When testing blood sugar ranges, folks usually make some oft-repeated errors that may result in inaccurate readings and poor diabetes administration. “It’s essential to hold observe of blood sugar ranges to have the ability to handle them,” stated Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior advisor, inside drugs, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.
Testing on the mistaken time: Testing instantly after consuming can result in excessive readings. It’s greatest to check 2 hours after a meal for correct outcomes. “Testing at irregular instances, equivalent to proper after consuming with out following a constant routine, may also create confusion and inappropriate outcomes,” stated Dr Agarwal.
Pricking the fingertip: The fingertip has extra nerve endings, making it painful. As an alternative, prick the edges of your fingers for much less discomfort.
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Not altering lancets: Reusing lancets may cause ache and an infection. Change lancets recurrently to make sure a clean testing expertise.
Utilizing expired or poorly saved check strips: Expired or poorly saved check strips may give inaccurate readings. At all times test expiration dates and retailer strips correctly. Utilizing an outdated or broken check strip is one other challenge, as expired strips might give mistaken outcomes. Some folks don’t retailer strips correctly, exposing them to warmth and moisture, and inaccurate outcomes, stated Dr Agarwal.
Not washing palms: Failing to scrub palms earlier than testing can result in contaminated readings. Wash your palms with cleaning soap and water earlier than testing, stated Dr Narander Singla, lead advisor, inside drugs, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi.
Wash your palms (Picture: Getty Photographs/Thinkstock)
Utilizing alcohol-based santisers to scrub fingers: Alcohol can dry pores and skin and trigger ache. As an alternative, use cleaning soap and water to scrub fingers, talked about Dr Singla.
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Not testing sufficient: Rare testing can result in poor diabetes administration. “Take a look at recurrently to trace your progress,” stated Dr Singla.
Not understanding the glucose meter: In accordance with Dr Singla, not understanding the best way to use your glucose meter can result in errors. Learn the guide and seek the advice of your physician if wanted, he stated. Dr Agarwal talked about that not holding a correct log of readings is one other oversight, making it more durable for docs to provide the proper recommendation.
Skipping meals: Skipping meals can improve blood sugar ranges. “Eat small, frequent meals to keep up steady ranges,” stated Dr Singla.
Not rotating check websites: Testing the identical finger repeatedly may cause discomfort. “Rotate fingers to keep away from ache and callus buildup,” stated Dr Singla.
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By following appropriate testing steps, folks can guarantee their blood sugar readings are correct and helpful for managing their well being. “So, it’s crucial to seek the advice of an skilled in case you could have any doubts,” stated Dr Agarwal.
For those who discovered this insightful, it’s possible you’ll wish to learn another copies on blood sugar, too.
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DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
