Diabetes Notes Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I will be traveling soon and will need to bring diabetic supplies. What type of information will I need to pass airplane security?

The ADA has posted the most recent rules on their website. Make sure you have the pre-printed prescription labels on all your vials of insulin. If you will be traveling internationally, contact your air carrier.

Question: I am trying to test my blood glucose level, but can't seem to get a good size drop of blood. Any suggestions?

There are lots of things that you can do:
• Drink a glass of water 15 minutes before you test.
• Hold your hand down at your side for a while which should help with the blood flow.
• Put your hand in warm water for a small amount of time. (Make sure your hand is dry before you test.)
• "Milk" the blood out of your finger, by starting to press near the knuckle, and then pressing as you move closer to the lanced area.
• Some lancets are thinner than others. You may need to purchase a lancet with wider needles. Also, some auto-lancet devices have a dial so you can choose a deeper poke.

Question: Is there a easy formula to convert HbA1c to BG and vice versa?

Blood Sugar in mg/dl units
HbA1c = ((Blood Sugar - 60) / 30) + 4
Blood Sugar = ((HbA1c - 4) x 30) + 60

If you want a simple chart, try the Lifescan site.

Question: How do I convert mg/dl blood glucose readings to mmol/L?

(mg/dl reading)/18 = mmol/L reading
mmol/L reading x 18 = mg/dl reading
Lifescan has a handy form that can convert from one measurement to the other here.

Links

CDC's FAQ page on Diabetes