Which glucometer is better, type and operating principle. How to choose a glucometer for home use for a person with diabetes? For older patients with diabetes

A glucometer is an electronic medical device that can be used to quickly measure blood glucose levels at home. For a diabetic, this device is vital. Many people think that there is no need to throw away extra money; they can do without it. Thus, you are putting your health at risk. A diabetic who is concerned about his health and wants to avoid complications of the disease must constantly exercise glycemic control. Many people face these questions: “How to choose a glucometer for your home? How to choose a glucometer for an elderly person or a child? Why is it needed? By purchasing this device, you will not need to constantly go to the laboratory and get tested. You can find out what your blood sugar is at any time. To buy a really good device, you need to take into account many factors: age, price and accuracy of the device, price of test strips.

All glucometers are divided into two main groups:

Photometric;
electrochemical.

Test strips of photometric devices have a special reagent. When blood hits the test strip, the reagent interacts with this biological fluid (the test strip takes on a certain color, usually blue). The intensity of the color depends entirely on the amount of glucose contained in the blood. Using a built-in optical system, the meter analyzes color and performs certain calculations. After a certain time, the result appears on the screen. Such devices have a certain error and large dimensions.

In electrochemical glucose meters, test strips are also treated with a certain reagent. When interacting with blood, electric currents appear, which are recorded and analyzed by the sensitive system of the device. Based on the data received, the glucometer displays the result of its calculation. With this type of operation, the devices show more accurate results. In addition, such devices are equipped with additional functions:

• availability of memory (research results are saved);
• output the result using various methods (sound or digital);
• alert system (if there is a small amount of blood for research);
• possibility of markings (before or after meals);

Each glucometer comes with a pen with a lancet for automatically pricking a finger (this is convenient not only for children, but also for adults).

How to choose a glucometer for home

Nowadays you can find a lot of glucometers with different price ranges, it all depends on the manufacturer and the functions of this device. To choose the right glucose meter, you need to consider the following:

1. Assess the financial feasibility of purchasing not only the device itself, but also consumables (approximately calculate how many test strips and lancets you will use per month, convert this into monetary units).
2. Consider individual characteristics. For young people, it is better to buy a glucometer that is easy to use, has small dimensions and does not require a large amount of blood. A glucometer for seniors should have a large screen and test strips to make it easy to use.
3. The instrument has a certain degree of error. The average error is 15% (20% allowed). The higher the sugar level, the greater the error. It is better to buy a glucometer that has the least error in results. Modern devices can measure blood sugar in the range of 1-30 mmol/l.

How to choose a glucometer for an elderly person or child

The glucometer used by a child has certain requirements:

• constant monitoring (high accuracy);
• least pain when piercing a finger;
• a small drop of blood for testing.

For older people:

• The size of the device does not matter;
• you need a large screen and a durable case;
• the smallest number of functions;
• The accuracy of the research is not so critical (of course, the more accurate, the better).

Manufacturers and equipment

The most common manufacturers of glucometers are:

Serum is not an option. But this is necessary for the effective treatment of diabetes mellitus or the treatment of insulin resistance. For such people, doctors usually recommend buying a portable device to monitor their condition - a glucometer. Considering the fact that there are many devices on the market that differ in different parameters, including accuracy, it is logical to first find out which glucometer is best to buy. Reviews of models will definitely help you determine the best model.

Who needs this device anyway?

There is a widespread belief in the world that only people with hyperglycemia should buy this device. But in reality it won't hurt many people. Of course, people in good health will not need it, but the circle of people who need to buy it is wide:

1. Patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
2. Elderly.
3. Insulin dependent patients.
4. Children whose parents have a carbohydrate metabolism disorder.

However, even healthy people need to measure glycemia if certain symptoms are observed. And having such a device will be very useful.

How to choose the right glucometer for an elderly person?

This measuring device must be very simple and reliable so that an elderly person can understand how to use it. Modern models have only two or three buttons (and there are models without buttons at all) - this is quite enough to measure glycemia. Note that the convenience and simplicity of the interface is the most important criterion if you need to choose a good and inexpensive glucometer for older people.

