diabetes SELF-Check blood glucose level

The selfcheck blood glucose test is used to check if your blood glucose levels are within the normal limits.

The blood glucose level is the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is also known as serum glucose level. It is expressed in millimoles per litre (mmol/L).

Normally, blood glucose levels stay within narrow limits throughout the day but they are higher after meals and usually lowest in the morning.

In diabetes, the blood sugar level moves outside these limits until treated. Even with good control of diabetes, the blood sugar level will still, at times, drift outside this normal range.

Each pack contains:

• Two test strips
• Two colour charts
• 2 lancets
• 2 plasters
• Instructions for use

To obtain optimum results, you should carry out the test on an empty stomach (no food or drink 12 hours prior to testing)

The levels indicated in the results are valid in the morning and before meals. Meals usually raise sugar levels temporarily and can affect the results. In the evening, glucose levels are naturally slightly raised to about 8mmol/L

Results are visible after 2 minutes

• High blood glucose levels can lead to Diabetes
• Our everyday diet is rich in sugars, mostly due to processed food
• Diabetes affects 2 million people in the UK and the trend is rising
• Diabetes could lead to other conditions including problems with blood vessels, kidneys and eyesight

• Everyone, but its strongly recommended in adults aged 40 and over
• Strongly recommended for those suffering with high cholesterol, as their risk of artherosclerosis (hardening of arteries) may be increased with Diabetes. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body. Atherosclerosis is a common cause of heart attack and stroke.

It depends on your lifestyle - the level of physical activity, diet or any medical conditions such as high cholesterol etc. Healthy individuals would benefit from an annual check.

• In all cases, you should consult your GP
• Do not make any medical decisions without consulting your GP

• The test provides a fast and reliable estimate of the level of glucose in the blood
• Simple, easy to follow instructions
• Complete home test - no need to send off for results
• Provides an early detection of potential high blood glucose level
• There is no danger from any of the test components, provided they are used according to the instructions
• Accuracy 97.9% when compared to laboratory based tests

SELFCheck blood glucose test instructions