Find A Supplier
More Videos On This Subjectdiagnosis
NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme; Preventing Type 2 and improving outcomes for people with diabetes
Diabetes: How to Check Your Blood Glucose Level | NHS
Monitoring blood glucose levels is an essential part of managing diabetes. Maintaining optimal blood glucose levels can prevent complications and improve the quality of life. The NHS recommends regular checks to keep your diabetes in control. This guide will inform you on how to perform these checks effectively.
Why Check Blood Glucose Levels?
Regular monitoring helps you understand how food, exercise, and medication affect your glucose levels. By keeping track, you'll be able to make informed decisions about diet and exercise. This can greatly reduce the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy.
When to Check Blood Glucose Levels
The timing and frequency of glucose checks can vary based on your individual treatment plan. Generally, those with Type 1 diabetes may need to check their levels multiple times a day, while those with Type 2 diabetes might need less frequent checks. Common times to check include:
- Before meals
- After meals
- Before and after exercise
- Before bedtime
- When you feel unwell
Types of Blood Glucose Meters
There are various types of blood glucose meters available. The most common include:
- Standard blood glucose meters
- Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
- Flash glucose monitoring systems
Each type has its own advantages and specific instructions for use. It's important to choose a device that fits your lifestyle and is easy for you to use.
Steps to Check Your Blood Glucose Levels
- Wash your hands thoroughly to ensure accurate readings.
- Prepare your kit: Gather your meter, test strips, and a lancing device.
- Insert a test strip into the meter.
- Use the lancing device to prick the side of your fingertip to get a drop of blood.
- Touch the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood and wait for the meter to process the reading.
- Record your reading, including the time and date.
Interpreting Results
The NHS recommends the following target blood glucose levels for most adults with diabetes:
- Before meals: 4 to 7 mmol/L
- After meals: less than 9 mmol/L
Your healthcare provider may provide a different target range tailored to your needs. If your readings are consistently outside your target range, consult your healthcare provider for advice on adjusting your management plan.
For more information and support, you can visit the NHS Diabetes page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is blood glucose monitoring?
Blood glucose monitoring involves regularly testing the level of glucose in your blood. It helps you manage diabetes by providing information on how various factors affect your blood glucose levels.
Why is it important to check blood glucose levels?
Checking blood glucose levels helps you manage your diabetes, avoid complications, and make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and medication.
What are the normal blood glucose levels?
For most people with diabetes, the target blood glucose levels are: 4 to 7 mmol/L before meals and under 9 mmol/L 2 hours after meals.
How often should I check my blood glucose levels?
The frequency of testing varies depending on your treatment plan and the type of diabetes you have. Typically, you may need to check your levels several times a day.
What equipment do I need to check my blood glucose levels?
You need a blood glucose meter, test strips, a lancet device, and lancets to check your blood glucose levels.
How do I use a blood glucose meter?
Wash your hands, insert a test strip into the meter, use the lancet device to prick your finger, squeeze out a drop of blood onto the test strip, and wait for the meter to display your blood glucose level.
What should I do if my blood glucose levels are too high?
If your blood glucose levels are too high, you may need to adjust your medication, diet, or exercise routine. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
What should I do if my blood glucose levels are too low?
If you experience low blood glucose (hypoglycaemia), consume fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or juice. Recheck your levels after 15 minutes and seek medical advice if necessary.
Can stress affect my blood glucose levels?
Yes, stress can affect your blood glucose levels by releasing hormones that can increase blood glucose. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and physical activity can help.
How does food impact blood glucose levels?
Carbohydrates, protein, and fat can all impact blood glucose levels. Monitoring your diet and understanding how different foods affect your levels is crucial.
Can I use alternative sites for blood sampling?
Yes, some glucose meters allow for alternative site testing (e.g., forearm, palm). However, fingertip testing usually provides more accurate and timely results.
Is it safe to reuse lancets?
It is generally not recommended to reuse lancets as it can lead to infections and cause the needle to become blunt, making testing more painful.
What can cause inaccurate blood glucose readings?
Factors such as expired test strips, improper storage of supplies, unclean hands, and insufficient blood sample size can cause inaccurate readings.
Should I keep a record of my blood glucose levels?
Yes, keeping a record of your blood glucose levels can help you and your healthcare provider manage your diabetes more effectively.
Can I use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) instead of finger-pricking?
A CGM can provide real-time glucose readings without finger-pricks. However, you may still need to do occasional finger-prick tests to ensure accuracy and calibrate the CGM.
Useful Links
Useful links from: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme; Preventing Type 2 and improving outcomes for people with diabetes
- NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Information about the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme which aims to identify those at high risk of Type 2 diabetes and help them make lifestyle changes to prevent the condition.
- Diabetes UK - Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Diabetes UK provides comprehensive information on preventing Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes, risk factors, and helpful tips to maintain healthy habits.
- NHS - Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment An online tool provided by the NHS to assess your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The tool offers personalized advice and resources based on your risk level.
