For those with diabetes, constant monitoring of blood glucose levels is a vital procedure. It is simply physically impossible to physically carry out regular tests in medical institutions, since 2 to 8 measurements are needed during the day for proper treatment. An independent measurement of blood sugar with a glucometer is perhaps the only acceptable solution for people who are constantly struggling with this ailment. Such easy-to-use instruments for rapid analysis are now widely represented on the market of devices for the diagnosis of health conditions.
The principle of operation of a household glucometer
In the most common models of household glucometers, blood sugar is measured mainly by the electrochemical method. In the factory, certain chemical reagents are applied to the surface of the measuring test strips (of course, in a strictly standardized amount).
On a note! The composition of these reagents is patented by each manufacturer of equipment for this purpose. That is, consumables from one manufacturer are by no means suitable for research on competitors' devices.
When a microscopic amount of blood hits the strip, an electrochemical reaction begins and the results are displayed on the screen, namely, the value of the glucose content in the user's blood.
The universally recognized international unit for measuring blood sugar on a glucometer (as in other laboratory tests) is the number of millimoles of glucose in 1 liter of blood circulating in the human body (mmol / l). The physical meaning of this indicator is of least interest to the average layman. But the standard values established by doctors as a result of comparing numerous clinical analyzes of healthy and sick people, you need to know every person who cares about their own health.
Norms
The ideal value (established by doctors in the course of many years of research) of glucose in human blood is 5.5-6.0 mmol / L. Naturally, this applies only to physically healthy people. Moreover, this is the norm of blood sugar when measured with a glucometer before the first meal (i.e., on an empty stomach). For example, eating sweet foods and drinks containing caffeine for breakfast (tea, coffee, Coca-Cola), to a large extent affect the increase in this indicator.
The value of the permissible (not critical for health) glucose content varies depending on the age category:
- in children and adolescents (up to 14 years old) - 3.4-5.5 mmol / l;
- for the bulk of the population (from 14 to 60 years) - 4.2-6.2 mmol / l;
- in the elderly (over 60 years) - 4.6-6.7 mmol / l.
The above values are very averaged, however, exceeding these values is a good reason to consult a doctor and conduct full-fledged laboratory tests.
To whom and why you need to measure
Without exception, all manufacturers of express analyzers indicate that the readings of blood sugar measurements using a glucometer are not intended to make a final diagnosis - diabetes (or, conversely, its absence from the user). These devices serve:
- Sick people to exercise regular monitoring of glucose in order to timely take the medications recommended by a specialist.
- For healthy users, for periodic monitoring of sugar levels and in case of regular repetitions of its high values, immediately seek the help of a medical specialist. Indeed, such an insidious “enemy of human health” as diabetes mellitus often does not have clearly expressed negative signs.
Specifications and Functionality
The main technical characteristics of electrochemical devices designed for rapid blood analysis for glucose are:
- the size of the measurement range is from 0.6 to 35 mmol / l;
- the period of time necessary for carrying out the express analysis - as a rule, from 5 to 20 seconds;
- the volume of material (blood) required for reliable measurement is from 0.3 to 1.0 microliters.
Additional features that modern models of glucometers are equipped with:
- the ability to record in the electronic memory of the device from 120 to 500 results of measurements (indicating the date and time);
- automatic calculation of the average value (for a period from 1 to 90 days);
- built-in clock with sound signaling about the need for regular measurements;
- USB connector (for connecting to a computer).
Contents of delivery
A standard blood glucose meter kit consists of:
- the device itself, with the battery installed;
- minimum set of test strips (usually no more than 10-25);
- devices for pricking a finger (the so-called "pencil");
- a set of disposable sterile lancets (the needles themselves, which are installed in the piercing device);
- case for storing fixtures and consumables;
- detailed operating instructions;
- warranty card.
How often and at what time to monitor
Detailed recommendations (in terms of the frequency of measurements, when they need to be made, etc.) on self-measurement of blood sugar with a glucometer for people suffering from diabetes mellitus can only be given by the attending physician on the basis of a clinical examination of the patient and multiple laboratory tests. Therefore, it is necessary to systematically go to a medical institution for a consultation with a specialist. It is he who will prescribe the necessary medications to maintain the normal sugar content, as well as the diet and the amount of possible physical exertion.
However, there are generally accepted averaged standards for the frequency of measurements:
- for patients with type 1 diabetes - at least 4-5 times a day;
- for people with the second type of diabetes - 2 times.
The time for measuring blood sugar with a glucometer is strictly regulated by medical prescriptions. Usually, the first analysis is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach, the second - after dinner, then - depending on the recommendations of the attending physician (this applies to the frequency of measurements, time of day, and so on).
Preparatory stage
The preliminary stage of the algorithm for measuring blood sugar with a glucometer consists of simple measures:
- In order to get the most reliable measurement results, wash my hands thoroughly with warm or hot water. This will prevent the penetration of substances that distort the readings of the device in the test blood sample.
- We wipe them dry with a sterile cloth (without the use of liquid disinfectant solutions).
- To improve blood circulation, massage the fingertip and wipe with a special swab.
Algorithm for measuring blood sugar with a glucometer
The process of taking measurements using a device for express blood analysis is quite simple:
- We install a disposable lancet in the device for piercing the finger.
