Managing blood glucose levels is key to maintaining overall health, especially for individuals dealing with diabetes. Self-monitoring plays a crucial role in this journey, empowering patients to take charge of their well-being.

Let’s delve into the importance of self-monitoring and how it can positively impact your health. Self-testing is important for the following reasons:

• Early detection: catch health changes early, preventing complications
• Evaluate treatment: see what works best for you and adjust accordingly
• Self-empowerment: this will help the patient take an active role in their health decisions
• Improved Life: manage health better for a balanced, fulfilling life

Blood sugar level targets are individualized in order to prevent the risk of hypoglycemia (too low levels of blood sugar) or other adverse effects associated with blood sugar control that is too tight.

Your blood sugar range depends on age, lifestyle, and overall health. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) involves regularly testing your blood sugar levels using a glucometer. It provides real-time information about how your body responds to food, physical activity, medications, and overall lifestyle choices.

When to check blood sugar levels:

• Before meals
• Two hours after meals
• Before bedtime
• Before and after exercise
• When feeling unwell

How do you use a blood sugar meter?

1. Make sure the meter is clean and ready to use
2. After removing a test strip, immediately close the test strip container tightly. Test strips can be damaged if they are exposed to moisture

1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Dry well. Massage your hand to get blood into your finger. Don’t use alcohol because it dries the skin too much
2. Use a lancet to prick your finger. Squeezing from the base of the finger, gently place a small amount of blood onto the test strip. Place the strip in the meter
3. After a few seconds, the reading will appear. Track and record your results. Add notes about anything that might have made the reading out of your target range, such as food, activity, etc.
4. Properly dispose of the lancet and strip it in a trash container
5. Do not share blood sugar monitoring equipment, such as lancets, with anyone, even other family members
6. Store test strips in the container provided. Do not expose them to moisture, extreme heat, or cold temperatures

 

Self-monitoring blood glucose levels is a powerful tool in diabetes management. It’s more than just a test; it’s your window to understanding your body. By embracing self-monitoring, you’re taking proactive steps toward a healthier, more empowered lifestyle.

Remember, Goodlife, your healthcare provider is your best ally in this journey. Together, we create a monitoring routine that suits your needs and helps you lead a fulfilling, balanced life.

For details on how to get self-test kits and a FREE test at any of our stores contact us on 0715 703 000.

 

 

 

Citations:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2769614/

https://diabetesjournals.org/clinical/article/20/1/45/746/Self-Monitoring-of-Blood-Glucose-The-Basics

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002934305006649

 

We talk in general terms about headaches, what they are, and how to deal with them here, but headaches in small babies and small children deserve special attention. In this article, we will look at the symptoms and causes of headaches in children before the hormonal changes that come with puberty – from birth to about 10 or 11 years old.

What is a headache?

People – adults, children, and babies – have a headache when we feel pain or discomfort in our heads and/or around our faces. Because there are no pain nerves in the brain, it is not the brain that hurts, but rather we experience pain in the nerves and blood vessels in the jaw, neck, or head muscles. Babies and children can experience headache pain on one part of the head, they can be once off or more frequent.¹ About 20% of school-age children and teens get frequent headaches. Mostly, these are tension headaches, but some children do struggle with migraines which can get worse when they become teenagers² and which we will discuss in more detail in another article.

Doctors don’t entirely understand what causes headache pain, but they do recognize a range of different types of headache pain – up to 150.³

That sounds more terrifying than it is because, in most cases, what the doctors call primary headaches, are often nothing to worry about. Children, like adults, develop these headaches if they’re stressed, tired, or hungry. Usually, they go away – without medication. Headaches that are associated with an illness and/or conditions like influenza, hay fever, or injuries are known as secondary headaches and may require treatment (see below, when should I take my child to the doctor for a headache?).

There are four types of primary headache: tension headache, which we’ve already mentioned, migraines, chronic headaches, and cluster headaches. The latter two are not common in small children, and cluster headaches hardly ever occur in children under 10 years old.

How do I know if my little one has a headache?

