Post Time: 2025-07-18
Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for everyone, but it becomes even more vital when you're ill. During sickness, your body undergoes significant stress, impacting hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose. Whether you have diabetes (type 1, type 2, or gestational), or you're simply aiming for optimal health, frequent and accurate monitoring is key to preventing complications.
Illness can cause the body to become more resistant to insulin, making it difficult for your body to move glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. As a result, blood sugar levels often rise, a state known as hyperglycemia. Conversely, some illnesses, particularly those accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, may lead to decreased appetite or absorption of nutrients, which could cause hypoglycemia, a state of low blood sugar.
Regular blood glucose monitoring can:
- Detect significant changes in blood sugar levels early on.
- Inform appropriate adjustments to medication, diet, or activity levels.
- Prevent severe episodes of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, which can lead to serious health issues such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), or severe hypoglycemic events.
- Personalize treatment strategies by allowing for tailored responses based on how different illnesses affect individuals' glucose levels.
It's not enough to simply monitor; it's essential to do so accurately. That’s where blood glucose monitors (also called glucometers) become essential.
Choosing the Right Blood Glucose Monitor for Illness
When you're feeling under the weather, having a reliable and user-friendly blood glucose monitor can make a significant difference. Not all monitors are created equal, and the right choice can simplify the management of blood sugar levels when you're not at your best.
Here are critical factors to consider when selecting a glucometer, especially for illness-related monitoring:
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Accuracy and Reliability: The monitor should have a consistent track record for accurate readings, within acceptable margins set by health organizations like the FDA. Research clinical trials and comparisons before you purchase a meter. A meter with a history of accuracy, reliability, and consistently produced results can help better inform treatment decisions.
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Ease of Use: During illness, cognitive and physical functions might be diminished. A simple, user-friendly interface with clear instructions is paramount. Look for large screens, easy-to-handle buttons, and minimal coding procedures. Consider one with a built-in testing reminder to reduce the possibility of forgetting to take a measurement.
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Blood Sample Size: Smaller blood sample requirements can be beneficial, especially for those who struggle with repeated finger pricks. Smaller sample sizes usually equate to reduced pain and can make testing more comfortable. Look for meters that are specified as only requiring very small volumes.
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Speed of Testing: When unwell, it helps to get the results quickly. A monitor with fast processing speeds reduces wait times. Choose monitors with read times of fewer than five seconds.
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Memory Storage: Having the ability to track previous readings is valuable for both personal reference and healthcare provider consultations. A monitor with adequate memory storage can track your fluctuations over a period.
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Data Transfer Capabilities: Some modern monitors offer the capability to transfer data to smartphones or computers via Bluetooth, facilitating seamless data sharing with healthcare professionals for remote monitoring and assessment. These technologies can provide both caregivers and family with valuable data, especially for those caring for children or the elderly.
| Feature | Importance During Illness | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Highest priority | Enables correct treatment decisions |
| Ease of Use | Crucial for ease and compliance | Less strain for individuals who are feeling ill |
| Blood Sample Size | Increases comfort | Less pain/stress and minimizes any discomfort with taking a reading |
| Speed | Convenient and time-saving | Quick results for fast decision making |
| Memory | Facilitates comprehensive review | Track changes in glucose level |
| Data Transfer | Enables efficient communication | Useful for caregiver support |
Best Practices for Using Blood Glucose Monitors During Illness
Once you've selected a suitable blood glucose monitor, understanding how to use it correctly, particularly when you're ill, is essential for safe and effective blood sugar management. Proper usage involves several important steps:
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Frequency of Testing: Increase your testing frequency as advised by your healthcare provider or as you deem necessary based on changes to your body. During an illness, blood glucose levels can fluctuate rapidly. Some recommend testing every 2-4 hours when you are feeling under the weather. Testing should be done when you wake up, before each meal, two hours after meals, at bedtime, and anytime you feel symptoms of low or high blood sugar.
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Hygiene Matters: Before testing, always wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures accuracy, as traces of food or debris could alter readings. Avoid using alcohol-based wipes as residue can affect readings.
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Lancing Technique: Use a new sterile lancet with each test. Change the depth of the lancing device to reduce pain in specific finger locations. Rotate the site of finger pricks and avoid repeatedly using the same finger, as the area will become calloused and more sensitive over time.
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Proper Strip Storage: Blood glucose test strips are sensitive to moisture and temperature. Store them in the original vial, in a cool, dry place, and check the expiration date. Exposure to high humidity or extreme temperature can damage them and affect their accuracy. Always keep the container closed and avoid exposure to sunlight.
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Record Keeping: Always write down the date and time of the reading, along with any symptoms or conditions that could be related to blood sugar changes, such as eating, medication administration, exercise, stress, or sickness symptoms. Having clear records can give your medical staff the data to make informed decisions and assess trends over time.
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Understanding Results: Be familiar with the normal ranges, but note that targets for blood glucose levels can vary according to individual needs and medical conditions. Discuss this with your healthcare team. Be prepared to make necessary adjustments as appropriate and always seek medical help when you encounter abnormal or unexpected readings, or if your symptoms change.
