I love technology and all the gadgets that go along with it, including diabetes apps (applications) that help with managing diabetes. I recently read in Health Data Management news that the use of mobile and internet tools helped a group of people with diabetes lower their blood glucose levels. The group that used these tools saw an average A1C level decrease of almost 2 percent, which was more than twice the decrease seen in the control group. Other research has shown that even a 1 percent decrease in A1C helps to prevent complications of diabetes.
I typed in "diabetes" on my mobile device and downloaded several different diabetes apps that aim to help with managing diabetes. Costs varied from free to around $12. You have many diabetes apps to choose from to quickly record your blood sugar, blood pressure, pulse, weight, medications, food (usually carbohydrates) and exercise. You even have the ability to print or email your blood glucose record to your health care provider.
In our practice, I find that most people don't mind testing their blood sugar, but they don't care for writing down their readings. We understand busy schedules and know that it can be difficult to find the time to test your blood sugar, let alone write it down. However, keeping a record of your blood sugar levels can help you identify patterns of blood sugar levels that are too high or too low. A blood sugar record also helps your health care team evaluate the effectiveness of your diabetes medications, including insulin.
If you're comfortable with the technology, consider a mobile diabetes app to help you record your blood sugar levels. Mobile technology isn't for everyone, and that's all right! But it can be a good option for many.
We'd love to hear your experiences with mobile technology and diabetes management.
Peggy
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