Small children who can already speak will say something like, “Mamma, my head hurts!” or hold their heads and say, “Sore!” However, before they talk, babies use other signs to tell you their heads hurt. For example, they may cover their eyes or put their hands up, over their ears. Similarly, and like when they have a temperature, they may be sleepy and less active than usual and/or not interested in feeding.

Older children with headaches may not say they have a sore head, but be quieter than usual. So when you notice that your child is out of sorts, perhaps checking whether his/her head hurts is an excellent place to start.

Paediatric Migraines

Children can get migraines: in boys, they can start as early as 7 years old, and at around 10 for girls. Usually, there’s a family history of migraines, often with similar triggers. Children who have the gene for migraines may develop migraines when they get older.⁴ The typical symptoms of migraine in children, similar to adults, include:⁵

• Throbbing pain in the head
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to bright light and noise
• Aura, or seeing bright or flashing lights⁶
• Paler skin than usual

How to help your child when she has a migraine

In addition to any prescribed migraine medication, encourage your child to quietly relax and rest in her room with the curtains closed and with a cold or warm cloth on her forehead. You could also help her to focus on her breathing with deep, calm breaths.

Children, stress, and tension headaches

We often forget that children, as we do, get stressed. Emotional conflict, as well as lack of sleep, hunger, and thirst, can all cause headaches. Again, some of the symptoms are the same as tension headaches in adults.

Stress and mental or emotional conflict can cause tension headaches that creep up on anyone – including children. Bullying at school or fighting with friends or even brothers and sisters could easily cause a tension headache. While every child may experience symptoms differently, here are some questions based on the most typical symptoms of a tension headache, and which you can ask your child:

• Is your head sore on one side or both?
• Are you uptight and clenching your jaw a lot?
• Does it feel like you have something tight wrapped around your head?
• Where else does it hurt? The back of your head, the neck?
• How bad is the pain?

The pain with tension headaches is usually mild rather than severe.

In addition to these questions, you might also think about the following possible changes or events that be one of the causes of your child’s headache:

• How has s/he been sleeping? Not getting enough, having bad dreams?
• Is s/he drinking enough liquids? Could s/he be dehydrated?
• Is s/he eating properly and not skipping meals?

Symptoms, like nausea and vomiting that are typical of migraine headaches, are not associated with tension headaches.

How to relieve your child’s tension headache

In addition to medication, or before resorting to medication, which we discuss below, help your child to relax by getting him/her to lie down with the head on a pillow (slightly raised). Sometimes a cold or warm cloth on the forehead helps as does a warm bath or shower.⁷

When should I take my child to the doctor for a headache?

Mothers have good instincts about their children and will know when to consult a medical practitioner about their child’s headaches. The most obvious is if the child often has headaches – for no reasons that you or she can identify. Also, if the headache doesn’t go away, comes back, and/or gets worse, take your child to the doctor.

Also, take your child to the hospital, if your child has a headache and if she:

• Has a temperature/fever
• Has a stiff neck
• Has pain in the back of the head
• Has difficulty seeing, or cannot see
• Is vomiting
• Has any weakness in her muscles
• Has any symptoms that wake them up in the middle of the night

In the case of secondary headaches, that comes with a cold or flu, mum tends to know best. However, if your child has any head or neck trauma, whether it’s a nasty scratch, cut, bump or bruise, it’s a good idea to take your child to the emergency room. This way if there is brain damage or some other problem, it is quickly dealt with.⁸

 

What medicines are used for children’s headaches?

As we have already noted, children’s headaches don’t always need to be treated. However, if your child is very uncomfortable, there are over-the-counter pain killers like Cipladon 500mg (paracetamol) and ibuprofen that you can use. Before you give your child medicine, do remember that the dosages for children are based on their age and weight, so it’s best to do so under medical supervision.

If your child has been diagnosed with migraine, it’s possible that your pediatrician will prescribe one of the following medications:⁹

• Rizatriptan (Maxalt), for children between 6 and 17
• Propranolol – unless your child has asthma, diabetes, or depression.
• Topiramate, which is an anti-seizure drug that is as effective as propranolol
• Amitriptyline, which is an antidepressant often taken at bedtime, can help to prevent migraine and tension headaches

Disclaimer: For the above-listed non-over-the-counter medications require diagnosis and a prescription from your medical practitioner.