In general, there are a lot of selection criteria.

Mechanism

There are several types of glucometers on the market, differing in their operating principle: electrochemical, photometric. They are equal in measurement accuracy, but electrochemical glucometers are more convenient because the results are displayed on a small screen. If a photometric device is used, the result will be shown as a color on a special test strip. The resulting color must be compared with known equivalents. This procedure is not always accurate, because the interpretation of color sometimes causes disputes even between doctors, not to mention ordinary patients.

Voice notification and other functions

If the person is elderly and has poor eyesight (this is also suitable for young people), then a voice notification of the result will be very useful. The device takes measurements and makes a squeak if blood sugar rises.

There are also models on the market that require more or less blood to perform an accurate analysis. If you need to frequently test your child's blood, you need to choose a model that will not take too much blood. And if this parameter is not always indicated, customer reviews will help you find out about this.

Glucometers also have different analysis times. Most examine blood within 5-10 seconds - this is the optimal indicator. There are also models that remember the previous test result and display it on the screen. This way, a diabetic will be able to observe changes in dynamics and control blood sugar levels.

More expensive devices provide the ability to test serum for triglycerides or ketones. With their help, disease control is easier. One of the most important points is the versatility of test strips when it comes to photometric glucometers. Some devices can only work with special test strips. Most often they are more expensive and are sold only in some pharmacies. When choosing a photometric glucometer, you must make sure that it uses standard (universal) test strips.

Cost is the last selection criterion, but everything is simple here: the simplest and most laconic models are inexpensive, their price is around 2,000 rubles. Later we will present specific models and talk about which glucometer is better to choose; reviews from experts will help you figure it out.

So, everything is clear with the selection criteria. You can proceed directly to the rating.

Rating of the best glucometers (based on reviews)

This rating is based on simple and concise models that are accessible to the majority. They are often recommended by experts due to the quality of the instruments themselves and the accuracy of the measurements. So, which glucose meter is best? Popular models, reviews, prices, features - all this is in the rating.

1st place - One Touch Ultra Easy

One of the best models that was popular at the time. Today this glucometer is not produced, but it can be found on sale in many stores and pharmacies. The price of this device is 2,200 rubles, which makes it affordable for most citizens.

This is an electrochemical convenient device, portable, has only 2 buttons, weighs 35 grams. The kit includes a nozzle with which you can draw blood from almost any place. The test result becomes available to the patient within 5 seconds.

The only drawback of the model is the lack of voice function. However, this is not so important. But what’s really important is the feedback from experts. "Which glucometer is best to buy?" - to answer this question from patients, they first of all advise the ONE TOUCH ULTRA EASY model. The patients themselves also speak well of the device, pointing primarily to its ease of use. The model is perfect for older people and those who are often on the road. Of course, one of the best offers on the market at an adequate price.

2nd place - Trueresult Twist

This glucometer is also electrochemical, but its price is lower - only 1,500 rubles. Convenience, impeccable accuracy and ease of operation are the main advantages of the device. The blood test is carried out instantly and requires only 0.5 microliters of blood, which is very little. The test result will be available within 4 seconds. A nice feature is the large display, on which the result is clearly visible even to people with vision problems.

If we talk about which glucometer is better to buy, reviews about this model allow us to put it in second place, but it has a certain drawback. The annotation for the device states that it can only be used under the following environmental conditions: temperature in the range from +10 to +40 degrees, humidity in the region of 10-90%. If you use the meter under conditions other than those specified, you may get inaccurate results.

In reviews, buyers praise the device for its low price, large enough battery, which is enough for 1500 measurements (enough for about 2 years). The model is also convenient on the road, so it is most often chosen by patients who need to travel for work.

3rd place - "Accu-Chek Active"

An even more affordable model, which will cost only 1,200 rubles. The device guarantees high accuracy of results. Unlike other glucometers, this one allows you to apply a drop of blood to a test strip either inside or outside the device.

