Monitoring your blood glucose level is an important part of diabetes management. A blood test for diabetes can track a patient's progress in a day or over a few months. In addition to controlling your blood sugar, a diabetic blood test may also help prevent diabetes complications.

Diabetics monitor their blood sugar using two blood tests: a daily blood test and a periodic A1c test. Daily self-monitoring ensures that your blood sugar remains stable throughout the day. The average diabetic tests his/her blood glucose between 2 to 4 times per day; however, your testing needs may vary. It's important to test your blood sugar at different times of the day. This will help you track the ebb and flow of glucose in your blood.

At the heart of the diabetic blood test is the blood glucose meter, a portable, battery-powered device for home monitoring. The meter requires a drop of blood from your finger tip, upper arm or thigh. Using a testing strip, it then shows the level of blood glucose in a digital window display. In order to receive an accurate reading, testing strips must be compatible with the monitor; you should also not reuse a test strip or use one that's expired. Most modern meters possess a large memory, allowing you to store the results for your diabetes blood test.

In addition to needing a blood glucose monitor and test strips, diabetics also need control solution and a lancing device. The control solution is used to make sure the glucose monitor and testing strips are working properly. A lancing device draws the blood needed for the test. The goal is to get enough blood for a sample without too much discomfort. If you're sensitive to pain, you can purchase a lancing device with a special tip designed to reduce the sensation. With the right diabetes supplies, you'll be more likely to test regularly throughout the day.

When testing your blood sugar, you should aim for certain readings. For instance, you should receive a reading of 80 to 120 before meals. Your blood glucose should be less than 160 to 180 an hour or two after you've eaten. When you check your blood sugar at bedtime, you should have a reading of 100 to 140. Checking your glucose at various times can show you how food, physical activity, medication, and stress affect your diabetes.

Although a daily diabetes blood test helps control your blood sugar from morning till night, an A1c blood test reflects how your lifestyle affects your diabetes. An A1c test is typically given 2 to 4 times a year by your doctor. The test measures your blood sugar over 2 to 3 months, providing valuable information about how well your diabetes is being controlled. With the help of this test, your doctor may suggest modifying your diabetes management plan. Both blood tests are instrumental in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you skip periodic A1c tests or fail to check your blood sugar every day, you may be causing serious damage to your health.

Regardless of how inconvenient or painful blood testing may be, it should be a priority for those living with diabetes. With the help of daily blood glucose testing and A1c tests, you can set long-term health goals. If you're interested in learning more about a blood test for diabetes, your doctor can provide you with additional information.