In the current scenario, health management has become more accessible and effective thanks to technological advances. For those dealing with conditions like diabetes, monitoring blood glucose levels is vital to maintaining health and preventing complications. This article discusses how you can use apps available on Google Play and the Apple App Store to control your glucose levels.
The Importance of Monitoring Glucose
Maintaining blood glucose levels within healthy parameters is essential for people with diabetes. Inadequate control can result in hypoglycemia (low glucose) or hyperglycemia (high glucose), both of which have the potential to cause acute symptoms and long-term health problems such as damage to the nerves, kidneys, and heart.
How to Monitor Glucose
There are several ways to monitor blood glucose levels:
Blood Glucose Meters: These devices provide instant readings of glucose levels using a small blood sample obtained by a finger prick. There are a variety of meters available, from simple ones to advanced ones that connect to mobile apps for tracking and data analysis.
Continuous Glucose Sensors: Used mainly by people with diabetes, these devices offer continuous monitoring of glucose levels throughout the day. The sensor inserted under the skin measures glucose in interstitial fluid, transmitting the data to a receiver or mobile app.
Hemoglobin A1c Tests: These tests measure average glucose levels over two to three months, being useful for assessing long-term glycemic control and frequently used by healthcare professionals to monitor diabetes.
Applications for Glucose Monitoring
Mobile technology offers several tools to help with glucose monitoring. Let's explore some of the best apps available for Android and iOS devices:
Glucose Buddy (Android, iOS): It allows users to track glucose levels, diet, medication, and physical activity, and offers analytics and graphing features to track trends over time.
mySugr (Android, iOS): Simplifies tracking glucose levels by allowing you to record glucose readings, meals, activities and mood. Offers personalized tips and reminders to help with control.
Sugar Sense (iOS): Provides easy and intuitive recording of glucose levels, allowing you to view readings in graphs and share data with doctors and family members, if desired.
Common questions
How often should I measure my glucose?
The ideal frequency varies for each person, depending on the type of diabetes, glycemic control and medical recommendations. Generally, people with type 1 diabetes need to measure several times a day, while those with type 2 diabetes can measure less frequently, depending on their glycemic control.
What is the range of blood glucose considered normal?
The normal fasting glucose range is generally between 70 and 100 mg/dL. After meals, levels may rise temporarily but should return to normal within a few hours.
What are the symptoms of high or low blood glucose levels?
Symptoms of high glucose may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and blurred vision. Symptoms of low glucose can include shakiness, sweating, intense hunger and confusion.
What are the complications associated with long-term high blood glucose levels?
High glucose levels over time can increase your risk of complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney, eye and foot problems.
