The website may be down at times on Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, for maintenance. 

Please note: This information was current at the time of publication but now may be out of date. This handout provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. 

brand logo

Am Fam Physician. 2007;76(2):262

See related article on home blood sugar monitoring.

Why should I monitor my blood sugar at home?

Monitoring your blood sugar at home helps you and your doctor make good choices about treating your diabetes. Controlling it can help lower the risk of problems with your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

How do I monitor my blood sugar at home?

There are many easy-to-use blood sugar meters available. You can buy them at most drug stores and medical supply stores. When choosing a meter, you should think about features you want, like test time, sample size, and memory, and whether the meter can test somewhere other than your fingertips. Be sure you read the directions on how to use the meter before using it.

How often should I check my blood sugar?

This depends on several things, such as the type of medicines you are taking and how well your diabetes is controlled. Your doctor will tell you how often to check your blood sugar.

What should my blood sugar level be?

Your doctor will tell you what your goals should be. Ask your doctor what to do if your blood sugar is above or below your goal.

Fasting blood sugar goal:________________

Blood sugar goal one to two hours after meals:_______________________________

Blood sugar goal at bedtime or during the night (2 a.m.):____________________

Contact your doctor if your blood sugar is:_______________________________

Continue Reading


More in AFP

More in PubMed

Copyright © 2007 by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

This content is owned by the AAFP. A person viewing it online may make one printout of the material and may use that printout only for his or her personal, non-commercial reference. This material may not otherwise be downloaded, copied, printed, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any medium, whether now known or later invented, except as authorized in writing by the AAFP.  See permissions for copyright questions and/or permission requests.