Living with diabetes requires constant management and monitoring to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, having the right supplies can make all the difference in staying on top of your condition. In this blog post, we’ll cover the most common supplies that people with diabetes need to keep their blood sugar levels in check.
Blood Glucose Meter (Glucometer)
A blood glucose meter, also known as a glucometer, is a handheld device that measures the level of glucose in your blood. With just a small drop of blood from your finger, the device gives you a glucose reading in just a few seconds. This information helps you determine whether your blood glucose levels are too high or too low, so you can take action to correct them.
Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)
A continuous glucose monitor, or CGM, is a wearable device that continuously monitors your glucose levels throughout the day and night. The device uses a small sensor that sits under the skin and measures glucose levels in the fluid surrounding your cells. The CGM then sends this information to a receiver or a smartphone app, which alerts you if your levels are too high or too low. This can be especially helpful for people who have trouble recognizing symptoms of high or low blood sugar.
Insulin Pump
An insulin pump is an automated insulin delivery (AID) device that delivers insulin to your body in response to glucose changes. The pump is a small device that you wear on your body, and it’s connected to a small tube that delivers insulin under your skin. Insulin pumps are often used with a CGM to provide real-time feedback on glucose levels, allowing for precise insulin dosing.
Lancing Devices and Lancets
Lancing devices and lancets are used to prick your finger to obtain a drop of blood for glucose testing. The lancing device is a small, spring-loaded device that holds the lancet, which is a small, sharp needle that punctures your skin to draw blood. These devices come in various sizes and can be adjusted to control the depth of the needle.
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood glucose test strips are used in conjunction with a blood glucose meter to measure your blood sugar levels. The test strip is inserted into the meter, and then a drop of blood is placed on the strip. The meter then measures the amount of glucose in the blood sample and displays the results on the screen.
Syringes and Alcohol Prep Pads
If you take insulin injections, you’ll need syringes and alcohol prep pads. The syringe is a small, plastic device that holds the insulin, and the alcohol prep pad is used to clean the injection site before administering the insulin. Both syringes and alcohol prep pads come in various sizes and can be purchased at your local pharmacy.
Insulin Pens
Insulin pens are a convenient and portable alternative to vials and syringes for delivering insulin. An insulin pen is a small, pen-like device that holds a cartridge of insulin. The pen is fitted with a needle and can be adjusted to deliver precise insulin doses. Insulin pens are available in disposable and refillable models.
Adhesive Skin Patches
Adhesive skin patches are used in conjunction with a CGM to hold the sensor in place. The patch is placed over the sensor and helps to keep it secure and in place. The patch is also designed to be water-resistant, so you can shower or swim while wearing the sensor.
Infusion Sets
An infusion set is a connection between the insulin pump delivery device and your body. The set consists of a small plastic cannula that is inserted under the skin, and a tubing that connects the cannula to the insulin pump. The infusion set is designed to be changed every few days to prevent infection.
In conclusion, managing diabetes requires constant attention and monitoring. Having the right supplies can make it easier to manage your blood glucose levels and avoid complications. Whether you use a blood glucose meter, CGM, insulin pump, or take insulin injections, there are a variety of supplies available to help you stay on top of your diabetes. By working with your healthcare provider and staying stocked up on necessary supplies, you can live a full and healthy life with diabetes.