Millions of people around the world have diabetes, a disease that affects how the body uses blood sugar. There are several different types of diabetes, each with its own unique set of symptoms and management challenges. Regardless of the type of diabetes you have, if left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right treatment and care, people with diabetes can live long, healthy lives.
One important part of managing diabetes is making sure you have the right supplies and equipment. Here are some of the top products you should buy if you are struggling with this health condition:
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Compression Socks
Compression socks are a type of medical device that helps to treat symptoms of neuropathy and peripheral artery disease (PAD) caused by diabetes. The compression socks work by providing gentle compression to the feet and lower legs, which helps to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. The socks are typically made from a stretchy material that is comfortable to wear, and they can be purchased in a variety of sizes to fit most people.
There are many benefits to wearing compression socks, including reducing pain, improving circulation, and preventing further damage to the feet and legs. You can find both diabetic socks for women and men easily online or in stores that sell medical supplies. Just make sure to get the right size and type of sock for your needs.
It is also important to consult with a doctor before starting to wear them, especially if you suffer from certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or kidney disease, as the socks may in some cases worsen these conditions.
A Glucometer
A glucometer is a medical device used to measure the blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Since blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day, it’s important to have a reliable glucometer on hand at all times. Blood sugar levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The higher the blood sugar level, the greater the risk of developing complications from diabetes. A glucometer can help you track your blood sugar levels so that you can better manage your diabetes.
There are many different types of glucometers available on the market today, and each one has its own set of features, so it’s important to find one that is right for you. For instance, some glucometers are more compact and portable than others, making them easier to carry with you on the go. Others come equipped with features like a built-in lancing device for taking blood samples or a large display screen that makes it easier to read your results.
Test Strips
To use a glucometer, you will also need test strips. Test strips are small, narrow strips of paper that are used to absorb and measure a small drop of blood. The blood is then applied to the test strip, which is inserted into the glucometer. The machine will then provide a reading of your blood sugar level based on the amount of sugar in the blood sample.
Test strips can be purchased over-the-counter or through a prescription from your doctor. It’s important to use the type of test strip that is compatible with your specific glucometer. Most test strip brands will have a chart on their packaging that lists the different types of glucometers that their strips work with. Once you’ve found the right test strips for your glucometer, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully to get an accurate reading.
Insulin
If you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, you will likely need to take insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use and store sugar (glucose) properly. People with diabetes cannot produce enough insulin on their own, so they must take it either through injections or an insulin pump.
There are many different types of insulin available, and your doctor will work with you to find the best option for your individual needs. Insulin can be short-acting, long-acting, or a combination of both. Short-acting insulin works quickly to lower blood sugar levels after meals, while long-acting insulin provides a more steady level of insulin throughout the day. Before starting any new type of insulin, be sure to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and side effects.
Glucagon Emergency Kit
If you take insulin, it’s important to have a glucagon emergency kit on hand in case of a severe drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Glucagon is a hormone that helps raise blood sugar levels. A glucagon emergency kit comes with a pre-filled syringe of glucagon and instructions on how to use it. It is important to know how to use the kit before an emergency arises. Make sure to keep the kit in an easily accessible place, such as your purse or backpack, so that you can get to it quickly if needed.
You can easily find a glucagon emergency kit at your local pharmacy or online. Just be sure to check that the kit is within its expiration date and that the syringe is properly sealed before using it.
Continuous Glucose Monitor
A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a device that is worn on the body and used to measure blood sugar levels in real time. A CGM consists of a sensor that is inserted just under the skin, a transmitter that sends data to a display device, and a small computer that stores the data. The sensor measures blood sugar levels every few minutes and sends the data to the transmitter. The transmitter then relays the data to the display device, which can be worn on the wrist or clipped to clothing. The display device will show you your current blood sugar level as well as any trends over time.
CGMs are often used by people who have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes. However, they can also be used by people with gestational diabetes or prediabetes. If you are interested in using a CGM, talk to your doctor about the different types of devices that are available and which one would be right for you.
Blood Sugar Log Book
A blood sugar logbook is used to track blood sugar levels over time. It is important to track blood sugar levels because it can help you and your doctor identify patterns and make changes to your treatment plan if necessary. A blood sugar logbook typically has space to record fasting blood sugar levels, pre-meal blood sugar levels, post-meal blood sugar levels, and bedtime blood sugar levels. Some logbooks also have space to record other information such as insulin doses, exercise, and food intake. This information can be used to help identify patterns and make necessary changes to your diabetes management plan.
Even though diabetes is a serious condition, if you manage to keep it under control you can live a very normal, healthy life. The most important thing is to work closely with your healthcare team and follow their recommendations. Be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of exercise. By taking these steps, and having all the essentials mentioned above, you can help prevent complications from diabetes and enjoy a long, healthy life.