- NHS Inform - Preventing Type 2 Diabetes NHS Inform offers detailed guidance on how to prevent Type 2 diabetes, including dietary recommendations, physical activity guidelines, and overall lifestyle advice.
Useful links from: Improving outcomes for people with diabetes
- Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group - Diabetes Management Information and resources by the NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group on managing diabetes, including local services, support groups, and educational programmes.
- Diabetes UK - North East England Details and resources from Diabetes UK specific to the North East region, including Leeds. Find local events, support groups, and fundraising opportunities.
- Leeds Health and Care Plan - Diabetes The Leeds Health and Care Plan outlines strategies for improving health outcomes, including for those with diabetes. Learn about collaborative efforts between NHS trusts, charity organizations, and the Leeds City Council.
- Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust - Diabetes Clinical Advice The Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust provides resources and clinical advice for diabetes management, including emergency care and educational materials.
Useful links from: How to inject insulin
- NHS - How to Take Insulin Official NHS guidance on the proper methods for insulin injection, including preparation, injection techniques, and site rotation.
- Diabetes UK - Injecting Insulin Diabetes UK provides detailed information on insulin injection, including step-by-step instructions, tips for minimizing discomfort, and managing injection sites.
- JDRF UK - Insulin and Needles JDRF UK offers resources and support for insulin injection techniques, including advice on types of insulin and needle selection.
- NHS Inform - Using Insulin NHS Inform provides comprehensive information on using insulin safely, including how to store insulin and handle missed doses.
Useful links from: Tom's story (NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme)
- NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Learn about the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme which aims to identify those at high risk and refer them onto a behavior change program to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
- Diabetes UK - NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Read about the joint initiative between Diabetes UK, NHS England, and Public Health England to prevent Type 2 diabetes through the Diabetes Prevention Programme.
- Diabetes UK - Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Comprehensive guide on how to prevent Type 2 diabetes, including lifestyle changes, managing risk factors, and stories from people like Tom who have benefited from these interventions.
- NHS - Diabetes Prevention: Your Healthier Future Information on how the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme works, the criteria for participation, and the impact it has had on individuals and communities in the UK.
Useful links from: The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme story
- NHS - Diabetes Prevention Programme The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHS DPP) provides support to help people at high risk of Type 2 diabetes to make changes to their lifestyle to reduce their risk.
- Diabetes UK - NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Diabetes UK offers detailed information about the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme and how it supports people to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
- Healthier You - NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Healthier You is the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme's official site, providing resources and support for those looking to prevent Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes.
- British Heart Foundation - Diabetes Prevention The British Heart Foundation offers guidance on preventing Type 2 diabetes as part of maintaining overall cardiovascular health.
Useful links from: Hansa's story - The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme
- NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Official NHS page detailing the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which aims to help those at high risk of Type 2 diabetes to lower their risk.
- Diabetes UK - NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Information provided by Diabetes UK about the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, including how it works and who can join.
- Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme A dedicated site for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, providing details on how to assess your risk and steps to prevent Type 2 diabetes.
- NHS Inform - Diabetes Prevention NHS Inform’s comprehensive guide on preventing diabetes, including lifestyle changes and the role of the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
Useful links from: Pam’s story - The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme
- NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Official NHS page providing detailed information on the Diabetes Prevention Programme, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to get involved.
- Diabetes UK Diabetes UK's section on the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, with insights on what the programme involves and resources available to support people at risk of Type 2 diabetes.
- Your Health: Pam’s Story on NHS Blog post on the NHS England website sharing Pam’s personal journey with the Diabetes Prevention Programme, highlighting the impact it made on her life.
- British Heart Foundation Information from the British Heart Foundation on the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, including how it can help prevent heart complications associated with diabetes.
Useful links from: Diabetes: How to inject insulin | NHS
- Diabetes: How to Inject Insulin | NHS Official NHS resource providing detailed guidance on how to inject insulin safely and effectively for diabetes management.
- Diabetes UK: How to Inject Insulin Diabetes UK offers a comprehensive guide on how to inject insulin, including considerations for site selection and technique.
- JDRF: Insulin Injection Tips Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) provides tips and best practices for insulin injections to help manage type 1 diabetes.
- TREND-UK: Insulin Injection Therapy TREND-UK offers educational resources on insulin injection therapy, including practical advice for healthcare professionals and patients.
Useful links from: Patient voices in type one diabetes - I would have done things differently.
- NHS - Living with Type 1 Diabetes Comprehensive guide by the NHS on living with type 1 diabetes, including patient stories, management tips, and resources for support.
- Diabetes UK - Type 1 Diabetes Detailed information from the charity Diabetes UK on type 1 diabetes, including real-life patient experiences, advice on living with the condition, and support options.
- JDRF UK - Type 1 Diabetes JDRF UK provides information and resources specifically on type 1 diabetes, offering patient stories and advice for managing the condition.
- Children with Diabetes UK - Advice & Stories A platform for parents and children dealing with type 1 diabetes, featuring personal stories, practical advice, and tips on how to manage the condition differently.
More Videos On This Subjectdiagnosis
NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme; Preventing Type 2 and improving outcomes for people with diabetes
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.