Diabetes self-monitoring and check-ups

Blood glucose level monitoring

Self-monitoring has the benefits of:

• Helping to detect when blood sugar levels may be too low, which is called hypoglycaemia, or when medication is no longer effective and levels are starting to rise.
• Keeping blood sugar levels under control at times of illness, when these levels tend to rise, leading to hyperglycaemia.
• Giving an individual the confidence to be in control of their diabetes.

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.

After a diagnosis of diabetes

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, including one called an HbA1c which shows how well the diabetes has been controlled over the previous two to three months, cholesterol levels, and kidney function.
• Weight and blood pressure measurement.
• Eye examinations, at least annually because diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina at 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 their condition.

The clear benefits of regular exercise in controlling sugar levels will be explained

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.