Some things to consider

IN addition to administering insulin and undergoing other treatments, having type 1 diabetes means that you need to constantly monitor your blood glucose level, sometimes even a few times a day. To do this, people with type 1 diabetes usually use glucometers.

Using a glucometer involves pricking your finger with a lancet and putting a small amount of blood on a test strip, which is then fed into the glucometer. Within seconds, the glucometer will display your blood glucose reading.

Because you won’t find yourself too far away from your glucometer, it is important to choose one that fits your lifestyle and needs. Several features that you may want in a glucometer are detailed below.

Amount of blood needed – Most glucometers require sample blood volume between 0.3μl and 1μl.

Some people have trouble expressing blood from their pricked fingertip because of poor circulation (which is associated with diabetes), so a device that requires a smaller amount of blood for accurate readings will be more suitable.

Data transfer – It may be convenient for you to be able to export your blood glucose level readings to your smartphone or computer.

More sophisticated glucometers can even be connected to an insulin administering device, ensuring that you do not experience hypoglycaemia from too much insulin.

Memory capacity – Reviewing past blood glucose level readings to look out for spikes and dips can help you manage your condition better.

If you do not want to transfer your glucometer data to other devices, it would be helpful to have one that can store a higher number of readings.

Cost – It is obvious that you should consider the cost of glucometers, but make sure to factor in the cost of test strips/discs/ cartridges needed to deliver the sample to the meter as well, especially since some type 1 diabetes patients need to take readings up to four times a day.