Your Guide to Diabetes Supplies
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes or you are simply looking for ways to improve your diabetes management routine, Hawthorne Pharmacy is here for you. We understand that it can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to balance regular life alongside diabetes.
No matter what your personal goals or next milestones may be, staying on top of your condition can make all the difference between making do and making the most out of your life.
Types of Medical Equipment
As with any healthy routine, you should always work closely with your healthcare provider to choose the regimen that works for you. This resource can serve as a summary of what you may discuss with the medical professionals in your life.
Should I use a Glucometer or CGM?
A glucometer (also called a glucose meter) is a medical device used to measure how much glucose is present in the bloodstream. Some benefits of this method include on-demand results, accurate readings, and discreet storage. This device is usually the first choice for people with diabetes who need to check their glucose levels regularly. However, a glucometer requires regularly pricking your fingers and purchasing test strip refills.
A CGM (continuous glucose monitor) is a device that automatically records your body’s glucose levels through a sensor and a receiver system. This can be helpful to individuals who need additional accountability or alerts related to their glucose levels throughout the day. This device can give you more information and tracking options with fewer total pricks, although users must still replace the sensor every 1 to 2 weeks. The price of these monitors can also be higher than standard glucometers.
When considering whether to use a glucometer or a CGM, it might help to examine your needs and priorities. If you dislike pricking your finger daily then a CGM could be a good choice for you, while if you already prefer to check your glucose levels at consistent times each day, a glucometer may be sufficient for your needs. Some common times you should check your blood sugar include before a meal, 2 hours after a meal, or in the morning, at night, or before and after exercise.
What are Common Insulin Supplies?
Those who are living with type 1 diabetes or who have had type 2 diabetes for a long time may also need to consider various devices for insulin delivery. Some common methods include an insulin syringe or pen, an insulin pump, and an insulin inhaler. For more information on these methods, read this CDC article.
What Other Diabetes Supplies Do I Need?
Beyond the diabetes necessities above, there are many additional supplies that those with diabetes may purchase to live a safe and comfortable life.
Depending on your routine, you may need to have on-hand supplies like alcohol prep pads for shots, glucose tablets or fruit juice for balancing blood sugar, and ketone test strips for cases when your blood sugar is above 240 mg/dL.
Diabetes can affect more than just your blood sugar. Since diabetes can cause nerve damage, seeking out ways to keep your feet healthy can help prevent any future difficulties. Look for supportive, comfortable footwear and avoid extreme heat, cold, or moisture. Keeping your hands and feet moisturized is another way to prevent discomfort or pain. Finally, compression stockings and socks can help to support your limbs by increasing circulation.
Traveling with Diabetes Equipment
TSA does permit traveling with diabetes devices and supplies. You can either notify the officer once you arrive at the TSA checkpoint or bring a TSA notification card to explain your condition.
You may need to undergo a separate screening or pat-down examination for medical equipment, but liquids and other diabetes supplies are usually permitted even if they are above 3.4 ounces. For more tips on traveling with diabetes, view this CDC article.
Hawthorne Can Help
Remember, your doctor should always be your primary guide when selecting medical equipment or other diabetes supplies. If you need more advice on how to manage your diabetes, visit us in person or send us a message today. We are happy to discuss our cost-effective diabetes products and answer any questions you may have.