When choosing which glucometer is best to buy, it is imperative to take reviews into account. About the ACCU-CHEK ACTIVE model, they are mostly positive, because, in addition to showing the exact result, the device also stores 350 results in its memory with the exact dates of each test. This makes it possible to monitor the dynamics of changes.

As for the specifics in the reviews, first of all, patients highlight the ease of use of the device. With other glucometers, the results have to be written down on a piece of paper in order to monitor the dynamics. And with this device everything is much simpler. The measurement accuracy is included.

4th place - One Touch Select Simple

Without knowing how to choose and which one is better to buy a glucometer, you can safely choose this model for 1100-1200 rubles. The name of the device speaks for itself; it is indeed a very simple and concise device for people who are poorly versed in various technical devices. The model is primarily aimed at older people. This is hinted at by the lack of buttons and controls. For the test, you just need to insert a test strip with a drop of blood and the result will be shown on the screen. There is also a sound signal that informs you about high or low blood sugar levels.

ONE TOUCH SELECT SIMPLE is a really good recommendation from experts when asked by patients about which glucometer is best to buy. The reviews do not lie, and almost all elderly patients praise the device for its simplicity and reliability.

5th place - "Accu-Chek Mobile" from the company "Hoffman La Roche"

Unlike the models above, this device can be called expensive. Today it costs about 4,000 rubles, so it is less popular. Meanwhile, this is a cool glucometer, which is rightfully considered the most convenient.

The main feature of the device is the cassette operating principle. That is, the device immediately contains 50 test strips, and the body has a convenient handle for drawing blood. The patient does not need to apply blood to the strip and insert it into the device themselves. However, after 50 tests you will have to put new test strips inside.

A special feature of the device is the mini-USB interface, which allows you to connect it to a computer to print out blood test results. Speaking about which glucometer is best to buy for home, reviews do not allow us to recommend ACCU-CHEK MOBILE. Considering the very high cost, it is not very popular, which is why there are few reviews about it. And such a device is not suitable for everyone, but only for a modern young man who can use its capabilities to the maximum.

6th place - "Accu-Chek Performa"

This model is unlikely to be surprising, but taking into account the feedback from patients and specialists, it can also be recommended. The glucometer will cost only 1,750 rubles. The device accurately analyzes the blood and beeps if the blood sugar level is higher or lower than normal. There is an infrared port for transferring data to a computer, but this technology is outdated and it is unlikely that anyone will use this port.

7th place - "TS Contour"

An accurate and time-tested device that does not make mistakes and lasts for years, is easy to use and affordable. If you can find it on the market, the price, on average, will be 1,700 rubles. The only possible drawback is the duration of the test. This meter takes 8 seconds to display the result.

8th place - EasyTouch blood analyzer

For 4,500 rubles you can buy an entire mini-laboratory that works using the electrochemical measurement method. This device is capable of detecting not only glucose, but also hemoglobin and even cholesterol in the blood. Separate test strips are provided for each test. Of course, it is not worth buying and overpaying if you only need to determine glucose. The disadvantage of the device is the lack of communication with a PC, but such a functional glucometer simply must have some kind of interface.

Which glucometer is better: comparison table

For simplicity and convenience of information perception, we indicate in the table the features of the mentioned glucometers:

		Peculiarities
	One Touch Ultra Easy		2200 rubles
	Trueresult Twist	A small and inexpensive blood glucose meter that accurately measures blood glucose. Can only operate in a limited temperature and humidity range	1500-1600 rubles
	"Accu-Chek Active"	Cheap device. Has a memory of 350 previous results. Each result is remembered taking into account the date and time of the analysis	1200 rubles
	One Touch Select Simple	A device without any buttons. For analysis you only need to insert a test strip. There is a sound alert for low or high sugar levels	1100-1200 rubles
	"Accu-Chek Mobile"	A multifunctional and simple glucometer that takes blood itself and analyzes it. Can be connected to a computer to print results	4000 rubles
	"Accu-Chek Performa"	The simplest and most inexpensive device that can accurately measure glucose levels, nothing more	1750 rubles
	"TS Contour"	An outdated device that takes 8 seconds to analyze. Very reliable and accurate, time-tested	1700 rubles
		A portable laboratory that monitors cholesterol, hemoglobin and blood glucose. But this affects the price	4500 rubles

Each device in this rating deserves attention, is reliable and accurate, collects positive customer reviews and is often recommended by experts. Some of them have not been produced for a long time, but you can find them on sale.

