Re: Help with blood sugar testing
When I do a "check" week on my BG levels to make sure everything's still okay, I test:
As soon as I wake up - fasting test.
Immediately before each meal, and 2 hours after eating
At bed-time
That's 8 times a day. You could miss out the first and last if you like - the important ones are before and after meals. Keep a record of what you eat and what your test results are.
The recommended levels for a Type 2 are as follows:
4 - 7 fasting/before meals
less than 8.5, 2 hours after.
The first thing in the morning test may be above 7 - this is probably due to the Dawn Phenomenon (search on here) and is nothing to be worried about - particularly if you're still ill.
The test 2 hours after eating should be around 3 points higher than the 'before' test - preferably less than 3, but don't worry!
If you are consistently getting readings in the mid-teens, contact your diabetic nurse or GP - but don't panic! unless you feel really, really ill with it. In that case, phone NHS Direct or get yourself to A&E. But it is
very unlikely that this will occur.
As for testing - your finger-pricker should have a little wheel or switch that controls the depth of the needle. I use mine at 4 at the moment, which is quite deep, so start lower and see what happens. 1 (one) is usually the lowest - least deep. The main thing is to get a drop of blood first time, so you don't have to try again. You may need a very gentle squeeze to get the drop, but don't squeeze too hard - there should be no need.
I use the middle, ring and little fingers on each hand, which is better than focusing on one poor digit all the time. Don't go for the middle of the pad - that can easily get sore. I go round the edges of the pad, but not the very edge (the side of the finger) 'cos my bones are closer to the surface there and it hurts a bit. The more you do it, the easier it gets - promise!
So - first of all, wash your hands, and make sure your chosen finger is warm - the blood flows more easily. Position your pricker on the chosen spot, pressing a bit; close your eyes - like I do! :lol: - and press the button. It hurts less than accidentally running a sewing needle into your finger. Dip the end of the test strip into the blood; you'll get your reading after the beep. I just lick the spot to remove the blood - I very seldom have even to press to stop it, I just get the one drop.
I don't change my lancet every time, but there is no doubt that blunt lancets hurt more, so change it as often as you like. There's the (slight) possibility of infection to take into consideration, too. I change mine about every 8 weeks or so, but then I only test once or twice a day these days, if that. I know what I can eat and stick to it, so I don't have any problems.
Only if I do something silly - like yesterday, a kiwi fruit, an apple and then 2 slices of buttered toast :shock: - do I test more often. I achieved 5.7 2 hours after that lot, so I'm quite pleased
. Doesn't mean I can eat that every day, though
Remember, your BG levels are likely to be higher than normal when you have a cold, so try not to worry. When you're better, it's worth doing a week's testing just to establish what is "usual" for you.
I find that testing regularly helps to keep me on track with my low-carb diet, and I'm glad I am able to do it. It reminds me that I can't eat what I like - particularly not mince pies. I tried one again this Christmas - 11.2 after 2 hours :shock: . They are definitely forbidden food :lol:
I hope this helps. Is it what you wanted? if not, I'll try again.
Hope you're beginning to feel better.
Viv 8)
PS Your profile says you are thinking about low-carbing - how are you getting on with that? Have a look at
Viv's Modified Atkins Diet, which is a Sticky Thread in the Low Carb section of the forum. You may not want to go as low-carb as that, but it's a very good base to work from; if you want to add on extra carbs, go for Low GI vegetables and fruits (eg berries, apricots, plums). Get yourself a Carb Counter book (Collins
Gem series do a pocket-sized one) and check the carbs in what you're eating now. You may get a surprise!