- Choose the necessary level of depth (for women 2-3 is enough, for men with rougher skin 4-5).
- Insert the test strip into the device and turn it on. Some models have an autostart mode (the device enters the operating mode immediately after installing the measuring tape).
- Using a “pencil” we make a puncture.
- Apply the minimum amount of blood to the marked area of the strip.
- The algorithm for measuring blood sugar levels with a glucometer automatically starts, which usually lasts from 5 to 20 seconds (depending on the specific model). For ease of use, many models are equipped with an audible warning device that notifies the user of the end of the analysis process.
Decoding, accounting and systematization of indications
Deciphering the data, with the correct measurement of blood sugar with a glucometer, is not particularly difficult. You just look at the screen of the device and compare the readings with the values recommended by the doctor (for a given time of day).
Since measurements are made daily and repeatedly, it is necessary to organize their accounting and analysis accordingly. In the future, this will help determine the effectiveness of the drugs used or the diet used, as well as analyze the process of the disease as a whole.
Many devices have a port for connecting to a computer. Software downloaded from the manufacturer’s website (free) allows you to:
- save data and keep a diary of numerous measurements on a computer;
- automatically plot daily, weekly or monthly fluctuations in glucose levels;
- analyze data using specially designed programs.
For those who are not very “friendly” with a computer or have a glucometer without a USB port, paper media is quite suitable. The main thing is not to forget to regularly enter into it all the testimony of the measurements taken.
On a note! For models from some manufacturers, a measurement log is included with the product.
Precautions and Calibration
Express analysis instruments themselves do not require any maintenance. The main thing is to store them in a regular case, in a clean form and not allow mechanical damage. But for the correct measurement of blood sugar with a glucometer, test strips should in no case be stored near heat sources. This can lead to a change in the chemical properties of the reagents applied to them, and, as a result, to a distortion of the readings of the device.
Professional calibration of accuracy of measurements of household glucometers can be made only in specialized medical service centers. Naturally, this paid service is available only to residents of large cities.
However, it is quite simple to check the correctness of the readings of your measuring device by yourself. To do this, you need to take it with you for the planned delivery of the analysis in the laboratory of the clinic. Just ask the laboratory assistant (during the blood sampling) to drop 0.5 microliters of the material on the test strip of your device. Remembering his testimony and comparing it with the results of the obtained clinical analysis, you will be able to make appropriate adjustments for self-measurement.
For information! Some manufacturers (for example, Diakont) complete their products with a bottle of special control solution. With it, you can periodically check the accuracy of the instrument.
Popular models and prices
Popular glucometer models for measuring blood sugar: Accu Chek Active (Germany), OneTouch Select (Switzerland), Sigma Glucocard (Russia) and Diakont C (Taiwan). The price of such devices is quite affordable and today is 600-800 rubles. Almost all manufacturers provide an unlimited warranty on their products. All devices are certified and manufactured in strict accordance with international standards.
Important user information! The bulk of the financial burden (especially with frequent use) is the acquisition of disposable strips for express analysis. For example, for packaging (50 pieces) for OneTouch Select you will have to pay an average of about 1000 rubles.
Key selection criteria
When choosing a specific model for measuring blood sugar with a glucometer, it is recommended to pay attention to several key points:
- First of all, inquire about the availability and regularity of supplies to the pharmacies and specialized medical equipment stores in your region for this particular model. Without them, an important and necessary device will turn into a useless gadget.
- Buying cheap Chinese copies online is also not worth it. The price gain is minimal, and the risk of obtaining a device with unreliable measurement results is very high.
- Before making a final decision, you should read the reviews about the selected model, which you can find on the Internet or hear in the queue to the doctor (from patients who have tested the operation of the express analysis device in practice).
Innovative non-invasive blood glucose meters
These are devices that allow for rapid analysis and monitoring of results without puncture of the skin, which is necessary when using a conventional electrochemical glucometer. Such devices have not yet gained much popularity among Russian users due to their high price. Yes, and it’s quite difficult to purchase them in pharmacies (basically, they are still being ordered directly on manufacturers' websites).
The starter kit of the German FreeStyle Libre device currently costs about 25,000 rubles. The measuring sensor is installed using a special device on the forearm. To read the readings, it is enough to bring the main device (outwardly resembling a small mobile phone) to the sensor. The life of one sensor is 14 days, after which it is necessary to replace it with a new one (the cost of which is 10-12 thousand rubles).
Israeli glucometer Gluco Track DF-F is even more expensive - from 70 000 rubles. The measuring clip is attached to the earlobe. The term of its guaranteed operation is 0.5 years (regardless of the number of measurements taken). The multifunctional main unit (with a color LCD screen) allows you to save up to 1000 measurements made in memory.
The measuring sensor of the American Symphony tCGM instrument (designed for continuous monitoring of readings) is attached to the most convenient part of the body. Before installing the sensor, it is necessary to pre-peel the skin (using the device included in the delivery). Measurement data is automatically transferred to the user's smartphone.
In custody
In order for the purchased device to last for a long time, it is necessary to observe the simple rules for measuring blood sugar with a glucometer and the storage conditions for consumables. And although the cost of the device is low, before purchasing it, you should do a laboratory analysis and get the appropriate recommendations from a specialist.