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Even though type 2 diabetes can be controlled or managed through
diet and exercise and doesn’t always require medication or insulin
injections, it is still a serious condition and needs to be treated
as such. One way a person with diabetes can keep on top of her
condition is by blood glucose monitoring. In addition to the
doctor’s regular A1c testing, daily testing can be done at home
using a diabetes monitor, also known as a blood glucose monitor.
There are many types of monitors available; they range form very
basic to the models with every bell and whistle. They all take a
small sample of blood and measure how much glucose is present in the
sample and then display a number for the user to read. Newer models
have memories that store the figures for a set amount of time and
the patient can track her progress. Some of these use software
compatible with the health care provider’s computer and the doctor
can also have a very reliable record of the blood glucose levels.
When shopping for a diabetes monitor, keep in mind your specific
needs. Will you be testing during the night and need one with a
lighted display? Do you need a large display? There are models that
have a voice simulator for the vision impaired, too. Do you want a
record to track your progress over time? Don’t forget that in
addition to the initial cost of the monitor there is the additional
cost of the test strips. If finances are an issue, make sure to
check the price of the test strips your monitor requires.
Some insurance companies cover the cost of your diabetes monitor;
others will pay part of the cost. There are providers that have free
offers of glucose monitors and other diabetic supplies; the usual
requirement is that you have some type of billable insurance. This
could be one way to avoid deductibles.
Whether you use your monitor 3 times a day or just once, it is a
useful tool in your diabetes management. It lets you keep on eye on
how well you are doing with your diet and exercise programs and can
show you what is working and what you can change for the better. You
can test after you eat different foods to see how your blood sugar
levels react and after exercise to see how glucose levels are
affected, making it easier to make smarter choices.
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