Wondering How to Check Diabetes at Home? Find Out How!

Ways to Test Blood Sugar at Home

There are 3 main ways through which you can test your blood glucose (sugar) levels at home. 

1. Blood Glucose Meter

This is the most widely available and affordable option. Blood glucose meters are also called glucometers. This device uses a test strip on which a sample of blood taken from your finger is placed, and the strip is inserted into the meter to check your blood sugar.

2. Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) Device

Continuous glucose monitoring involves the insertion of a tiny sensor underneath your skin and provides real-time blood glucose readings every few minutes. This sensor measures your glucose level and sends the information to a monitor or an app on your phone. An alarm sounds if your blood sugar becomes too high or too low.

3. Sensor-Based Glucose Monitoring System

In this system, there is no finger prick required, and a tiny sensor is inserted underneath your skin. It does not provide continuous readings. Rather, when you want to check your blood sugar level, you can use a reader to scan the sensor.

The Importance of Blood Sugar Testing

Blood glucose testing is crucial to monitor your glucose levels and assess if your diabetes is under control. Blood glucose levels tend to fluctuate after meals, exercise, physical activity, or stress.

Both hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar levels) and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar levels) are associated with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. High or low blood sugar can cause severe complications. Hyperglycemia can lead to complications such as glaucoma, nerve damage, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Regular blood sugar monitoring helps you understand the impact of factors such as meals, exercise, physical activity, illness, and stress on blood sugar levels. It prevents episodes of hyperglycaemia or hypoglycaemia. It also helps you assess the efficacy of insulin therapy or other treatment modalities for diabetes.

When Should I Test My Blood Glucose Level?

You should check your blood glucose levels depending on the type of diabetes you have, the treatment you follow, and the instructions given by your doctor. The typical timings followed for at-home blood sugar tests are:

• Before meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• After meals
• Before snacks
• Before exercise
• After exercise
• At bedtime
• During the night, in rare cases

Discuss with your doctor and personalise your glucose monitoring schedule as per your health condition.

What is the Blood Glucose Test Procedure at Home?

Blood sugar testing using a blood glucose meter requires a small sample of blood to be placed on a disposable test strip. Even if you use CGM, you will need a blood glucose meter to calibrate your CGM device daily.

Consult your doctor about which device is best for you and how to use it. Read and follow the instructions that come with your device.

Testing your blood glucose levels at home usually involves the following steps:

• Wash and dry your hands well.
• Insert a test strip into your meter.
• Prick the side of your fingertip with the lancet (small needle) provided with your device.
• Gently squeeze your finger until a drop of blood forms on the tip.
• Touch and hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood.
• In a few seconds, the meter will display your blood glucose level on the screen.

Tips for Accurate Testing

You can follow these tips to ensure accurate testing of your blood glucose levels at home:

• Calibrate your device at regular intervals and run periodic quality checks. Check the batteries regularly. 
• Use good quality test strips compatible with the device and store them appropriately. Pay attention to the expiration dates for test strips.
• Test your blood glucose levels more frequently whenever you make any changes to your routine, such as lifestyle modifications or diet planning.
• Keep a written record of your blood sugar levels with the date and time. Also, keep track of your physical activity and exercise regimes. 
• Consult your doctor regularly about the frequency of testing your blood sugar levels.

Interpreting the Results

For individuals without diabetes, blood sugar levels should be within the following ranges:

• Fasting: under 100 mg/dL
• Before meals: Less than 110 mg/dL
• Two hours after meals: Below 140 mg/dL
• At bedtime: Under 120 mg/dL

For people with diabetes, blood sugar readings should be within the following ranges: 

• Fasting: 80 to 130 mg/dL
• Before meals: 70 to 130 mg/dL
• Two hours after meals: Below 180 mg/dL
• At bedtime: Under 120 mg/dL

As per the American Diabetes Association (ADA), ranges often vary depending on the age and personal health of the individual.

When to Consult a Doctor?

• Consult a doctor to discuss your results and the target range. You should also consult your doctor whenever you see sharp fluctuation (high or low) in your blood sugar levels.
• Those with prediabetes are at risk of developing diabetes. They should continue monitoring their blood glucose levels regularly and consult a doctor.
• Note the warning signs of abnormally high or low blood sugar levels, and consult a doctor at the earliest if you observe them.