How to Test Your Blood Sugar Level

Having diabetes can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be debilitating. However, learning how to manage your diabetes is critical to stay healthy and reduce your risk of developing a serious complication, such as retinopathy or kidney disease. This means adhering to a strict diet and exercise regimen, as well as monitoring your blood sugar levels with diligence. The latter, in particular, is of vital importance. If you have diabetes, you need to know how to test your blood sugar level accurately.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Blood sugar test kit or equipment

1. Understand that a blood sugar level test measures the amount of glucose stored in the blood at any given time. The purpose of taking this test is to two-fold: to make sure that blood sugar remains in a normal range, and to enable the diabetic to act accordingly if the blood sugar level is too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia).
2. Know that a blood sugar level test may need to be conducted several times a day for some individuals and is a self-administered test that can be performed at home, work or school.
3. Consider how the blood sugar level test works. A drop of your blood is collected and then deposited on a small plastic strip, which is chemically treated. As the blood sample reacts with the chemical, the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is measured and displayed, usually on a digital screen.
4. Realize that timing is critical when performing a blood sugar test. For this reason, have all of the necessary materials and supplies at hand before proceeding with the test.
5. Expect a slight stinging sensation when you prick your finger to obtain a blood sample.
6. Consider the normal ranges depending on when the test is taken. A range of 90 to 130 mg/dL (mg per deciliter) is normal prior to meals, while a normal after-meal reading should be less than 180 mg/dL. Ranges may vary according to the testing equipment used.

Tips & Warnings

• You may experience additional bleeding from the site where the blood sample was taken. However, this should stop on its own in a few minutes, or you may place a bandage over the site.
• Wash your hands before and after performing a blood glucose test to prevent an infection of the puncture site.
• Follow the directions for performing a blood sugar level test as provided by your doctor, or the test results may not be accurate.

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