Finally

Now you know which glucometer is better. You must read reviews about the model you are going to choose. Only there you can find those features and disadvantages of the device that manufacturers and sellers prefer to remain silent about.

The choice of a glucometer must be approached carefully, because this is a fairly important device that will allow you to accurately monitor the condition of your blood. If he makes a mistake during the analysis, this will affect the patient’s health, so you should only choose a proven and reliable device with positive reviews.

Today, in any pharmacy you can find a huge variety of devices for measuring blood pressure, blood sugar and pulse. For people suffering from diabetes, a device that measures the amount of sugar in the blood is very important and sometimes even indispensable. Various types of portable ones are widely used to measure the amount of sugar at home.

Glucose is a very important constituent substance in the body, which serves to ensure that the body has a sufficient amount of energy for normal human life and activity. In the case when the amount of glucose even slightly exceeds the norm, from a vital source it simply turns into a strong poison for the body, which gradually leads a person to sudden death.

Why do you need a glucometer?

A large amount of glucose in the human body usually always leads to such terrible consequences as severe kidney damage, as well as damage to the nervous system, and the fragility of blood vessels in the body increases significantly. The endocrine system of a healthy person strictly monitors the level of glucose in the blood. The norm is considered to be between 4.1 and 5.9 mmol/l. If a person has a disease such as diabetes, the mechanism for regulating the amount of glucose in the blood is quickly disrupted. To measure blood sugar or glucose, a special device called was created, which helps determine the level of glucose in the blood. This device is simply necessary for people suffering from this disease. It can save your time, because you will no longer need to get tested frequently at the clinic and you can do it without leaving home with the help of.

Diabetes and glucometers.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that occurs quite often. Diabetes mellitus can be either a hereditary disease or acquired during life. Diabetes mellitus is a disease that modern medicine cannot cure today. But, if you strictly monitor the course of this disease, you can lead an almost full life, with the exception of some points that are incompatible with diabetes. If you follow the doctor’s clear instructions, you can avoid many serious consequences, such as, for example, the development of secondary complications associated with this disease. The most important thing in the treatment of diabetes is strict control of the amount of glucose in the blood. This can be achieved through control methods such as diet, daily exercise, taking medications that lower blood glucose levels, and taking doses of insulin. which can help maintain blood glucose levels. But in order to perform these procedures, you need to know every day how much glucose is in the body, since the glucose level is constantly changing depending on the rhythm of life and nutrition. Therefore, people suffering from diabetes simply need to have a device in their home called, which can help you find out your sugar level.

How to choose a glucometer?

Speed ​​of work

Dimensions

The amount of information remembered,

Price.

In addition, you should take note:

Difficult to use. The more complex the device, the longer the test takes,

Error during analysis,

The quality of the materials from which the device is made is

Screen size, numbers and image quality. For patients with poor vision, it is better to choose models with voice notification,

Possibility of obtaining statistical data for a certain period (average),

The presence of auto-encoding or the presence of a chip with each pack. Otherwise, each time before using the device, you will have to manually enter the code; test strips can be packaged in individual bags, or they can be in tubes. Individual packaging is more convenient if testing is not carried out too often (for type 2 diabetes).

It is convenient if the device can be connected to a computer and process data using special programs.

When purchasing a device for a child, you should choose those that require as little blood as possible, as well as those with the thinnest lancet needles.

For those who will carry the device with them, the weight of the device itself is important (it is usually quite small), as well as the weight of all the consumables that you will have to carry with you all the time: a bottle with, packaging - these together can amount to quite a voluminous plastic bag.

The most popular and modern glucometers.

It is very easy to use, works quickly, and requires a small volume of blood for analysis - only 1-2 microliters. A display with large numbers will allow people with impaired vision to use the device. The device has an automatic shutdown function 1-2 minutes after use. Once opened, you can use it until the expiration date. has an infrared port, which makes it easy to exchange information with a personal computer.

