer's life. Diabetics require constant monitoring to ensure that their glucose and blood sugar levels are kept within a sustainable range. In the event of diabetes cures the regime of using diabetes testing supplies may subside, but until then they are a necessary commodity. One common product that is widely used by Diabetics is the glucose monitor which aids people in monitoring their blood sugar levels effectively. Many of the packs are designed to be effortless to use and give the person fast results, usually in under one minute. They are compact and weightless, usually functioning by way of a battery. Many monitors allow the user to store results for up to one year.

To use a blood glucose monitor, you will need other diabetes testing supplies such as a lancet. This object is used to prick the surface of the skin to allow you to get a drop of blood for testing, usually from your arm or finger. Most lancets are designed to minimalize skin tearing and you can set the depth at which the needle penetrates your skin. This helps to prevent hitting important nerves. Some Lancet designs mean that the item is already loaded and so you do not need to fumble with needles and it can be easily disposed of once finished.

After you have produced a sample of blood, other diabetes testing supplies come into play, such as the testing strip. These strips are placed into the monitor which reads the glucose results from the sample. It is usually the case that testing strips are supplied with a glucose monitor pack and fresh supplies can be obtained from a pharmacy.

One newer product available in the niche of diabetes testing supplies is the Embrace Meter. This piece of equipment boasts the ability to read blood results in as little as 6 seconds. Results can be viewed on the screen or read aloud in either Spanish or English. The readings are scientifically correct and it can get results from the smallest amount of blood. The Embrace Meter can also store your readings and give blood sugar level results over an average period such as 7, 14 or 30 days.

All Type 1 and some Type 2 Diabetes sufferers will use Insulin. Insulin cannot be given over-the-counter and must be prescribed by a doctor. One you have received the prescription, supplies can be given by a pharmacist. Diabetics who use Insulin will have to test their glucose levels several times a day and administer the amount of Insulin needed in respect of the current blood sugar level.

Diabetes testing supplies that are readily available over the counter include the testing strips, lancets and syringes. Some people who have Diabetes prefer to take their Insulin through an Insulin pump, which is also a non-prescription supply. An Insulin pump is designed to administer set amount of insulin to a person constantly throughout the day. This can usually be calculated by analyzing the user's lifestyle. Most sets include the pump itself, a pump reservoir, a cannula (needle), tubing and a computer chip which constantly measures the dosage.

Another option, especially for those with busy lives, is a glucose gel which is taken orally. This is a hassle free method which helps low blood sugar levels and involves a certain amount of glucose being stored in a sealed tube. The tube is designed to resist splitting and breaking open; it is compact, lightweight and can be kept in any wallet, purse or bag.

If you have Diabetes, diabetes testing supplies will be a part of the rest of your life. Until diabetes cures are found these products allow you to lead a free and eventful life.

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment