Whenever you feel that your blood sugar reading is not accurate, it is advisable to do a control solution test on the next strip.
If the results of the solution test show that the strips are inaccurate, then immediately call the manufacturer of the meter, and tell them about the problem and ask them to send a new box of strips. Also from time to time do check the batteries of the meter, to make sure the meter functions properly.
The normal life of a good meter is usually between 3-5 years, and anything beyond this could effect the accuracy of the blood sugar readings. If the meter is beyond 5 years, consider replacing it with a new one.
Sometimes people tend to compare the readings between different meters to figure out the accuracy of there own meter. If they find a difference in the readings, then they assume that there meter may be faulty. This method of comparing is totally wrong.
Every meter has its own way of checking for glucose in the blood, some sample only the blood plasma, while others sample the whole blood. The ones that sample only the plasma will have different readings than the ones with whole blood sampler. It like comparing kilometers to miles, they both are measurement for distances, but are also different.
Another point is that, at home most of the readings are taken by the blood from your fingers, while those taken in a lab are from your veins. This difference of testing alone can cause a significant difference in your blood sugar readings.
Lastly it is important to consider, that readings taken at home and those taken in a doctors lab are taken at different timings and environments. It is important to remember that your blood sugar varies throughout the day and also by the stress levels caused by the environment around you. For example the stress of driving to your doctors lab through the traffic could significantly effect your readings.
In the end it is advisable that before you doubt the accuracy of your meter, and throw it away, wait for a day and see how the readings match on different days. If the next day also your blood sugar readings seems to be inaccurate, then instead of throwing away the meter, visit your doctor first and ask him for proper advice.
Quick Tip #1
Recent research has suggested that caffeine may be responsible of elevating blood sugar levels, especially after meals. Please consult your doctor on what you can have and what you cannot.
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Quick Tip #2
People who have type 2 diabetes should get involved in an exercise regimen. Exercising has also been know to help diabetic patients get rid of there medications.
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