Did you know there may be as many as one million undiagnosed Type 2 diabetics (non-insulin-dependent) in the UK?
Why is the blood glucose test important?
Diabetes is one of the most prevalent medical conditions globally, with more than 5.5 million in the UK predicted to have diabetes by 2030.
High levels of glucose in the blood that are untreated over the long term can not only cause damage to the blood vessels but also lead to impaired eyesight, kidney failure, nerve damage, erectile dysfunction and poor wound healing. It can also lead to a significantly higher risk of cardiac arrest and strokes.
The blood glucose test offered by Test2Go is a reliable and straightforward home test to check whether your blood sugar is in the normal range.
What is the normal range for blood sugar?
The fasting blood glucose level is between 3.9 and 6.1 mmol/L (70 and 100 mg. dL).
How is the at-home blood glucose test performed?
Everything you need to perform the blood glucose test is included in the test kit box.
All you need to do is prick your finger with the single-use lancet enclosed and apply one drop of blood to the test strip.
When should the blood glucose test be performed?
The blood glucose test should be performed on an empty stomach, and you should not have had anything to eat or drink for the 12 hours before the test is carried out for the best results.
For the most accurate results, you should take the test first thing in the morning.
It is good to check the test results in a good light source to interpret the colour variations better.
What is included in the blood glucose test kit?
When you order the blood glucose test kit from Test2Go, you will receive a box containing all of the equipment you need to perform the test, including:
- two test strips
- two sterile single-use lancets
- one colour chart
- instruction leaflet
You will also require a clock or watch with a second hand or timer and a clean tissue.
How do I read and interpret the blood glucose test result?
Once the test has been completed, you should immediately compare the colours on the test fields to the colour chart – in good lighting to get an accurate result.
Your blood glucose value is below the chosen colour fields in mmol/L or mg/dL.
If you find it difficult to determine the matching colour fields, apply the principle of elimination. Determine which colour fields do not match until only the corresponding fields are left.
The unit used in the UK for blood glucose is mmol/L.
A normal result for adults and children above the age of 7 is between 3.9mmol/L and 6.1mmol. If your test result indicates this, then you should use the second test a few days or weeks later to confirm the result.
If your test result is clearly below 3.9mmol/L or above 6.1mmol/L, then your blood sugar is outside of the normal range, and you should let your doctor know the result.
If the test areas do not change colour to brown/green or blue, the test is invalid.
If you suspect your blood glucose levels are not in the normal range, it is essential to get to the bottom of it. Order your simple home test kit from Test2Go to check whether your overall blood glucose level is within normal limits.
Important note: Using this test is not a substitute for regular medical checkups with your doctor. Always speak with your doctor before making any critical medical decisions.
Our test is for advisory purposes only. It is not a medical diagnosis.
NB. It is important to note that our tests are not a substitute for seeing a doctor, particularly if you have symptoms. It would help if you did not make a diagnosis or start any treatment without a consultation with a doctor or a suitably trained health professional.
References
- Diabetes UK – Checking your blood sugar levels
- Diabetes.co.uk – Blood sugar level ranges
- NHS – Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)
