A new diabetes diagnosis or the worry that you may have the disease can bring up a lot of questions about your diet, continuing health, symptoms and medication. At Mercyhealth, we hope to provide some peace of mind.
Although diabetes it is a lifelong disease, careful management can slow its progression. Our diabetes care staff specializes in diagnosing, treating and providing follow-up care for conditions related to diabetes.
Our team of dedicated doctors, nurses, diabetes educators and support staff do everything we can to help you manage your condition. From diabetes prevention and management to care for complications, we strive to give you the support you need. We welcome you as our newest, most important team member.
How to check your blood sugar
You can find out your blood sugar level in 5 easy steps.
Testing your blood sugar, or blood glucose, is an important part of diabetes management. Follow these general steps to see how.*
*All blood glucose meters are different. Consult your meter's manual for specific instructions.
Step 1
Wash your hands and dry them thoroughly.
Step 2
Insert a test strip into your meter in the correct direction.
Step 3
Use a lancing device to prick the side of your fingertip to get a drop of blood.
Step 4
Hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood, and wait for the result.
Step 5
Log your result.
What to do with your numbers
Review your results regularly with your doctor to see if you need to adjust your management plan. Ask what your target ranges should be. The closer to normal your numbers, the lower your risk for complications.
Discover more facts and tips about diabetes here:
Sources: American Diabetes Association; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Sources
- American Diabetes Association. "The Big Picture: Checking Your Blood Glucose." https://diabetes.org/healthy-living/medication-treatments/blood-glucose-testing-and-control/checking-your-blood-sugar.
- FamilyDoctor.org. "Monitoring Your Blood Sugar Level." https://familydoctor.org/monitoring-your-blood-sugar-level/.
- MedlinePlus. "Diabetes Tests and Checkups." https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000082.htm.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. "Managing Diabetes." https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes?dkrd=/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes/know-blood-sugar-numbers.
Diabetes education program
Our certified diabetes educators help you find all of the answers. How can I manage my diabetes? What should I eat? What kind of prescriptions or insurance coverage will I require? Does my dad have diabetes? What if my child has diabetes?
Mercyhealth's certified diabetes educators can give you the tools to learn about the condition and understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Managing diabetes can be difficult for some people without support and education. A referral from your doctor is required to see a diabetes educator.
Make an appointment
To make an appointment, find a diabetes specialist or diabetes educator, or call 888.396.3729.