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Diabetes Health
Monitoring Glucose by iPhone?People with diabetes may one day be able to pass up the finger prick to check their blood glucose - and measure it instead by using their iPhone.  Researchers at Northeastern University in Boston have developed a method that involves placing extremely small substances called nanoparticles just beneath the skin. These tiny droplets contain a special dye and special molecules that bind to glucose. The "tattoo" of nanoparticles can't be seen under normal light, but it will show up under a special device attached to an iPhone. The molecules fluoresce when they bind with glucose, and the phone device is able to determine a glucose reading from the amount of fluorescence in the tattoo. Special deviceCurrently, the iPhone device - still in the experimental stage - is powered by a nine-volt battery. It fits over an iPhone and illuminates the nanoparticles, causing them to fluoresce. A light filter over the phone's camera blocks the illuminating light but not the fluorescence from the tattoo. The readings picked up by the phone's camera are sent to a computer for analysis. The researchers hope to refine the device so that it can draw power from the phone instead of from the extra battery. They are also expanding uses for the nanoparticles and reader. The device could be used to measure sodium levels and dissolved blood gases, such as nitrogen and oxygen. Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information. Online Resources(Our Organization is not responsible for the content of Internet sites.) American Diabetes Association - Blood Glucose Control American Diabetes Association - Checking Your Blood Glucose National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Continuous Glucose Monitoring |
September 2011Why Measure Glucose at HomeMany people with diabetes who use insulin test their glucose two to four times daily. If you don't need to use insulin, you may test it less often. Your health care provider can tell you when and how often to check your own level. Be sure to share this information with your family. The process is fairly simple:
By tracking changes in the readings, you can tell when your blood glucose goes up or down. This helps you make day-to-day choices about balancing your diet, physical activity, and diabetes medicine. Self-testing also lets you know when to take fast action to treat blood glucose that is too low or too high. Show your family member how to use the test equipment properly. Or ask your health care provider to help you demonstrate. Self-checks are typically done before meals, after meals, and at bedtime. A loved one who knows the ropes can help you stick to your schedule. Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information. |
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