What is Glucometer?

 Glucometer is a portable device with which one can measure and monitor blood sugar levels/ concentration of glucose in blood. Glucometer is of great use to diabetic patients as they can keep a record of their blood sugar levels from the comfort of their home. This device is easy to use. It helps in providing instant results regarding the blood sugar levels hence enabling the patient to decide when he needs to meet his doctor.

Regular monitoring of blood glucose is important as it can prevent or delay complications of diabetes. Monitoring of blood sugar level further helps in comprehending the effects of various food substances and activities on blood glucose levels in your body.

There are different types of glucometers available in the market but they all perform the same function. Commonly used glucometer kit includes lancets (needles used to prick the skin); test strips (used to test and measure blood glucose levels). Each strip is to be used once and then discarded. Before testing ensure that the test strips have not expired.

LCD display on the glucometer displays the blood sugar readings and towards the bottom, there is a slot to fit the test strip. The device has an in-built memory to store the glucose readings. Some models of glucometer can be connected to a personal computer and the test results can be stored.

Working

Lancet is used to prick the skin and a small sample of blood is placed on a test strip which is then placed in the device slot. The sensor underneath this slot transmits the reading for the blood sample. Test strips are coated with chemicals which react with glucose present in blood. Glucometer measures the amount of glucose present. Glucose level displayed is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimol per liter (mmol/L).

Volume of blood sample required for testing varies from model to model, from 0.3 to 1 μl. Time taken to read the test strip may vary from 3 to 60 seconds for different models.

Accuracy
Glucometers must meet the accuracy standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). There are several factors that affect the accuracy of a test, such as calibration of meter, amount and quality of blood sample, cleanliness of meter, humidity, aging of test strips, etc. Good machines too, have a margin of error of minimum 10%. Laboratory testing for blood sugar is advisable once in 6 months.

Glucometers are easily available online (www.flipkart.com) and in medical stores without a prescription. This device is a must-have device for people suffering with diabetes. 

Author, Dr. Varsha Sharma is a Consultant Homoeopath, practising since last 17yrs. She is an Associate Professor in a Homoeopathic Medical College. She has got vast experience in treating several ailments ranging from high blood sugar, low blood sugar, hair fall, psoriasis, acne, skin complaints, recurrent respiratory complaints, bronchitis, asthma, allergic coryza, migraine, sinusitis, nasal polyps, kidney complaints, female disorders, respiratory diseases, digestive disorders, arthritis, pains and aches, erectile dysfunction, impotence, kidney stones, depression, psychiatric disorders, recurrent attacks of cold, paediatric complaints, old age diseases, etc. She further offers Online Homeopathic treatment; Dietetic counselling; martial counselling and addiction counselling. She can be reached on her email – drvarshas@gmail.com