Diabetes in the Digital Age: 7 Ways to Use Technology to Manage Your Blood Sugar

Thanks to technology, managing diabetes has become more convenient than ever. I’ve tracked down some of the most helpful options available to you. 

One area of technology I’ve grown fond of is virtual care. As a nurse, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound reassurance it offers people living with chronic conditions.

For example, I’ve been on a team that could track and analyze vital sign trends and quickly call and intervene if anything appeared abnormal. Providing virtual care transformed healthcare for this particular group of people.

Technology is different for everyone. Some people may find it empowering, and others may feel it’s a burden. Find what works best for you.

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1. Glucose meters

Glucose meters, or glucometers, are standard devices for managing diabetes. They interpret your blood sugar by taking a small blood sample from a finger prick.

Glucose meters provide a snapshot of your blood sugar levels at a specific time rather than continuously. If your blood sugar rises and falls rapidly, you may prefer to use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which offers faster notifications compared to traditional glucose meters.

2. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)

If you are looking for a monitor that can continuously check your blood sugar without pricking your finger, CGMs might be right for you.

The sensor attaches to your skin and regularly sends blood sugar readings to a recording device. This information allows you to decide how to administer your insulin through injections, a pump, or oral medications.

CGMs offer convenience and allow you to track your blood sugar trends throughout the day. By identifying these patterns, you may improve your diabetes management.

3. Pens

Insulin pens are safe and effective devices commonly used to inject insulin. The dial can be rotated to the desired dose, and the small needle is injected under the skin to deliver insulin.

The push-button device is convenient, simple to use, and easy to carry around.

Insulin pens are a great tool if you have trouble holding syringes or experience vision loss. They’re user-friendly and give accurate doses.

Some pens are more advanced, also called smart pens or connected pens. They may offer a memory function for dose and timing. They can also provide printable reports, which makes it easier for your doctor to see historical data and trends.

4. Pumps

An insulin pump is a small device that attaches beneath your skin to give you insulin. Insulin is continuously delivered into your bloodstream as your body needs it. 

Insulin pumps act like the pancreas to keep blood sugar levels constant so your blood sugar doesn’t spike and drop. At meal times, you can program your pump to give extra insulin. This additional dose is also known as a bolus dose.

You can even choose to use the pump and CGM together. The pump will automatically receive data from the CGM and either deliver or withhold insulin based on your body’s needs. You won’t have to monitor your numbers as much because the devices do it for you.

5. Apps and wearables

If you like tracking your diabetes data, phone apps may appeal to you. They can track blood sugar, insulin doses, carb intake, and activity levels.

Apps also offer social interaction and add fun, game-like features. Research published in 2019 showed that some apps could decrease the study participants’ A1C by 1% to 2% because they were more engaged in managing their diabetes.

6. Telemedicine

Telemedicine gives you access to medical care from the comfort of your own home. You can use technology to speak to your doctor by video, phone, and in-app messaging.

Virtual care may be especially appealing if you have mobility limitations, live in a remote area, or lack transportation to a medical office. It can save time and effort while offering the same great care.

Telemedicine may be useful for follow-up visits and ongoing support. It’s convenient because you can get your questions answered right away.

7. Online communities

If you’ve landed on this article, you’ve found BezzyT2D, an online community that offers connections and support for those with type 2 diabetes.

Through shared experiences, you can learn from others about how they’re managing their diabetes. You can also offer insight from your own experience. You aren’t alone in this journey. Online communities like Bezzy are here to help!

Takeaway

You have options when it comes to using technology to manage your diabetes. Choose the devices that simplify your life and work best for you.

Some devices may be more complex and have a steeper learning curve. When making your decision, consider cost and ease of use. If you have impaired vision, look for options with oversized buttons or easy-to-read text.

Initially, using technology to manage your diabetes might seem daunting. But as you become used to it, you may find that it decreases the burden of managing diabetes. Discover what is most effective, convenient, and beneficial for your health.