How Does a Glucose Monitor Meter Work?

In order to keep track of diabetic condition, there are several methods available for monitoring glucose level. One method among these monitoring techniques is self monitoring of glucose level using glucose monitor meter. High blood glucose level, commonly referred to as high blood pressure, is related with complications like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney problems and nerve damage. On the other hand, low blood glucose level can also bring health complications such as impairment of central nervous system like confusion, seizures and could also become fatal, leading to coma and death.

The easiest method to monitor glucose level is using a glucose monitor meter, which can be easily used on daily basis. Self monitoring not only ensures that you have close watch on diabetic condition, but also helps you form dietary regimen, physical training schedules and determining the ideal time for medications. Usage and working of electronic blood glucose monitor is convenient, which identifies blood samples using a test strip.

Components of Glucose Monitor Meter

Testing strip (single use) and monitor are the main components of the electronic device for monitoring glucose level. Testing strip appears like a paper, which has properties to react with sugar in the blood for measuring the diabetic reading. Layers of the testing strip include one of enzyme glucose oxidase, another of potassium ferricyanide and one with the electrodes to measure current flow. Within these layers, there are chemical layers that allow chemically treated layers to combine with blood.

Glucose monitor meter is another component which records electrical current running through the test strip. Measurement of electric current is thereafter converted into a digital reading reflecting amount of glucose in the blood.

Working

1. Blood Sampling: For monitoring glucose level, blood sample is obtained with help of lancet from the finger. Most of the electronic glucose monitors nowadays require one microlitre of blood; therefore, same volume is derived for sampling. This tiny blood drop is thereafter put on to the test strip, and is inserted into the glucose monitor.
2. Test Strip Action: Test strip contains an enzyme for oxidation of glucose to gluconolactone. The oxidation reaction transfer electrons to another indicator compound, leading to creation of electrical current.
3. Besides reflecting sugar level in digital form as accurately as possible, new generation glucose monitors also have other capabilities such as wireless communication, memory and sophisticated data management software for tracking glucose concentration for more duration.

Read more articles on Diabetes Diagnosis and Prognosis