Guide For Blood Sugar Monitoring Without Finger Pricks

The most well-known method for monitoring your blood sugar levels is by using a blood glucose monitor with a finger prick. It's not easy can be to test your blood sugar if you are one of those people with diabetes. Lancets are used to puncture the finger, and a tiny amount of blood is gathered on a test strip. The sample is placed in the blood glucose meter, or glucometer, for measurement. This process is repeated four or more times a day.
The process of finger pricking can be not just tedious, but can also be painful. In certain cases this could make it difficult to carry on the procedure. A lower frequency of testing means less awareness of the blood sugar levels. Some diabetics prefer to test blood sugar using their fingers' sides rather than the pads. They can also try different areas or switch the lancets. Still, pricking the skin to draw blood has remained an integral part of the diabetic lifestyle for many years.
The latest advances in diabetes care and technology have created new, non-needle alternatives to measure the levels of blood glucose. FDA has approved several continuous glucose monitoring devices that don't require a finger prick test. Healthcare professionals are increasingly prescribing these more modern blood sugar monitor without finger pricks, devices as an alternative to traditional blood glucose monitors. Not only do they eliminate the painful finger prick, they also provide more blood sugar readings throughout the day. More readings means more informed diabetes management decisions.
What can I do to monitor my blood sugar without finger needles?
The first step to get rid of the finger poke test is to talk with your healthcare provider regarding the possibility of switching to continuous glucose monitor. The glucose meter without blood monitor, which depends on interstitial fluid and not blood, can detect glucose. The sensor is inserted under the skin with a cannula. It's still a perforation of the skin but it's a small, shallow puncture. A CGM needs to be applied and replaced once every 10-14 days or so. It's typically placed on the belly or upper arm that is continuously monitoring blood sugar. Held in place by an adhesive patch it is possible to wear the CGM system when you sleep, showering, or exercising. Although it's often confused with an insulin pump it is CGM is a CGM is designed to monitor and report glucose levels, not to administer insulin.
Your physician will be able to determine the best product for your needs. They will also make sure you are at ease using the device. Be aware that some CGM devices may require calibration. This means testing your CGM results against the results of guess it, a poke test. This will result in less finger pricking, and more time back in your routine.
What is the price of a continuous glucose monitor?
The cost of continuous glucose monitoring differ based the brand you select and what features are included. Certain products can only be used with an individual reader, and others are compatible using a smartphone. You can create various alerts , as well as various other options. Similar to everything else in the technology space, extra bells and whistles will always be available.
Private insurance or Medicare could be able to pay for the costs of an CGM system if you're in a diabetic state and require frequent adjustments to your insulin dose. The insurance plan you have may contain restrictions on the coverage you can avail.
What is the best way to keep track of my blood sugar?
Blood sugar testing is an important instrument to use for type 1 as well as type 2 diabetics. Doctors will recommend testing your blood sugar levels between 4-10 times a day, generally prior to and after meals, snacks, exercise and even more frequently when you're ill. Those with type 2 diabetes who do not have insulin use may not be required to check their blood sugar every day. You may want to talk with your physician if are suffering from calloused or sore fingers. Your monitor for blood glucose will also give clear directions regarding alternative testing locations.
For those who may need blood sugar night or experience low blood sugar while they're asleep or have only a few signs, it's worthwhile to have a conversation with your doctor to see whether CGM is the right choice for you.