How Does Blood Glucose Meter for Home Work?

If you have diabetes, you'll likely need a blood glucose meter to measure and display the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood. Exercise, food, medications, stress and other factors affect your blood glucose level. Using a blood glucose meter can help you better manage your diabetes by tracking any fluctuations in your blood glucose level.

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Many types of blood glucose meters are available, from basic models to more-advanced meters with multiple features and options. The cost of blood glucose meters and test strips varies, as does insurance coverage. Study your options before deciding which model to buy.

Choosing the right meter

When selecting a blood glucose meter, it can help to know the basics of how they work. To use most blood glucose meters, you first insert a test strip into the device. Then with a special needle, you poke a clean fingertip to get a drop of blood. You carefully touch the test strip to the blood and wait for a blood glucose reading to appear on the screen.

When used and stored properly, blood glucose meters are generally accurate in how they measure glucose. They differ in the type and number of features they offer. Here are several factors to consider when choosing a blood glucose meter:

• Insurance coverage. Check with your insurance provider for coverage details. Some insurance providers limit coverage to specific models or limit the total number of test strips allowed.
• Cost. Meters vary in price. Be sure to factor in the cost of the test strips, as these will represent the majority of the cost in the long term.
• Ease of use. Some meters are easier to use than others. Are both the meter and test strips comfortable and easy to hold? Can you easily see the numbers on the screen? How easy is it to get blood onto the strips? How much blood is required?
• Special features. Ask about the features to see what meets your specific needs. Special features may include large, easy-to-handle buttons and test strips, illuminated screens, and audio, which may be useful for people with impaired vision.
• Information storage and retrieval. Consider how the meter stores and retrieves information. Some can track time and date of a test, the result, and trends over time. Some meters offer the ability to share your readings in real time with your healthcare provider with a smartphone app. Or some may offer the option to download your blood glucose readings to a computer, then the test results to your doctor.
• Support. Most meter manufacturers include a toll-free number that you can call for help. Look for a meter that includes clear instructions that demonstrate the correct way to use the meter. Some manufacturers offer users manuals on their websites.

Advances in monitoring tools

Although finger pokes remain the gold standard for blood sugar monitoring, researchers have developed products designed to take the pain out of the process and continue to develop new products. Ask your healthcare provider about these alternatives.

Device How it works Considerations Alternative site monitor Allows blood samples to be taken from areas likely to be less painful than your finger, such as your arm, the palm of your hand or your thigh Not as accurate as fingertip samples when blood sugar level is rising or falling quickly Continuous glucose monitor Uses a sensor placed under the skin to measure blood sugar level; transmits each reading to a smartphone, smartwatch or small recording device worn on your body; gives an alert when blood sugar levels are too low or too high Expensive; requires sensor to be replaced every 7 to 14 days, depending on the brand; may need to check blood sugar level with a traditional monitor to confirm readings and to program the device

If you've looked at the costs, features and other considerations and are still unsure which blood glucose meter to buy, ask your doctor or certified diabetes care and education specialist for a recommendation.

See more In-depth

Blood glucose monitoring is an essential tool for managing diabetes. It helps identify how your blood sugar levels respond to factors such as diet, exercise, and medications so you can change your diabetes management plan as needed.

Checking your blood sugar level is one of the best ways to understand your diabetes. It helps you identify and track how different foods, medications, and activities affect your glucose levels.

Keeping track of your blood glucose levels over time can also help you and your doctor make any necessary adjustments to your diabetes management plan.

Here’s everything you need to know in order to get started.

Most people who have diabetes use portable blood glucose meters called glucometers to check their blood sugar levels. These meters work by analyzing a small amount of blood, usually from a fingertip.

A lancet (tiny needle) lightly pricks your skin to obtain the blood, and a meter tells you your current blood sugar level. But because blood sugar levels change, you need to check your levels often and record them.

You can get blood glucose monitoring kits and supplies from:

• your doctor’s office
• a diabetes educator’s office
• a pharmacy
• online stores

You can discuss the price with your doctor or pharmacist. Glucose meters come with testing strips, lancets to prick your finger, and a device to hold the needle. The kit may include a logbook, or you might be able to download the readings onto your computer.

Meters vary in cost and size. Some have added features to suit different needs and preferences. These may include:

• audio capabilities for people with low or no vision
• backlit screens that are easier to read in low light
• additional memory or data storage
• preloaded test strips for people who have difficulty using their hands
• USB ports to load information directly onto a computer

Before checking your blood glucose levels, make sure you have:

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• a finger-stick device, such as a lancet, to prick your finger
• an alcohol swab to sterilize the puncture site
• a blood glucose monitor
• a bandage in case bleeding continues beyond a few drops

Also, depending on the type of test you’re taking and your doctor’s instructions, you may need to adjust your medication or meal schedule or schedule the test around these factors.

Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent infection at the finger-prick site. If you use alcohol wipes instead of washing, be sure to let the site dry before testing.

Next, put a testing strip into the meter. Prick your finger with the lancet to get a small drop of blood. To decrease the discomfort in your finger, you can use the side of your fingertip instead of the tip.

Apply some blood to the test strip you inserted into the meter. Your meter will analyze the blood and give you the blood glucose reading on its digital display, usually within a minute.

Finger pricks rarely require a bandage, but you may want to use one if bleeding continues beyond a few drops. It’s important to follow all the instructions that come with your glucometer to ensure accurate results.

If you have type 1 diabetes, you may need to test your blood glucose four or more times per day, including before and after meals and exercise. You may need to test more often when you are sick.

If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, your doctor will let you know when and how often to test your blood glucose.

According to the American Diabetes Association, most adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who are not pregnant should aim for blood sugar levels in the following ranges:

TimeRecommended blood sugar rangefasting (before a meal)80–130 mg/dL1–2 hours after a mealless than 180 mg/dL

But these are general guidelines and are not for everyone. Ask your doctor about your individual target levels.

Regular blood glucose monitoring is an essential tool to help you manage your diabetes. By identifying and recording changes in your blood sugar levels, you’ll have more information about how food, exercise, stress, and other factors affect your diabetes.

Regular glucose monitoring is one way you can learn more about your diabetes. When it’s time to make important decisions about medication dosage, exercise, and diet, knowing your blood glucose levels will be helpful to you and your healthcare team.

By checking your blood glucose levels routinely, you’ll also know when your blood sugar is too high or too low, either of which can cause symptoms and serious health problems.

Your doctor will calculate your target blood glucose range based on your age, your type of diabetes, your overall health, and other factors. It’s important to keep your glucose levels within your target range as best as you can.

Complications of high and low blood sugar levels

Without proper treatment, high blood sugar levels can lead to long-term complications such as:

• heart disease
• nerve damage
• vision problems
• poor blood flow
• kidney disease

• confusion
• weakness
• dizziness
• jitters
• sweating
• palpitations (fast heartbeat)

Regular blood glucose monitoring is a way to gather information about how your blood sugar levels respond to your day-to-day activities. These readings can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your diabetes management plan.

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