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Action Plans: Have a written sick-day action plan as outlined by your doctor that specifies when to increase testing frequency, when to adjust medications (insulin, etc.), how to modify meal plans, and when to seek emergency care.
| Best Practice | Explanation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Frequency | Increases according to health status | Helps catch glucose shifts sooner |
| Hygiene | Hands must be clean | Avoids false readings/infections |
| Lancing Technique | Sterilization & rotation | Minimizes pain and infection |
| Strip Storage | Vials sealed, dry, and cool | Keeps strips accurate |
| Record Keeping | Log all measurements | Assists in care and monitoring |
| Result Understanding | Learn to analyze results | Assists decision-making |
| Sick Plan | Written plan of action | Improves self-management of blood glucose levels |
Common Issues and Troubleshooting with Blood Glucose Monitors
Even with careful use, problems can sometimes occur with blood glucose monitors. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues can minimize errors and ensure accurate blood sugar management during illness:
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Inaccurate Readings: If you suspect the reading is not accurate, try testing again with a fresh strip. Double-check that the monitor’s code matches the strip's coding. If readings remain inconsistent, consider that the monitor may require calibration, or the strip may be expired.
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Error Messages: Pay attention to any error messages displayed by the monitor. Check the manual for explanations and follow recommended procedures, or reach out to the manufacturer’s support if the issue persists. Some common error messages might relate to strips being used incorrectly, improper testing temperature, low batteries, or monitor failure.
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Device Malfunction: If the monitor is physically damaged, displaying unusual results, or refuses to turn on, do not use the device. Contact the manufacturer or your healthcare provider for further assistance. There could be an issue with the device needing repair.
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Battery Issues: When the battery is low, the readings might be inaccurate. Ensure that your monitor is properly charged and replace the battery when required. Make it part of your management plan to always keep new or fully-charged batteries available.
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Strip Errors: Always check that strips are compatible with your glucometer and always check for an expiration date. Using the wrong kind or expired strips can produce incorrect results.
| Common Problem | Potential Cause(s) | Action to Take |
|---|---|---|
| Inaccurate Readings | Incorrect strip, improper use, calibration needed | Retest with a new strip, recalibrate, use a control solution |
| Error Messages | Incorrect technique, malfunction | Check the manual and perform the action indicated |
| Device Malfunction | Damaged or non-operational device | Replace the meter |
| Battery Issues | Low power | Charge or replace battery |
| Strip Errors | Improper storage, expired strips | Check strips for damage, replace them |
Title 5: When to Seek Medical Help and the Role of a Healthcare Provider
While blood glucose monitors are excellent tools for self-management, they're not replacements for proper medical guidance. Knowing when to consult with a healthcare professional is a critical part of managing blood sugar levels, particularly during illness. Seek immediate medical assistance if:
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High Blood Sugar Persists: Consistently high readings that don’t respond to standard treatment or result in symptoms of DKA or HHS. These states are characterized by excessive thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, or fruity-smelling breath.
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Low Blood Sugar is Severe: Severe hypoglycemic reactions, which could involve confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. In these events, someone else will need to assist as quick action is needed.
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Unexplained Readings: Significant changes or unpredictable readings that are concerning and not related to known factors, or you are unsure how to treat it. These may signal changes that require a medical intervention, a different diagnosis, or the need to review your medication schedule or type.
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Severe or Long-Lasting Illness: When symptoms worsen or persist for too long despite your best efforts.
Your healthcare provider can provide valuable support by:
- Customizing Your Plan: They can tailor your blood glucose monitoring frequency and targets to your individual needs, especially when you're ill. They will take into consideration many factors, such as age, overall health, medical history, medication interactions, any comorbidities, and unique personal needs.
- Medication Adjustments: Your provider might need to adjust the dose or type of insulin or other diabetes medications based on blood glucose levels that might result from illness.
- Reviewing Your Technique: They can evaluate if you're using your blood glucose meter correctly and suggest necessary adjustments.
- Long-term Management: Healthcare providers ensure your long-term care by offering support with diet, medication, lifestyle management, and providing regular checkups to ensure stability and control, thereby preventing serious and chronic complications.
| Situation | Recommended Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Persistently High Glucose | Seek immediate medical attention | Risk of DKA or HHS |
| Severe Hypoglycemia | Seek emergency help | Potential risk of coma and death |
| Unexplained Readings | Consult healthcare professional | Could indicate underlying health problems or required plan modification |
| Worsening/Persistent Illness | Consult healthcare provider | Need for updated/modified care plan, and may require more support |
By diligently using your blood glucose monitor and knowing when to seek medical assistance, you can better manage blood sugar levels effectively and ensure a speedy recovery, especially during illness. Remember that proactive management is always better than dealing with potential complications.
Read the article: doi.org/10.1007/s13410-019-00734-1 Mollentze et al., "The safety and efficacy of a low-energy diet to induce weight loss, improve metabolic blood sugar control tea fasting blood sugar value health, and induce diabetes remission in insulin-treated obese men with type 2 what to do if blood sugar is over 400 diabetes: a pilot RCT" International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries (2019). doi:10.1007/s13410-019-00734-1 Video produced by researchsquare.com