SELFCheck, Blood Glucose Level Test Kit Twin Pack

Type II diabetes is the most common manifestation of diabetes in the UK.

There are thought to be as many as a million undiagnosed type II diabetics in the UK. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to vascular/circulation problems resulting in possible lower limb amputations, loss of vision, kidney failure, and strokes. The most common and significant metabolic disturbance is diabetes mellitus. People with diabetes have too little insulin and are, therefore, unable to maintain stable glucose levels within the recognised normal range of 4-6mmol/L. Some diabetics will require insulin as well as dietary changes and exercise to aid the long term control and management of insulin levels.

Symptoms of type II diabetes include; fluctuations in weight, poor sleep patterns, loss of appetite, thirstiness, and blurred vision. Individuals from certain areas of southern Asia also have a high risk of becoming diabetic.

Those at high risk of having diabetes are individuals with a family history of the disease and people aged over 40, overweight with a large waist measurement. Anyone having two or more indicators of higher risk should consider using a blood glucose screening test. The SELFCheck test is easy to use, requiring only a finger prick blood sample, producing a visual, easy to interpret result within minutes facilitating a visit to their GP for further investigation and advice if necessary.

The benefit of carrying out a SELFCheck Blood glucose test in privacy ensures confidentiality as well as providing the necessary incentive needed to take further steps in terms of managing personal health and earlier consultation with a healthcare professional to facilitate earlier medical intervention should further action be needed.

Who is this test for?
Everyone, but strongly recommended for all adults aged 40+ and also strongly recommended for those suffering with raised cholesterol, as their risk of arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) may be increased with diabetes.

Why test and control blood glucose levels?
Raised blood glucose levels can lead to diabetes. Diabetes affects 2 million people in the UK and is continuing to increase. Undiagnosed and badly managed diabetes can lead to other conditions, including significant problems with blood vessels, circulation, kidneys, eyesight and amputations.

What is "blood glucose level"?
The amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is also known as serum glucose level and is expressed in millimoles per litre (mmol/l) in the UK and mg/dL in the USA. Normally, blood glucose levels stay within narrow limits throughout the day, but it can be raised after meals and low in the morning. For people with diabetes, the blood sugar level moves outside these limits until treated. Even with good management, the blood sugar level will still at times move outside the normal range.

How often should blood glucose levels be measured?
It depends on lifestyle factors. People with low levels of physical activity, a poor diet or other medical conditions such as raised cholesterol should check glucose levels more frequently. Even healthy individuals would benefit from an annual check.

What should I do if blood glucose is outside the normal range?
In all cases, you should consult your doctor. Medical decisions must only be made following professional advice.

How are the test components disposed of?
After use, all of the test components can be disposed of with normal household waste.

The SELFCheck Blood Glucose test for diabetes (2 test) kit is easy to use, requires only a small finger prick blood sample to perform the test and a visual result is available in less than 5 minutes.

Always read the Instructions for use carefully. If you have concerns regarding any aspect of your health you should consult your healthcare professional for advice.