Blutzuckerselbstkontrolle

Blutzuckerselbstkontrolle, often abbreviated as BZSK, refers to the process by which individuals with diabetes monitor their own blood glucose levels. This self-monitoring is a cornerstone of diabetes management, enabling individuals to understand how their diet, physical activity, medication, and other factors affect their blood sugar. The primary tool for BZSK is a blood glucose meter, commonly known as a glucometer.

Using a glucometer typically involves pricking a small sample of blood from the fingertip with a lancet and then applying this blood drop to a disposable test strip. The test strip is inserted into the glucometer, which then analyzes the blood sample and displays the glucose reading within seconds. The frequency and timing of these measurements are usually determined in consultation with a healthcare professional and depend on the type of diabetes, treatment plan, and individual circumstances.

Regular BZSK provides valuable data that helps individuals and their doctors make informed decisions about adjusting insulin dosages, oral medications, diet, and exercise. This proactive approach aims to keep blood glucose levels within a target range, thereby reducing the risk of both short-term complications like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney problems, and eye issues. In some cases, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are used, which provide real-time glucose readings throughout the day and night without the need for frequent finger pricks.