Let's learn about diabetes supplies that help you live with diabetes.

Diabetes Mellitus is a lifelong condition. Therefore, if blood sugar, or glucose, levels are not properly controlled, serious health problems can occur. Therefore, it is very important that you fully understand how to purchase diabetes testing kits and medications, and how to use them correctly.

Why is it important to check your blood sugar levels at home?

Checking your blood sugar levels at home is essential for managing your diabetes and living a normal life. Your doctor or diabetes educator will tell you how many times a day you should check your blood sugar and how to do it. It is a good idea to demonstrate how to use the glucose meter in front of them a few times according to the instructions. That way, they can make sure you are doing it correctly.

Typically, you will need to check your blood sugar level at least once in the morning before eating. In addition, it is a good idea to check your blood sugar level before lunch, dinner, and before going to bed. Sometimes your doctor may ask you to check your blood sugar level about an hour after eating.

Blood sugar levels are usually checked like this:

• First, prick your fingertip with a device that has a small needle (lancet) that is inserted into the tip of your finger.
• Then, place the resulting drop of blood on the test strip.
• Insert the test strip into the glucose meter.
• Read the value displayed on the meter screen.

If you take insulin, you may need to adjust your insulin dosage based on this value.

What other diabetes equipment do I need?

The things you need to buy may vary depending on whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. But there are some things you'll need in general. Let's take a look at what they are.

Things to consider when choosing a glucose meter

Glucose meters are small, battery-operated, handheld devices. There are many different types of meters on the market. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Prices vary greatly depending on the features you need.

When choosing a meter, consider these things:

• Ease of use: Is it easy to use?
• Speed: How long does it take to get results? (Most meters available today give results in less than 15 seconds.)
• Accuracy: How accurate are the values ​​given?
• Amount of blood required: Some meters require more blood than others. This is important for both young children and the elderly.
• Screen size: A screen with large, clear numbers is very convenient for those with poor eyesight.
• Memory and data:Some meters can remember your test results. They can also show you averages over the course of several days. Some can also connect to a computer or phone to view graphs of your sugar levels. This is very useful for both you and your doctor.

Based on the results from this meter, you can make decisions about your daily medication (for example, insulin dosage), food intake (carbohydrate counting), and exercise.

How to store medicines and equipment properly?

This is very important. If your equipment and medications are not stored properly, they may lose their effectiveness.

Insulin storage

If you use insulin, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to store it. Some manufacturers recommend storing insulin in the fridge. However, cold insulin can be a little painful to inject. So many people keep the vial they are using at room temperature. Insulin can be kept at room temperature for about a month. You can keep extra vials in the fridge and take one out when you need it and leave it at room temperature.

Never store insulin in the freezer. Also, do not store it in hot places, such as in the sun.

Storing other equipment

Test strips should be kept completely away from moisture. And don't expose them to extreme heat or cold. Doing so will cause them to not give accurate results. It's best to keep everything in one place, like a drawer, like your glucose meter, insulin, syringes, lancets, and alcohol swabs. That way, you can easily find them when you need them.

What do you do when you forget to do these things every day?

Sometimes it can be hard to remember to take your medicine or check your blood sugar at the same time every day. Try these little tricks to help you do that.

• Incorporate it into another daily routine: For example, make it a habit to check your sugar and take your medicine right when you brush your teeth in the morning.
• Keep everything in one place: Keep your equipment and medications in a place where you can always see them and easily reach them.
• Set an alarm: Set an alarm on your phone or a small watch for the next time you need to take your medicine or check your blood sugar.
• Make a chart: Make a chart by writing down the things you need to do for the day (checking your blood sugar, taking your medicine), and put a check mark in front of it when you've done it.

Are there any new devices that help manage diabetes?

Yes, with the advancement of technology, there are several new devices that help control diabetes.

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS): This is a device that continuously monitors your blood sugar levels throughout the day (including at night). The data you get from this can help you make better decisions about your diet, exercise, and medication.
• Insulin Pump: This is a small device that delivers insulin to the body at the right time, in the right dose. This helps a lot in maintaining the same blood sugar level. However, these are quite expensive . You should talk to your doctor about whether such a device is right for you and what its advantages and disadvantages are.

How to be smart when buying equipment?

Consider these factors to get the best value for your money and protect your health.

• Compare prices: Check prices from several places before buying equipment.
• Buy from a trusted source: Always purchase these only from a government hospital pharmacy, a reputable pharmacy, or a trusted organization.
• Check the expiration date: Be sure to check the expiration date on items like medicines and test strips. Don't buy items that are about to expire.
• Defective equipment: If you suspect a glucose meter is defective after purchasing it, return it and request a new one. Using a meter that gives incorrect results can put your life at risk.
• Check the package: For things like test strips, check to see if the package has been previously opened. Get a sealed, unopened package.