How to Monitor Your Blood Sugar At Home

Here’s how monitoring your blood sugar levels at home can keep you protected.

In India, over 80 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and the country accounts for about 17% of the total number of diabetes patients in the world. What makes this even more concerning is that the number is rising, especially in the younger age group. Type 2 diabetes is on the rise, and since it can be controlled by lifestyle changes, it is imperative that action be taken to control the number of cases.  

While controlling diabetes involves a multifaceted approach, including nutrition, exercise, medication, etc., checking blood sugar at home is an essential part. If you have risk factors, like an immediate family member who has been diagnosed with diabetes, a blood sugar monitor can help you understand how food, physical activity, and medications affect your blood sugar levels. With the help of a blood glucose meter, you can make necessary adjustments to your diabetes management plan. 

Why should you check your blood sugar at home?

Regular blood sugar monitoring is crucial for people with diabetes. It helps you:

1. Keep track of your blood sugar levels throughout the day
2. Understand how food, physical activity, and medications affect your blood sugar levels
3. Detect and treat high or low blood sugar levels before they become a problem
4. Make necessary adjustments to your diabetes management plan
5. Improve your overall diabetes management and reduce the risk of long-term complications

When should one check blood sugar?

The frequency of blood sugar testing varies depending on the type of diabetes, the type of medication, and other factors. In general, people with type 1 diabetes and those with type 2 diabetes who are on insulin should check their blood sugar levels at least four times a day, including before meals and at bedtime. People with type 2 diabetes who manage their condition with medication and/or lifestyle changes may need to check their blood sugar less frequently.

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how often to check your blood sugar and at what times of day. It is essential to follow their instructions and keep a record of your blood sugar levels.

While it is best to ask your healthcare provider to demonstrate how to properly use a glucometer, here are the basic steps to check your blood sugar at home:

1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water, and dry them thoroughly
2. Insert a test strip into your blood glucose meter
3. Use the lancet device to prick the side of your fingertip. (You can adjust the depth of the lancet to make the prick less painful.)
4. Gently squeeze your finger to obtain a small drop of blood
5. Place a small amount of blood on the test strip; the meter will display your blood sugar level
6. Record your blood sugar level in a notebook or on your phone app.
7. Dispose of the used lancet and test strip properly

The recording will vary as per your last meal, activity, etc. So, it is important to also follow your healthcare provider’s advice as to when you should take the recording. Be sure to note down what you ate, or if you didn’t eat, before taking the test. 

If your blood sugar levels are consistently above or below the targets set, talk to your healthcare provider about revising your treatment plan. You may need to adjust your diet, exercise routine, or medication.

Along with noting down your blood sugar readings, in the same space take notes on what you ate, the amount you exercised, and if you’re experiencing any abnormal symptoms. This information can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.

By following the above steps and working with your doctor, you can stay on top of your blood sugar levels and prevent long-term complications of diabetes.

At Seva At Home, we produce a wealth of free health information to help individuals and families live healthier, happier lives. This has been produced by independent research carried out by the Seva At Home team. This information is not a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your physician for relevant medical diagnosis and advice.

To learn more about our healthcare services in India, contact our caregiving team today at +1 (603) 718-4828 if you are based in North America, or at 1800-120-800-003 if you are based in India.