 

Disclaimer: The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

Sources:

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1. Seladi-Schulman, J. 2021 Having Constant Headaches? What You Need to Know. Healthline. [Online] Available from <https://www.healthline.com/health/constant-headache#causes> 21/07/2022
2. Cleveland Clinic medical professionals. Headaches in Children [Online] Available from <https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4225-headaches-in-children> 22/07/2022
3. Headache Basics. WebMD [Online] Available from  <https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraines-headaches-basics> 21/07/2022
4. Headaches in Children. Johns Hopkins Medicine [Online] Available from <https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/headache/headaches-in-children#> 21/07/2022
5. Chee, P 2021. Headache.  Child Neurology Foundation [Online] Available from <https://www.childneurologyfoundation.org/disorder/headache/> 21/07/2022
6. Davis, P D. 2021 Definition of Aura RxList  [Online] Available from <https://www.rxlist.com/aura/definition.htm> 21/07/2022
7. Khatri, M (reviewer) 2021.  What Should I Do for My Child’s Headaches? Home Treatments. WebMD [Online] Available from <https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/guide/your-childs-headache> 21/07/2022
8. Saling, J., 2020. Head Injury. WebMD [Online] Available from <https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/head-injuries-causes-and-treatments>
9. Marchin, A., 2022 Pediatric Headaches: Know Which Symptoms Are Red Flags Healthline [Online] Available from <https://www.healthline.com/health/pediatric-headache-red-flags> 21/07/2022

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining our health is paramount. One health condition that is becoming increasingly prevalent is diabetes. This chronic disease affects millions of people worldwide and can have a significant impact on their quality of life.

In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the various facets of diabetes, from its causes and symptoms to the most effective treatment options available. We will also explore practical lifestyle changes that can help you better manage your diabetes and enhance your overall well-being.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. When we consume food, it is broken down into glucose, which is used by our cells as a source of energy. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. In people with diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

There are three main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin.
• Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth.

Causes and risk factors of diabetes

The exact causes of diabetes are not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition.

• Type 1 diabetes: genetics and certain environmental triggers, such as viral infections, may play a role.
• Type 2 diabetes: is strongly associated with lifestyle factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.

Other risk factors include family history, age, ethnicity, and certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure.

Diagnosing diabetes

Diagnosing diabetes involves various tests to measure blood sugar levels. The most common diagnostic test is the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, which measures blood sugar levels after fasting for at least eight hours.

Another test is the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), which measures blood sugar levels before and two hours after consuming a glucose-rich drink.

Haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test is also used to determine long-term blood sugar control. If the results of these tests indicate high blood sugar levels, further testing may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Managing diabetes through lifestyle changes

Managing diabetes effectively often requires making significant lifestyle changes. These changes may include:

• Adopting a healthy diet
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing stress

A well-balanced diet for diabetes should consist of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Portion control and carbohydrate counting can also help regulate blood sugar levels. Regular exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and promote overall well-being.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to create an individualized plan that suits your needs.

Medications and treatments for diabetes

In addition to lifestyle changes, medications are often prescribed to manage diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential, as the body does not produce any insulin. Insulin can be administered through injections or an insulin pump.

Type 2 diabetes, oral medications, injectable medications, or a combination of both may be prescribed to help control blood sugar levels.

These medications work by increasing insulin production, improving insulin sensitivity, or reducing glucose production in the liver. It is crucial to follow the prescribed medication regimen and regularly monitor blood sugar levels to ensure optimal control of diabetes.

Prevention and complications of diabetes

While some risk factors for diabetes, such as family history and age, cannot be changed, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Adopting a balanced diet,
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Avoiding smoking

It is also essential to regularly monitor blood sugar levels, undergo regular check-ups, and manage other medical conditions to prevent or minimize complications associated with diabetes.

In conclusion, diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. By understanding the various aspects of diabetes, adopting healthy lifestyle changes, following prescribed medication regimens, and seeking regular medical care, individuals with diabetes can effectively manage their condition and lead fulfilling lives. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Goodlife is here to provide you with the resources, support, and expert advice you need to manage your diabetes and live your best life.