What is Blood Sugar Testing?
Blood sugar testing (also called blood glucose testing) is a medical procedure that measures the amount of glucose in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar that provides energy to your body’s cells and organs. It’s regulated by a hormone called insulin, which is produced in the pancreas
Blood sugar testing is important for individuals who have diabetes. Diabetes is a condition in which your body cannot determine accurate blood sugar levels. If you have high blood pressure, your organs and tissues get damaged overtime and this can further lead to many complications such as vision problems, nerve damage, kidney disease and heart disease.
When should you do Blood Sugar Testing?
If you have diabetes, then you should regularly monitor your blood sugar levels. This can be done using a glucose meter. A glucose meter will measure your blood sugar content. A drop of your blood will be obtained by pricking your finger.
The frequency of testing differs according to your treatment plan but you may have to include testing before meals, testing after meals, testing at bedtime and/or testing during physical activity.
Blood sugar testing is also recommended if you are at a risk of developing diabetes or if you show any symptoms of high blood sugar or low blood sugar. These symptoms include blurry vision, confusion, fatigue, frequent urination and increased thirst.
Why is Blood Sugar Testing Important?
If you have diabetes, then blood sugar testing is important for several reasons, including:
- Diabetes management – If you have diabetes, then regular blood sugar testing is important. You will be able to monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust your diet, exercise and medication so that you can maintain your blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
- Early detection of diabetes – You can check if you are diabetic at an early stage before you develop any symptoms. This can help you delay or prevent the complications that are associated with diabetes.
- Monitoring other health conditions – You can monitor your other health conditions that affect your blood sugar levels, such as hormonal or pancreatitis imbalances.
- Prevention of complications – Having high blood sugar levels causes damage to your organs and tissues and this further leads to more complications such as vision problems, nerve damage, heart disease and kidney disease. Regular blood sugar testing can help you delay or prevent the complications that are associated with diabetes within a healthy range.
If you want to maintain good health and avoid diabetes, then blood sugar testing is the way to do it. You will be able to monitor your blood sugar levels and take proactive steps to manage your condition better and prevent complications. Always remember that
“Diabetes is not the end of joy. Cure it and enjoy life.”