Self-monitoring and check-ups Dr Rob Hicks People with diabetes are taught how to monitor their own sugar levels regularly.

In this article

Blood glucose

After diagnosis

Self-monitoring has the benefits of:

• Helping to detect when blood sugar levels may be too low - called hypoglycaemia
• Keeping blood sugar levels under control at times of illness, when these levels tend to rise - called hyperglycaemia
• Giving an individual the confidence to be in control of their diabetes

People are encouraged to measure their blood glucose at different times during the day

Most people are encouraged to measure their blood glucose at different times during the day or week. This is done by obtaining a small blood sample by pricking the skin. The sample is placed on to a test strip, which is then read by an electronic glucose test meter.

For people with type 2 diabetes who may find this type of testing difficult (in particular older people), a nurse can help perform this reading. Under certain circumstances, urine testing is simpler and provides satisfactory results.

Once diabetes is diagnosed, it's very important to attend regular check-ups, at least annually, so the patient remains symptom-free and to prevent possible complications.

These check-ups will include:

• Blood tests to monitor the level of glucose in the blood, how well the diabetes has been controlled over the previous two to three months, cholesterol levels, and kidney function
• Blood pressure measurement
• Eye examinations, at least annually because diabetes can damage the back of the eyes (called retinopathy) but laser treatment can be used to treat this when it's caught early enough
• Examinations of the feet and nerves

People diagnosed with diabetes will see a dietician to be advised about a healthy diet and which foods are best for people with their condition.

They will also visit a chiropodist as good foot care is essential to prevent infections and ulcers developing, which may be slow to heal. Finally, patients will be allocated a diabetes specialist nurse.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Roger Henderson in January 2009.
First published in April 2001.