Blood sugar tests - why do we test our blood glucose levels?
Our blood glucose level is the measurement of the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is measured as millimoles per litre (mmol/l).
Blood glucose levels need to be stable. Blood glucose levels that are too low or too high can lead to serious complications.
People with diabetes need to test their blood glucose levels regularly. A doctor or diabetes educator will determine what time of day and how often a person should test their blood glucose level. We can test our blood glucose level with a blood glucose meter.
Some people need help monitoring blood glucose levels especially when they are unwell. If you are caring for someone with diabetes ask a diabetes educator to show you how to take a blood glucose level correctly.
Monitoring blood glucose levels is an essential part of diabetes management. By keeping track of blood glucose levels people with diabetes can see how the food they eat, the activity they do and any medication or lifestyle factors influence their overall health. Our blood glucose levels can even be influenced by stress, emotions and infection.
Doctors can also determine from blood glucose levels if they need to adjust a person's insulin levels or change medications to avoid the long-term complications of diabetes.
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