The first glucometer into which 50 is immediately inserted in the form of a replaceable cassette. Forget about bottles of test strips - insert the cassette and use it on the road, on the street, at home or at work. The body has a built-in handle for piercing fingers with a drum for six lancets. The handle can be detached from the body. The kit includes a micro-USB cable for connecting to a computer. Measurement time is about 5 seconds. no coding required.

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Poor nutrition, characterized by excess fats and carbohydrates, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle are just the main factors contributing to the development of diabetes. Previously quite rare, in the 21st century this disease has become one of the most common on our planet, so that many doctors are already beginning to talk about an epidemic of diabetes. And the forecasts are disappointing: UN health experts believe that the number of people with this disease will only increase in the near future.

Today, a diagnosis of diabetes is not a death sentence at all, and people who suffer from this disease can easily lead the same active lifestyle as everyone else. However, the primary issue, on which their very life sometimes depends, is the ability to control blood sugar levels in order to avoid its uncontrolled decline or rise, and if sharp fluctuations do occur, have time to take all the necessary measures.

Glucometer - a convenient device for measuring blood sugar levels

Due to the introduction of portable glucometers, now almost every patient gets this opportunity, which significantly improves his quality of life. You can purchase such a device without any restrictions, and the detailed instructions, which are necessarily attached to each glucometer, will allow you to quickly and without any problems master its use.

Typically, in addition to the device itself, the kit also includes a pen for pricking the finger, as well as lancets and disposable test strips, which are classified as consumables. This means that they will have to be purchased in the future. However, these are, in fact, the only additional costs that you will face.

You just have to pay special attention to ensure that the lancets and strips exactly match the brand of the glucometer, and also have an unexpired expiration date. Otherwise, the accuracy of the instrument readings is not guaranteed. Therefore, before purchasing it, be sure to inquire about the situation with consumables in your city.

Capabilities of modern glucometers

The principle of operation of the glucometer is quite simple: after pricking the finger, which is done automatically, a drop of blood is applied to the so-called test zone of the strip, which, as a rule, is highlighted in a different color. After this, information about the blood sugar level is read from it and after a certain period of time is displayed on the display (this indicator, depending on the manufacturer and type of glucometer, can range from 5 to 45 seconds).

The ease of use of this medical device is also enhanced by the fact that dozens and sometimes hundreds of results from previous tests are stored in its memory. Based on them, you will be able to get the most complete and objective picture of your health, which will have the most positive impact on the overall course of treatment and will allow you to avoid various complications that often accompany this disease.

However, those people who believe that only diabetics should constantly monitor their blood sugar levels are deeply mistaken. Doctors recommend that even healthy people undergo this procedure once a month, since the amount of glucose is the most important indicator of the general condition of the body. Regularly checking your sugar levels is one of the most effective ways to prevent diabetes, especially for those at risk.

Portable glucometers are indispensable not only for individual use, but also in cases where mass screening of the population is required. For this reason, they can be used very successfully in medical institutions.

A glucometer is an easy-to-use and at the same time very reliable device that allows you to know your blood sugar level at any time and thereby makes life much easier for all those who suffer from diabetes. In a word, if you closely monitor your health, then you simply cannot do without a glucometer!

A glucometer is a device that no diabetic can do without. When measuring, you should follow the rules for using a glucometer, since the accuracy and correctness of the result depends on this. Indeed, with diabetes, especially type 1, it is extremely important to get an accurate figure, which will help keep the disease in check. The operating principle of all glucometers is the same, and the range is wide. To choose a convenient and practical device, it is important to know its purpose and operating features.

What is a glucometer used for?

Let's start with the fact that a glucometer is an indispensable thing for a diabetic, which measures blood sugar levels. Glucose is a beneficial substance that is used in many body processes and provides energy to keep organs functioning smoothly. With diabetes, blood glucose levels increase, and excess amounts turn natural sugar from a helper into a pest. The heart, blood vessels, kidneys, as well as the endocrine system suffer. A stable glucose level ranges from 4 to 5.9 mmol/l (immediately after eating, the units of measurement are 1-2 higher). If the measurement showed higher values, then it is most likely diabetes.

