Complications (5)
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Blood sugar monitoring: Why, when and how
Troubleshooting problems with your blood sugar monitor
When used correctly, you can count on your blood sugar monitor to provide accurate readings. If you think something's not right, start with the basics:
- Check the test strips. Throw out damaged or outdated strips.
- Check the monitor. Make sure the monitor is at room temperature, and the strip guide and the test window are clean. Replace the batteries in the monitor, if needed.
- Check the measurement scale (calibration). Some monitors must be calibrated to each container of test strips. Be sure the code number in the monitor matches the code number on the container of test strips.
- Check your technique. Wash your hands with soap and water before pricking your finger. Apply a generous drop of blood to the test strip. Don't add more blood to the test strip after the first drop was applied.
If you're still not sure what's wrong, do a quality control test according to the manufacturer's instructions and check the owner's manual for other troubleshooting issues. You can bring the monitor to your next doctor appointment as well.
Watch for advances in monitoring tools
Although finger pricks remain the gold standard for blood sugar monitoring, researchers are developing products designed to take the "ouch" out of the process. You might ask your doctor about the alternatives.
| Device | How it works | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative site monitor | An alternative site monitor allows you to take blood samples from areas likely to be less painful than your finger, such as your arm, abdomen or thigh. | Blood samples from alternative sites are not as accurate as fingertip samples when your blood sugar level is rising or falling quickly. |
| Infrared light monitor | An infrared light monitor uses a beam of light to penetrate the skin and measure your blood sugar level. | Variations in blood pressure, body temperature and other factors can affect the accuracy of blood sugar readings with infrared light monitors. You may need to periodically check your blood sugar level with a traditional monitor to confirm blood sugar readings. |
| Skin testing | A skin testing device, worn like a watch, uses small electrical currents to repeatedly pull tiny amounts of fluid from your skin to a special sensor pad. An alarm can warn you if your blood sugar level becomes too low or too high. | Skin irritation is possible, and the device isn't effective if you're sweating heavily. You may need to periodically check your blood sugar level with a traditional monitor to confirm blood sugar readings. |
| Continuous glucose testing | A continuous glucose testing device uses a sensor placed under your skin to measure your blood sugar level. Each reading is transmitted to a small recording device worn on your body. An alarm can warn you if your blood sugar level becomes too low or too high. | The sensor is expensive — typically costing between $1,000 and $2,000 — and must be moved every few days. You may need to periodically check your blood sugar level with a traditional monitor to confirm blood sugar readings. |
Keep in mind that insurance coverage varies for blood sugar monitors. Check with your insurance provider for specific details about coverage.
What to do with poor results
Record the results of each blood sugar reading, whether you jot the results in a log or your monitor keeps track for you. If your blood sugar readings are consistently higher or lower than your target range — or blood sugar extremes don't respond to adjustments in diet or medication — you may need to revise your treatment plan. In some cases, your doctor may suggest changing your diet or including more physical activity in your daily routine. If that's not effective, you may need to take medication or adjust your medication dosage.
Remember, you're not in this alone. Your diabetes treatment team is there to help you manage your diabetes. Work together to make sure you're doing everything you can to prevent diabetes complications.
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