Glucometer: the best guarantee for monitoring and maintaining health

In the modern world, the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is not a sentence for a person. You don't have to spend a lot of time in clinics or laboratories to live a full life. You can control your sugar level yourself, at home, if you purchase a high-quality glucometer in accordance with the necessary needs.

What is a glucometer, how does it work

This is a special device that helps measure blood sugar. People with diabetes have to do such a procedure regularly, throughout their lives. A medical device for home use is a unique opportunity to maintain well-being and monitor health indicators. The device helps to quickly and almost painlessly measure the sugar level on your own, without the help of a specialist. One drop of blood, exposure to special chemical elements - an accurate result in 5-30 seconds at home.

The design of the meter includes:

• blades - scarifiers to make a puncture of the skin for blood sampling;
• electronics with a display for showing data, storing them, tracking dynamics;
• power supply: batteries of appropriate size, battery;
• test strips or cassettes with chemical reagents for analysis.

The meter works according to the following algorithm:

• a test strip or cassette is inserted into the device;
• pierce the pad of the finger with a special blade, designed for a fountain pen, and apply a drop or two of blood to the test strip;
• a reaction of blood elements with a chemical reagent occurs on the test strip, the result is displayed on the display screen: an indicator below or above the permissible level may be accompanied by a sound signal.

When is it advisable to purchase a sugar meter

A blood glucose meter is purchased in the following cases:

• If a person is already in childhood or young age depends on insulin. For such a category, you need an accurate, compact, automatic, lightweight, fast in result, long-lasting charging device. It is desirable to have a convenient scarifier with an adjustable blade length.
• If a person is sick, but does not experience insulin dependence. In this case, it is desirable to have a multifunctional device that, in addition to measuring glucose levels, will show the amount of cholesterol, pulse or pressure.
• If a person is healthy, but carefully monitors his health. In this case, it is not necessary to buy an expensive device. Budget enough, test plates will be consumed slowly, they will last for a long time, regardless of the price there will be savings.
• If an elderly person has diabetes, he needs constant monitoring. The device for the procedure should be simple, understandable, with a minimum of indicators and buttons, have automatic adjustment, large numbers on a wide screen.Test strips should be readily available, inexpensive.

Types of blood glucose meters

Medical devices for measuring sugar are distinguished according to the measurement method of the following types:

1. Photometric evaluates the result of blood color after reaction with a chemical;
2. Optical measures the level of concentration of carbohydrates;
3. Photochemical evaluates the chemical reaction itself and its intensity;
4. Electrochemical affects the test strip with electrical impulses;
5. Non-invasive blood pressure measurement;
6. Romansky measures the glucose content of the skin;
7. The laser makes punctures with a beam, thanks to which it receives and transmits sugar indicators to the display;
8. The non-contact works without punctures, acting on infrared radiation.

 Which device to choose for home use

When choosing a device for personal use, you must consider the main criteria:

• First, the type of diabetes. If a person needs to perform the procedure more than 4 times a day, he needs a device with inexpensive test plates that will be quickly consumed. In this case, it is important to have a memory device and an alarm clock - a reminder. It is better to purchase a compact, lightweight model that is convenient to use outside the home.
• Secondly, the age of the patient. Children do not like to donate blood for tests, daily procedures with painful punctures of the same fingers are the first causes of nervous stress and anxiety, both for the child and the parents. It is also difficult for older people to measure sugar. Rough or, conversely, too sensitive skin causes increased excitement, a rise in blood pressure, and increases pain. Too many buttons, indicators, also complicates the independent measurement.
• Third, the state of health. If the user is visually impaired, he needs a large clear display with large characters, sound signals, and backlighting.
• Fourth, the place of use. If the meter is needed on a long trip or travel, you need to make sure that the complete set includes high-quality long-lasting batteries or rechargeable batteries.
• Fifth, customization. Automatic coding makes the device easier to use. Not everyone can independently configure an electronic device.
• Sixth, the parameters. A multifunctional glucometer can measure, in addition to sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and pulse. Having received so many indicators, you can take the medicine in a timely manner, adjust the dosage, track the dynamics of the ongoing reactions in the body. But, on the other hand, many functions can be confusing or have measurement errors. Popular are models with a minimum of buttons and sensors, understandable and simple to people of any age.
• Seventh, the price of the device. Low-cost models are available to almost every buyer, but saving on the device, you need to make sure of its reliability, as well as the availability of inexpensive components. Sometimes test plates for cheap blood glucose meters are much more expensive than the device itself. Such savings are impractical.
• Eighth, a guarantee. The quality of the product is guaranteed only by trusted companies specialized in the manufacture of electronic products for special purposes.

An overview of the best blood glucose meters

Accu-Chek Performa Combo

The device is made in Germany, innovative type. Features: color screen, and even backlit, Russian language, the presence of an alarm clock, the ability to connect to a personal computer or smartphone. In addition to the function of a glucometer, it is a remote control for controlling an insulin pump, if available. Average cost: 30,000 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	automatic
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	5 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.6 μl
6	Weight	103 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	94x55x25 mm
8	Battery type	3 AAA
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	250 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Accu-Chek Mobile

The device is of German quality from Roche, with modern equipment and design. A distinctive feature is that the test strips are replaced by a cassette designed for 50 procedures. The package includes a lancing device, a USB cable that connects the device to a PC. Instructions in Russian. There is a reminder alarm. Average cost: 4140 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	photometric
2	Coding	not required
3	Calibrating the result	by blood
4	Test time	5 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.3 μl
6	Weight	129 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	121x63x20 mm
8	Battery type	2 AAA
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	2000 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

