Home Blood Glucose Test

Blood Glucose, Home Monitoring

Results

A home blood glucose test measures the amount of a type of sugar, called glucose, in your blood at the time of testing. The test can be done at home or anywhere, using a small portable machine called a blood glucose meter.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that you stay within the following blood sugar level ranges. However, depending on your health, you and your doctor may set a different range for you.

Recommended blood sugar level ranges

For nonpregnant people with diabetes:	90 mg/dL (5 mmol/L) to 130 mg/dL (7.2 mmol/L) before meals Less than 180 mg/dL (10 mmol/L) 2 hours after a meal
For women who have diabetes related to pregnancy (gestational diabetes):	95 mg/dL (5.3 mmol/L) or less before breakfast 140 mg/dL (7.7 mmol/L) or less 1 hour after a meal

 

Many conditions can change blood glucose levels. Your doctor will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

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Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: July 25, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Alan C. Dalkin, MD - Endocrinology
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