It becomes necessary to measure the indicators on a daily basis and to make life easier for a diabetic, glucometers were invented. The device is designed to determine the amount of sugar and is a device that consists of an electronic unit and a display. For those who strictly monitor their health, some types of devices can even store the results of the latest measurements in memory. The kit includes:

• the electronic unit;
• lancet - a piercing object for collecting material;
• test strips;
• batteries;
• case.

Types of apparatus

There are many companies on the market that produce glucometers; your doctor will help you choose a device.

Types of devices are divided into 3 types:

• Electrochemical. The determination of glucose is based on a chemical reaction of electric current. Thus, external influences are minimized, which ensures the accuracy of the meter. Another convenience is that the test strips are equipped with a capillary, which makes it possible to carry out the procedure at home.
• Photometric. The device shows the glucose level by the intensity of the color of the test strip. The strip itself is treated with a special substance, which, upon contact with the reagent, colors it and, depending on the color saturation, the indicator is determined. The level meter is not a number, but a color, so the error in the result is high.
• The non-contact type works on the principle of a spectrometer - it scans the spectrum of the palm, thus reading the level of glucose secretion.

Device functions

Technical characteristics of the glucometer:

• measurement method (electromechanical or photometric);
• the presence of additional parameters, for example, a ketone body meter;
• a large amount of memory, which helps to maintain electronic statistics to track trends for the better or worse of changes in condition;
• Synchronization with a computer allows you to keep an electronic diary.

How does a glucometer work?

Electrochemical, photometric, non-contact these three types of glucometers exist at the moment.

The operating principle of a glucometer depends on its type. Take, for example, photometric. Photometric devices involve an optical measurement system. Such a device does not show a number, but acquires a shade on the test strip, and using an optical system, the desired indicator is determined. The more intense and saturated the color, the higher the number. This method does not give clear results, so it became obsolete and was replaced by electrochemical methods. With an electrochemical type glucometer, results are shown by measuring the electrical current as glucose oxidizes.

Measurement Rules

The instructions for storing and using the glucometer are simple: store it in a dry place where the device will be protected from temperature changes. Test strips have an expiration date - after opening the package, they are used for 3 months. Do not forget about hygiene rules before performing the analysis: washing your hands and disinfecting the puncture site. The needle is used once, and the tip of the finger or forearm is chosen for the puncture. The analysis is carried out according to a strict algorithm. Glucometry is carried out on an empty stomach.

Algorithm for measuring blood with a glucometer:

1. Prepare items for the procedure: alcohol and cotton wool, connect the device.
2. Before the procedure, wash your hands with soap and wipe dry.
3. Place the needle in the lancet, adjust the puncture depth, and insert a test strip into the device.
4. Before piercing your finger, you need to treat the injection site with alcohol, place the lancet at the place where the puncture will be made, and press the button.
5. Apply a drop of material to the test strip and wait less than 40 seconds.
6. Once the result is obtained, the strip is discarded and cannot be reused.
7. Apply a cotton swab to stop the bleeding.

How often should the test be performed?

The basic rule for the frequency of measurements: with type 1 diabetes, the number of measurements varies within 3-4 times a day, with type 2 diabetes - 2 times a day, before breakfast and the second meal.

The number of measurements per day is determined by the attending physician.

But despite the established rule, only the doctor determines the number of tests per day, guided by the characteristics of the course of each patient’s disease. It happens that a patient cannot normalize glucose levels for a long time and to do this, he is forced to carry out the procedure up to 8 times a day: morning and evening, before and after meals. Over time, the measurement frequency is adjusted.

It is worth noting that the glucometer is characterized by an error of up to 20%, so before the first use you should set up the device and check how correctly it can measure the result. To do this, you will need to carry out the procedure in a clinic, then at home and compare the results, the difference should not exceed 20%. In addition, the accuracy of the device is determined by alternately measuring glucose 3 times. The error is within normal limits - 10%.