It may surprise you to learn that nearly 40 million Americans have diabetes. Part of managing this condition includes accurately measuring blood glucose on a regular basis. To achieve this, people use a continuous glucose monitor to obtain accurate readings.
Finding the right continuous blood glucose monitor can seem overwhelming at first. We’ve created a guide that outlines key information you need to know. Let’s explore how to choose the best device for glucose monitoring.
Check Past Reviews
This is one of the easiest ways to find the right device. You should focus on glucose monitors that have overwhelmingly positive feedback. This will help ensure that you get the best possible results.
You should also research the provider. Look for major controversies they might have been involved in. For example, you might discover that the prospective provider had to recall thousands of faulty units.
The more time you spend researching, the easier it will be to make the right decision. Consider their level of customer service, as well. They should be willing to help you resolve issues that may arise with the product.
Usability
You won’t be able to get full value out of your monitor if you have trouble using it. Monitor interfaces should be intuitive and easy to navigate so you can quickly locate the information you need. In context, the menus should be sleek and easy to look at.
Otherwise, you’ll be left with a clunky device that takes longer than it should to use effectively. It’s in your best interest to extensively research the usability of a monitor you’re considering. This will save you plenty of headaches later on.
Integration With Other Devices
Many glucose monitors can pair with other devices. One of the most notable scenarios involves pairing a monitor with a smartphone to check your data from your phone instead of the monitor itself. Not only is this highly convenient, but it provides a more pleasant way to look through data.
Since you’ll be more familiar with using your phone than a glucose monitor, you can quickly find what you’re looking for. However, you should make sure that the app you use to connect to the monitor doesn’t have issues. You could run into problems if there are frequent crashes, usability concerns, etc.
Access to Analytics
The device you choose should provide you with access to comprehensive analytics. This is crucial to consider, as it can help pinpoint trends that need your attention. For instance, this data might allow you to discover strange variations in glucose levels that you would have otherwise been unaware of.
You can then show this information to a medical professional for more insight. The more information the monitor provides, the better. This will help you make better lifestyle choices, and it can help eliminate bad habits that impact your glucose levels.
Talk to Your Doctor
Many people aren’t quite sure where to start. Talking to your doctor can help point you in the right direction, as they have plenty of resources they can provide. They might even be able to recommend specific brands. In many cases, this can substantially reduce the amount of time you spend searching for the right option.
Your doctor can also help you determine your goals. You might not need access to an abundance of features when choosing glucose monitors. Or, you may have specific needs that require a specialized device. Either way, they can help put you on the right track.
You can order most devices online. Check out this page to learn more about how to get started with Medicare diabetic supplies mail order.
Price
When it comes to glucose monitors, you typically get what you pay for. Options on the lower end of the price range are ones you should avoid.
They won’t have as many features, and they may be prone to complications. The last thing you want is to choose a monitor that has a high chance of being defective. However, you don’t always have to spend as much money as possible.
There is a point of diminishing returns as you climb toward the other end of the price range. In fact, the most expensive options don’t always have much to offer over choices that are more affordable.
In general, a monitor in the middle of the price range will be your best bet. This will give you a good balance of utility value for the money that you spend.
Accuracy
You should never overlook accuracy when making your decision. Numbers that are even slightly off could have serious consequences. For example, let’s assume that a glucose monitor constantly provided inaccurate readings. This could lead the user to assume that there weren’t any underlying issues.
In reality, there could be problems that need immediate attention. Reputable brands are proud to showcase the accuracy of their monitors.
You shouldn’t have trouble finding the necessary information. Keep this in mind when moving forward so you can find an accurate device that will help you detect problems as soon as possible.
Find a Continuous Blood Glucose Monitor
Consider the above information during your search for a continuous blood glucose monitor. This will help ensure that you get the best possible results and avoid complications you may have otherwise encountered.