OneTouch Select Simple

American-made model, compact, small size, lightweight. The kit contains an adjustable handle for finger punctures. A minimum of indicators, numbers, there is a sound warning. Average cost: 1100 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	not required
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	5 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	1 μl
6	Weight	43 g
7	Device dimensions (LxWxT)	86x51x15.50 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	not
10	Automatic shutdown	there is

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Bioptik Technology (EasyTouch GCHb)

Multifunctional device that measures blood sugar, cholesterol, hemoglobin. A convenient model for people who need constant monitoring of various health indicators. Large clear measurement results on the screen. A minimum of buttons and elements. Popular in medical centers for quick examination of the main indicators of the patient. Average cost: 4990 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Determination of cholesterol level	there is
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	6 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.8 μl
6	Weight	59 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	88x64x22 mm
8	Battery type	2 AAA
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	200 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Contour TS

The device is made in Germany, without coding, modern design, it is possible to analyze information in a computer. Average cost: 990 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	not required
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	8 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.6 μl
6	Weight	56.7 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	71x60x19 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	250 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Accu-Chek Active

German-made model. A distinctive feature is that at a budgetary cost, it is possible to take blood from several parts of the body. For example: finger, shoulder, palm, leg and others. This enables sugar control for people of all ages. The model is popular among visually impaired users due to its large symbols. Average cost: 760 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	not required
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	6 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.7 μl
6	Weight	56 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	99x62x20 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	250 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Accu-Chek Performa Nano

The device is manufactured by Germany. The device is lightweight, compact, and highly accurate. Allows sampling from any less sensitive area of ​​the skin, which helps to reduce pain discomfort. It has an alarm clock, average counting function, a note about food intake. Average cost: 1650 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	automatic
3	Calibrating the result	by blood
4	Test time	5 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	0.6 μl
6	Weight	40 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	69x43x20 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	500 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Satellite Express

Domestic device. A unique difference is the self-selection of the desired drop of blood. Has become widespread not only at home, but also in medical centers. Average cost: 1330 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	automatic
3	Calibrating the result	by blood
4	Test time	7 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	1 μl
6	Weight	60 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	97x53x16 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	60 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Satellite Plus (PKG-02.4)

The device is made in Russia. A convenient model for users at an age when they need time to concentrate, take measurements carefully without haste. In the presence of lancets in the amount of 25 pieces, a storage bag, memory, auto shut-off. Average cost: 1180 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	manual
3	Calibrating the result	by blood
4	Test time	20 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	4 μl
6	Weight	70 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	110x60x25 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	60 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Diacont

The device is made in Russia, the leader in the "favorable price" nomination. Simple, easy to use, does not require coding, has good technical characteristics. The instruction is in Russian. Average cost: 576 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	automatic
3	Calibrating the result	by blood
4	Test time	7 seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	1 μl
6	Weight	60 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	97x53x16 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	60 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Clever Chek TD-4209

The manufacturer of the blood glucose meter is Taiwan. The device has good technical characteristics, small size, lightweight, instructions in Russian, there is a cable for connecting to a personal computer, large numbers are displayed on the display. Average cost: 1223 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	electrochemical
2	Coding	automatic
3	Calibrating the result	on plasma
4	Test time	10 Seconds
5	Blood volume per measurement	2 μl
6	Weight	48.5 g
7	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	80x59x21 mm
8	Battery type	CR2032
9	Memory function	there is
10	Memory	450 measurements

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Omelon B2

A multifunctional device made in Russia, which allows the procedure for measuring sugar without taking blood, based on the result of blood pressure. Suitable for adults, children and the elderly. Has memory for storing and analyzing research data. Compact in size, with clear, detailed instructions. Popular for its measurement method and duration of use. Average cost: 6800 rubles.

Main characteristics:

number	Functional	Parameters
1	Method of measurement	Non-invasive
2	Blood pressure measurement range, kPa	for adults: 2.6 to 36.4 (20 to 280) for children: 2.6 to 23.9 (0 to 180)
3	Range of indication of blood glucose level, mmol / l (mg / dl)	2 to 18 mmol / L (36.4 to 327 mg / dL)
4	Weight	0.5KG
5	Dimensions of the device (LxWxT)	55 × 100 × 45 mm
6	Battery type	AA

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Disadvantages:

Rules for using the meter

When using the device for personal purposes, one should not forget about simple rules of a safe procedure:

• be sure to have washed clean hands;
• place all accessories and auxiliary materials in an accessible place for an outstretched hand;
• before the puncture, the hand must be shaken to ensure blood flow to the fingers;
• quickly remove the test strip from the case and insert it into the device;
• make a puncture and bring your finger to the test strip;
• wait for the result within 5-40 seconds.

The main thing when choosing a device

When choosing a model for the home, you must remember that:

• the device should be fast, easy to set up;
• take a minimum of blood;
• automatically measure;
• do not harm health;
• report bugs;
• have available components.

Use of additional parameters

It is not only easy, but also convenient to use the meter with additional settings:

• a large memory will help to trace the effectiveness of taking medications, determine the required dosage, adjust nutrition;
• an audible alert will tell you that your glucose level is abnormal;
• connecting to a computer will allow you to track the results on a large screen;
• measurement of pressure will eliminate the need to purchase an additional device: a tonometer;
• the voice message of indicators is necessary for people with impaired or impaired vision;
• measuring cholesterol levels in some cases is simply necessary;
• the presence of backlighting allows the procedure to be carried out in dark places.

The glucometer is also called a “home laboratory”, as it is essentially no different from the devices of medical centers, but at the same time its compactness, lightness, ease of use make it possible to take care of your health, keep glucose levels under control, and lead a normal life.