People diagnosed with Diabetes will have to undergo treatment methods specific to their type of Diabetes. These treatment techniques will involve the use of various Diabetic products. Type 1 Diabetes is managed with regular exercise, a healthy diet and with Insulin injections or using Insulin pumps. Type 2 Diabetes, on the other hand is usually treated with regular exercise, well-planned diet, weight loss (for obese people) and sometimes with the use of Diabetes medications. Both the treatment methods will require the patients to monitor their blood Glucose levels regularly. For this, blood monitoring devices will have to be used. This article takes you through the important Diabetic products needed to manage Diabetes.
Blood Glucose meters
Regular monitoring of your blood Glucose levels is an essential part of managing Diabetes. People with Type 1 Diabetes will have to check their blood sugar levels at least three times a day while Type 2 Diabetics will have to do it at least once a day. Frequent monitoring of blood sugar will help patients to make adjustments in their diet, physical activity and medications.
Blood Glucose meters basically work by analyzing small blood samples taken from the fingertip. The blood sample, placed in the test strips is tested by the meter. There are several varieties of Glucose meters that may vary in their speed, display, storing features, ease of use etc. It is important to select the right blood glucose monitor and check your blood sugar levels as recommended by your doctor.
Diabetic test strips
Test strips are thin strips of plastic used in blood Glucose meters to test the blood. Blood samples are placed in these strips, which are of one time use. Then the samples are analyzed by the Glucose meters. Depending on the type of test strips, you can either place drops of blood on them or draw blood into them. Make sure that the strips you buy are compatible with your Glucose meter.
Insulin pens and needles
Insulin pens are used to deliver Insulin into the body. They make use of small gauge needles and hence are less painful when compared to syringes. With the help of your doctor, you can choose the right Insulin pump that suits your needs. People who use more than one type of Insulin will have to use different pens to administer the Insulin. You have a wide range of pen needles to choose from. It is recommended to replace the needles soon after use. There are reusable and disposable Insulin pens available. Although these pens will last for many years, it would be a good idea to talk to your doctor and be updated about the latest changes in these products.
Insulin pumps
An Insulin pump is used to deliver a constant supply of Insulin into the body. The apparatus consists of a pump and a catheter inserted under the skin. The pump encloses Insulin and can be programmed to releases Insulin at certain intervals. Extra amounts of Insulin can be released by pressing a button in the pump. The Insulin pump is less painless and it manages the blood sugar levels more effectively, as it releases a more expected amount of Insulin.
Lancets
The Lancet is a needle like device which is mounted in a pen device. When the release button is pressed, the Lancet moves forward and pricks the finger producing a small amount t of blood.
Ketone test strips
People with Diabetes should check for Ketones in their urine. Ketones are the byproducts of fat breakdown. High levels of Ketones can lead to Diabetic coma in many people. Ketones are mostly checked with the help of blood Glucose meters that measures a type of Ketone called Beta- hydroxybutyric acid.
Conclusion
People suffering from Diabetes should have the knowledge and skills to manage their disease. Since self management is crucial in dealing with this deadly disease, the patients should be well-equipped with the tools and devices needed for the purpose. Without access to these tools, the management of Diabetes will not yield expected results. The Diabetes products and medication that you buy should complement the treatment methods followed by you. Most important of all, discuss with your healthcare team before purchasing any Diabetes products or medications.
