What Is A Blood Glucose Meter And Why Do I Need A Free One?
For diabetics a glucose meter can literally be a lifesaver. The proper use of a meter allows the user to avoid both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The need to keep glucose in balance is vital to effectively managing the disease. Hyperglycemia A single instance of high blood sugar may not be cause for undue alarm. However, when blood sugars remain high for an extended period of time in a diabetic the following symptoms often show up. • Skin infections • Slow-healing cuts and sores • Decreased vision • Nerve damage causing painful cold or insensitive feet, loss of hair on the lower extremities, and/or erectile dysfunction • Stomach and intestinal problems such as chronic constipation or diarrhea (Source: WebMD) Hypoglycemia Low blood sugar can be problematic for diabetics simply because it provides a profound sense of lethargy. Consider these side effects of hypoglycemia. • fatigue • insomnia • mental confusion • nervousness • mood swings • faintness