1. Who should check their blood sugar levels?

2. Why do we need to measure our blood sugar levels?

3. What is a normal target range?

4. How do I measure my blood glucose levels?

5. When testing my blood sugar, what should I be aware of?

6. How frequently should I measure my blood sugar?

7. What might affect my results?

8. Why is a blood test more accurate than other tests, such as the urine test?

9. Are there non-invasive alternatives to the finger-prick test?

10. What is the difference between a blood sugar metre and a continuous glucose monitor?

The elderly would especially benefit from regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, especially those with diabetes (Types 1 and 2) or symptoms of diabetes, so that they can seek treatment earlier if necessary. A recent study found that elderly patients with diabetes were at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia by approximately 1.5-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively. 

If you aren’t already checking your blood glucose levels, you may consult your doctor to discuss whether you should start. You can also book a service with our nurses to receive professional guidance and diabetic care services.

By measuring blood sugar levels using a blood sugar metre, you can identify whether your blood sugar levels are too high or too low from your target range. Every person’s target range can vary, depending on a variety of factors such as age, diet, and genetics. To find out your target range, please consult a medical professional.

If your blood sugar levels are too high from your target range, this could result in Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

As blood sugar levels increase, the pancreas will eventually not be able to produce enough insulin to meet the body’s demands, so the body becomes resistant to insulin, which will then lead to Type 2 Diabetes.

  How we can help: 

• Our nurses can help with insulin injections and wound dressing (wounds are difficult to heal for diabetics). 
  
• Our dietitians can help you design a diet change to improve your situation. With proper management, you can reduce your need for insulin injections. 
• Book a free consultation or call us at 3905 4000, if you would like to find a private nurse to provide diabetic care services at home.

A blood sugar test can tell you how much glucose is in your blood at any given time.

A blood glucose testing kit should come with test strips. You will also need a lancet – a small needle. To perform the test, you need to start by inserting the test strip into the metre. Using a lancet, prick the side of your finger so a drop of blood comes out. Touch and hold the edge of the test strip towards the blood. 

Generally, the procedure is very quick: most blood glucose metres will provide results in 5 seconds. 

If you need a care professional to assist with blood sugar testing or insulin injections, feel free to check out our home care pricing details to understand our service fees and hourly rates.

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The Centre for Health Protection in Hong Kong (CHP)  advises you to measure your 2-4 times per week at various times during the day (e.g. before and after eating). You should monitor your blood sugar more often if:

1. Your blood glucose often tested too high or too low;
2. If you are pregnant or preparing for pregnancy;
3. During illness;
4. If there are changes in your daily routine, such as a trip abroad, an unusual level of physical exercise, or changes in diet.

Timing is one of the most important factors when measuring blood sugar.



Do not measure your blood sugar immediately after eating or after exercise to avoid obtaining unreliable results. For instance, if you consume starchy foods rich in carbohydrates, this will cause your blood sugar to rise higher than your normal levels. After exercise, your blood glucose levels may be lower than normal, which may not yield accurate results. 

Other factors that might affect your blood sugar levels include illness, hormonal changes (menstrual cycles), stress, and changes in lifestyle (diet, medication, exercise levels). 

Scientists are working to develop many non-invasive blood sugar monitors which could significantly reduce the need for routine finger-prick tests, such as the readers and sensors launched by Freestyle Libre , and the continuous glucose monitors (CGM) developed by Dexcom. However, the finger-prick test will sometimes still be required to recalibrate the device.

Like the name suggests, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a wearable device that tracks your glucose levels throughout the day, whilst a blood sugar metre measures your blood sugar one point in time. A CGM would benefit someone with diabetes who struggles with maintaining regular blood sugar levels. 

Using a sensor under the skin (which needs to be replaced regularly), the CGM measures your blood sugar every few minutes. On the market, there are water resistant CGMs so users can shower, swim, or exercise. 

With a CGM, regular finger-prick tests aren’t necessary, but if your symptoms don’t match the system readings, you will likely need to conduct a finger-prick blood glucose test. 

Consult your doctor about using a CGM if you’re pregnant, on dialysis or critically ill, as these conditions may affect the blood sugar readings from a CGM.

Choosing the right blood glucose metre 

Before choosing a blood glucose metre, it is best to consult with your doctor and consider various factors, especially costs and insurance coverage. Accessibility is also an important factor: Is the monitor easy to use? Would the results be easy to read? After weighing out all your options, you can choose the blood glucose metre that is best for you.