Blood glucose test strips
Test strips form a major component of a comprehensive blood glucose monitoring method. The amount of blood glucose in the blood is determined by applying blood to the test strip that is later placed in a meter to read the findings. There are two types of test strips:
Plastic test strips for visual testing: One end of the pad is soft and has chemicals coated on them, once the blood is placed on the strip the color of the strip changes if there is sugar in the blood. The color formed on the strip should be matched to the one given in the catalogue and the approximate sugar levels can be obtained.
Test strips for meter reading Similar to the visual reading strip but the meter reading is more efficient than your naked eyes. Results are seen within 90 seconds.
Store the test strips away from heat, moisture (wetness), and cold. Remove the strip from the container just before use; screw up the lid of the container tightly once the strip has been removed. Use strips that are of good quality and do not use strips after its expiry date as this may give wrong results.
Blood sugar test
Whole blood glucose test: This is also called self monitoring of blood glucose(smbg) test. It can be performed at home with readily available kits. Prick the finger, place a drop of blood on the test strip and place it on a glucometer and you can read your blood sugar levels within seconds.
Fasting plasma glucose test: This blood sugar test is done on empty stomach. The patient should stop eating and drinking 8 hours before the test is done.
Oral glucose tolerance test: This blood sugar test is conducted to check how the body reacts to a calculated amount of glucose. The person is required to follow a steady diet pattern by consuming at least 150g of carbohydrates per meal, for three days prior to the day of testing. The person is asked to stop eating and drinking 8 hours before the first blood sample is drawn. After drawing the first blood sample, glucose (pre measured amount) is given and another blood sample is drawn after 2 hours. (Normal level - less than 140 mg/dL - 7.77 mmol/L).
Two-hour postprandial blood glucose test: The test for blood sugar is done after two hours after the intake of a meal.
Random blood sugar test: This test is done at random, not taking into account the last time you ate. (Normal levels - less than 100 mg/dL - 5.55 mmol/L).
Glycated hemoglobin test This test is conducted for patients already suffering from diabetes. The average blood sugar level over a period of three months is revealed and is used to check how much a person is able to maintain diabetes.
Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia is a condition where a person has low blood glucose. The level of glucose in the blood drops below 2.5mmol/l. Insulin produced in the pancreas helps in aborption of glucose from the blood. When the levels of insulin in the blood is high, it can result in extremely low levels of blood sugar or a condition of Hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia can result on account of excessive consumption of refined sugar and carbohydrates, soft drinks or caffeine. Hypoglycaemia is sometimes noticed in persons on medications such as quinine, salicylates for rheumatic disease and propranolol for hypertension. Other causes include:
Missing or skipping meals
Strenuous exercise
Excessive alcohol consumptions
Tumor in the pancreas
Weakened pituatary gland
Reduced liver function
Overdose of insulin or diabetic tablets
A person suffering from hypoglycaemia will notice symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, agitation and trembling. There is difficulty in concentration and sometimes temporary loss of consciousness. Hypoglycaemia can cause double vision, temporary paralysis and seizures and abnormal behavior. The person suffering from hypoglycaemia feels hungry and starts sweating profusely. Ignoring this condition can lead to hypoglycaemic coma. It is essential to avoid repeated attacks of hypoglycaemia since it can lead to fatal brain damage. An attack of hypoglycaemia during driving or swimming can be disastrous. Night time hypoglycaemia is characterized by sweating at night and headache on waking up.
Hypoglycaemia is diagnosed by measuring the blood glucose levels. If there is any tumor in the pancreas, it is usually removed. Treatment for weakened pituatary and adrenal glands include suitable medication. To handle reactive hypoglycaemia, it is essential to eat smaller meals spread out during the day. This can prevent large fluctuations in insulin secretion levels. Try and include complex carbohydrates in the diet. Never overload your body with very heavy large meals. Spacing out the meals allows better digestion and absorption. Smaller meals also helps keep weight in check and keeps acidity at bay. Snack on high-fiber food as it slows down the rise in blood sugar levels. Include fresh vegetables, fruits and wholegrain cereal foods. Make lean proteins and reduced fat a part of your diet. Drink plenty of water.
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