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Supplies and Tools for Managing Diabetes
By: Karen Newton
Managing the supplies and items needed to control diabetes on a daily basis can be frustrating and stressful. There are several new products out on the market to make your life simpler and less stressful when it comes to managing your diabetes and your diabetes supplies. Many of these items are not that expensive but are really time, health and energy saving in the long run.
Socks
Comfortable and supportive socks are important especially if you have high glucose levels. These elevated glucose levels can cause problems in the nerves of the feet and lead to issues with proper blood circulation. Using the correct socks will prevent damage by blisters or other abrasions to the feet and can help with increasing circulation and prevent swelling.
Blood Glucose Monitors
One of the most important tools for the management of diabetes a good, reliable blood glucose monitor is an essential for testing your sugar levels. Many monitor now offer painless testing that requires only a small fraction of the amount of blood that older monitors require. This is a real benefit to those individuals that have to test frequently.
In addition to monitors make sure you have the correct test strips for your monitor. Always try to have several weeks supply in advance in case of an emergency or difficulty in locating strips.
Blood pressure monitors
It is estimated that between twenty and sixty percent of all people with diabetes also have high blood pressure. If you are in this group it is important to consider having a blood pressure monitor handy to keep track of any changes in blood pressure due to diet, stress, medication changes or changes in routine.
Electronic blood pressure monitors are now available and they are as reliable and much easier to use than the traditional stethoscope blood pressure monitor.
Glucose gel and tablets
Glucose gels and tablets should be carried at all times, especially if the individual has type 1 diabetes. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur and it is critical to be able to have immediate access to either glucose tablets or gel. Glucose gel is faster acting than tablets as it is more readily absorbed by the body during hypoglycemia. Software
There are many inclusive and comprehensive diabetes software programs available on the market. These software programs allow the patient to monitor and track all data, as well as helping with food and menu planning. In addition to just tracking the data it can be shared via internet with your doctor or diabetes support team to keep up-to-date records at the click of a button.
Insulin cases
Insulin is very susceptible to changes in temperature, and can be difficult to travel with if the appropriate travel case is not available. Rather than having to restrict how far you can go, consider purchasing an insulin case or travel case to prevent excessive heating or cooling of your insulin supply.
Diabetes is a fact of life for many people. Having the correct and most up-to-date supplies can make managing diabetes easier, safer and more convenient.
Karen Newton is a registered nurse and acclaimed author with over 25 years of health care experience. Her newest book, Diabetic Diet Secrets, is an easy to follow guide to losing weight and getting control of your diabetes. Karen offers a free Diabetic Tips Course at http://www.diabeticdietsecrets.com/diabetictips.htm. |
