Blood glucose
monitors and data management systems
Managing
diabetes has become easier as technology improves.
Blood glucose meters for home testing were a major
leap ahead for diabetics, and now data management
systems make diabetes management more precise and
easier.
What
is a data management system?
When you
test your blood glucose levels, a data management
system records and can store hundreds of your test
results and in some instances much more detailed data.
This could include logging the date and time of your
tests, the type and dosage of insulin, and the amount
and type of exercise. As broadband becomes more widespread,
more systems allow you to upload data to your doctor.
Your healthcare team can then use this info to improve
your treatment regime.
What
other advantages do data management systems offer?
The data
produced can then be transferred to a computer and
plotted into graph form. Doing so allows the patient
to clearly see how their blood glucose management
is progressing. The patient, with the aid of a healthcare
team or GP, can then see at a glance where they are
going wrong with their control.
What
should I record using my data management system?
You should
decide with your doctor what needs to be recorded
before buying a data management unit. Some doctors
will want to see glucose values, dates and times.
However, other doctors may wish to see information
about exercise, diet or dosage of insulin.
What
potential problems are there with data management
systems?
Compatibility
issues do arise from time to time, so always make
sure that the data management system you buy is compatible
with both your computer and the computer owned by
your doctor. Some data management systems are easier
to use than others. The cost of data management systems
can also be prohibitive, so they are not for everyone.
