How To Check Blood Glucose Without Needles

If you ask people with diabetes what they dislike most about their disease, often the answer will be having to prick their finger to monitor their blood glucose levels. According to the US National Library of Medicine, "Regularly checking your blood sugar level is one of the most important steps you can take in managing the disease. It provides your doctor with important information regarding the control of your blood sugar." Fortunately, other ways to check your blood sugar levels are appearing on the market.

Instructions

• 1

  Check for current advances in monitoring devices. Currently, there are a few out on the market--infrared light monitor, skin testing and continuous glucose testing. The first one measures your glucose levels by penetrating your skin with a light, the second is like a watch with a special sensor pad, and the third uses a sensory pad placed under your skin. Both sensory pads will sound an alarm to alert you to your glucose levels.

• 2

  Consider disadvantages. You may not get accurate reading with the infrared light due to fluctuations such as body temperature and blood pressure. The watch may irritate your skin and does not work when you sweat. The third option costs between $1,00 and $2,000 and you need to move it periodically. None of the options are as accurate as the traditional way.

• 3

  Test run all to see which one works best for you. Maybe use two of them to ensure a more accurate reading.

• 4

  Try other skin sites with needles if none of the non-invasive products work for you. While you still will need to use a needle to reach the blood in your arm, abdomen or thigh, it will not be as painful as when you stick your finger tip. Most up-to-date monitors allow use of alternative test sites. If you have an older meter, you may have to upgrade.