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Diabetes is all about
getting the insulin to convert the glucose in the blood stream into
energy. If the patient is type 1 diabetes, then the problem is
augmented. As no insulin is produced, insulin has to be injected. Now,
as this is an everyday process, this will have to be done at home. So we
require insulin. However if this has to be injected into the body, then
we require syringes to do the work. Insulin and syringes would be an
important part of diabetic supplies. Once the insulin has been
administered, it would be necessary to check whether the no. of units
given has to be increased or decreased. The only way to do this would be
to test the blood sugar levels early in the morning and 2 hours after
eating lunch.
The instrument, which measures the blood sugar levels, is called a
glucose meter. For the glucose meter to record a level, the blood of the
diabetic is required. A lancet most often in the form of a pen is used
to prick the finger. The blood thus produced is taken on what is called
a “ testing strip”. Within seconds the glucose meter flashes the result.
Before the finger is pricked to draw blood, it should be cleaned with
alcohol and then wiped dry with cotton. A supply of alcohol and cotton
swabs is required. In order to test whether the glucose meter is
functioning correctly, we have in the diabetic supply a control
solution. When used on the test strip, the result obtained must be
within the specified range. Sometimes, instead of using insulin
syringes, insulin pumps are used. The pumps administer insulin directly,
but a disadvantage could be that the quantity of insulin inhaled may be
in excess or maybe less. The insulin bottles are provided with insul
caps to help direct the syringe correctly. Usually each set has 2 caps.
The insulin, syringes, lancets ,test strips the whole thing is packed
in an insulin carrying case. Reagent strips for urinalysis are also a
part of diabetic supplies.
Glucose tablets, which help in the elevation of blood sugar, may have to
be administered if the patient suffers from hypoglycemia. This has got
to be part of the diabetic’s paraphernalia. Sometimes a peripheral
neuropathy device is also present. This is used to test whether there is
any reduced sensation in the nerve fibers.
Diabetics must use proper socks and shoes. The socks help to prevent
ulcers, blisters and calluses. The socks are made from a special fiber,
which is friction free. It inhibits the growth of bacteria. Diabetic
shoes like diabetic socks serve the same purpose. As diabetics are prone
to foot infections specially designed shoes, which have extra depth and
width, are used. The life of a diabetic is not simple. Caution has to be
exercised all the time and while traveling the diabetic supplies have
got to be a part of his luggage.
~ author
Lata Batra..
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