How to Test Yourself for Diabetes
According to 2007 statistics from the American Diabetes Association, more than 23 million people in the U.S. have diabetes. However, it is estimated that almost 25 percent of these individuals are unaware of their condition. Some of the risk factors for developing diabetes include hypertension, high cholesterol, high body weight and increasing age. It is possible to do a simple home glucose test for diabetes. However, you should always follow up with your physician to confirm any test results.
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Things You'll Need
- Soap and hot water
- Latex glove
- Sterile lancet
- Flat surface
- Glucose test card
- Stop watch or clock with a second hand
Instructions
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How to Test Yourself for Diabetes
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1
Fast for at least eight hours before testing your blood. For best results, eat a light meal before you go to bed and get eight hours of sleep. Do the home diabetes test first thing the next morning.
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2
Wash your hands thoroughly. Use fairly hot water since it will increase the blood flow to your fingers. This makes it easier to obtain a sufficient sample.
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3
Put a latex glove on your right hand. Lay out the card on a flat surface and take the protective tip off the lancet.
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4
Select a finger on your left hand from which to draw blood. The middle finger is a good choice since you don't use it as much as your index finger. Your fingertip may be slightly sore after the test.
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5
Use the lancet to prick the fleshy tip of your finger. Squeeze your finger until you have a large drop of blood hanging from it. Apply the blood drop to the test panel on the glucose card.
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6
Wait three minutes. Peel the tab off the test card and slide out the comparison card. Match the colors on the test area and the comparison card to discover your results.
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Tips & Warnings
If your test is positive for high or abnormal blood sugar, contact your doctor. If you test negative, you can check your blood sugar again later for your own peace of mind.
If you tend to faint when you see blood, have a place prepared so you can lie down while you wait to check your test result.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image courtesy of cc license by flickr user jessicafm http://www.flickr.com/photos/jessicafm/187457292/
