What Is Capillary Blood Glucose?

Diabetics can measure their blood sugar level at home.

Glucose can be measured in whole blood, serum or plasma. Diabetics need to monitor their blood glucose (blood sugar), and capillary testing is a method for tracking glucose levels.

Definition

Capillary blood glucose is taking a blood sample from the finger using a special needle and placing the blood drop on a testing device called the glucose meter (glucometer).

Solution

Most diabetics test their blood at home using a lancet (or self-pricking needle), testing strips and the glucometer.

Function

Wipe the area clean with an alcohol swab. Place the lancet against the finger and press the button. Place a drop of blood on the testing strip. Place the strip in the glucometer. The meter displays the results on a digital display.

Benefits

You can help manage your diabetes when you know your blood sugar levels. Testing also provides your doctor with important information regarding the control of your blood sugar.

Considerations

Normal blood sugar levels before meals is 70-130 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter). After meals, the levels should be less than 180 mg/dL.

Identification

Low levels may indicate hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), while high levels may indicate hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

References

• Blood sugar control: Capillary blood glucose
• Blood glucose monitoring
• Medline Plus: Blood glucose monitoring