Skip to main content Skip to search

Archives for Diabetes

Blood Glucose Meter

Choosing a Blood Glucose Meter

Anyone that has diabetes will need to test their blood multiple times each day using test strips and a glucose meter. There are a wide variety of monitors from which to choose and selecting one can be confusing. Monitors encompass basic models to those with special features and they’re available in multiple price points.

When choosing a monitor, factor in the cost of test strips. Test strips aren’t interchangeable among different brands of monitors and will account for a significant amount of the cost of managing the disease. Some elements to consider when choosing a monitor include the following.

Insurance

Some insurance companies will cover the cost of any type of monitor, while others will only cover certain models. Insurers may pay the total cost of a monitor or only a portion and limit the number of test strips allowed each month. In some instances, it may be less expensive to pay for a monitor and/or test strips out of pocket.

Ease of Use

Make sure the face is large enough and the numbers are easy to read. The monitor should fit easily in the hand. Consider how large the drop of blood has to be for testing.

Types

Glucose monitors are available in traditional models that require a finger prick to test with a drop of blood, while other enable blood samples to be taken from other parts of the body. People can also choose a model that uses an adhesive sensor on the skin and sends continuous readings to a monitor, smartphone or smart watch.

Special Features

Meters are available with memory storage and retrieval that can help people track their glucose levels over time, along with models that will vocalize the readings out loud. Others will record the time and date of testing, the results and show trends over time. There are also monitors that allow individuals to download their readings and history to a cell phone or computer and send it to their physician.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
type 1 diabetes

Can Adults Develop Type 1 Diabetes?

For decades, Type 1 diabetes was called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. Much more is known about the disease now and it is possible for adults to develop Type 1 diabetes at any point in their life.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas manufactures too little insulin or none at all. Insulin is a hormone that enables sugar to enter the body’s cells to produce energy for performing various tasks. While diabetes can be caused by poor lifestyle choices, it most often occurs in families with a history of the disease.

However, medical science now knows that diabetes can be triggered by any of multiple types of viral infections. Researchers have also discovered that the prevalence of Type 1 diabetes increases the further away from the equator that an individual is. The immune system fights viruses, bacterial and fungal infections, but in diabetes it destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Many people erroneously believe that only children are afflicted with Type 1 diabetes. That misinformation can cause people to ignore the early warning signs of the disease and delay treatment. Individuals with diabetes will experience increased thirst, frequent urination and extreme hunger. Irritability, fatigue, and weakness can also occur, along with blurred vision and unintended weight loss.

The complications of untreated and unmanaged diabetes are severe and can lead to an early death. It drastically increases the risk of heart disease, narrowing of the arteries, and high blood pressure. Nerve damage, especially in the legs, causes numbness, tingling and pain. Neuropathy can also affect the digestive system resulting in nausea, vomiting and constipation or diarrhea.

The disease damages the eyes and can lead to blindness. Diabetes damages the kidneys, inhibits its ability to filter impurities from the blood, and can eventually lead to kidney failure. People with diabetes are more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, particularly of the mouth and skin, along with gum disease.

There’s no cure for Type 1 diabetes, no way to prevent it, and no way to determine exactly who will develop the disease. Even if an individual is eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, they can still develop the disease.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
rising cost of diabetes

The Rising Cost of Living with Diabetes

The economic cost to individuals with diabetes continues to increase. It’s the most expensive chronic disease in the U.S. to treat and it’s the 7th leading cause of death. It doesn’t matter whether individuals have Type 1, Type 2 or gestational diabetes, the cost of treatment and management is significant.

Genetics

It’s important that people understand that while lifestyle choices can contribute to the development of diabetes, there are other factors at play. Genetics play a significant role and a variety of viruses can trigger the immune system to attack the cells in the pancreas that enable cells to use glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. The result is diabetes.

Rising Costs

There are numerous reasons for the increase in costs, the primary of which is that pharmaceutical companies are charging more for their products. They’re transitioning from older forms of insulin to newer types and claim the higher prices are necessary to pay for the cost of developing it.

Insulin is essentially a cash cow for pharmaceutical companies that know people with diabetes must have insulin to live. The U.S. represents 15 percent of the insulin market globally but generates 50 percent of the industry’s revenue.

Affordability

Diabetic-related costs are taking a high toll on people with the disease, mentally, physically and financially. Many individuals can’t afford the test strips or insulin they need to monitor and manage the disease and it’s not just the uninsured and underinsured feeling the effects. Insurance companies are demanding that clients pick up a larger share of the costs through higher co-pays.

The American Diabetes Association gives the estimated cost of diabetes in 2017 – the last year for which statistics are available – as $327 billion, an increase of 26 percent over the previous 5 years. The situation is so dire in the U.S. that an increasing number of people are traveling to Canada to obtain the insulin and supplies they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more

Should you Tell your Employer you’re Diabetic?

The line between disclosure of medical conditions in relation to employment is a thin one. Employers can’t ask about medical conditions before they offer you a job. They can after you’ve accepted a position, but employers can’t retaliate for not disclosing it after you’re hired.

You don’t have to disclose information about your disease if you don’t want to, however, he/she will find out if you opt for employer-provided insurance coverage and you’ll only receive protection under anti-discrimination laws if you reveal the information. If the hiring process includes a pre-hire physical or if the condition could present a threat to you or others within the workplace, you need to disclose.

Diabetes presents a few challenges in any employment environment, some more than others. You may need accommodations that fall under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). That can include the ability to keep snacks and diabetic equipment with you or at your desk, along with breaks to monitor glucose levels and a private space to administer insulin if needed. It can also include a safe place to rest if you have a hypoglycemic episode.

Under the ADA, employer accommodations can include time off for diabetes-related medical treatment of up to 12 weeks through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and recovery time due to diabetes complications. Your work schedule may need to be modified if it interferes with controlling the disease. Special chairs or other equipment may be required if you have neuropathy or large-screen computers if your vision has been impaired due to diabetes.

The short answer is that you don’t have to disclose to an employer that you have diabetes, but there are benefits to doing so under the ADA. You should be aware that there are employers that won’t hire you because of diabetes out of a myriad of misconceptions and fear of expense or workplace disruption. However, proving it was a factor in your job loss is almost impossible.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
dehydration

Dehydration and Diabetes

Proper hydration is critical for those with diabetes, but even those that have had the disease for many years aren’t aware of the consequences of dehydration. Those with diabetes are at increased risk of dehydration, particularly those with high glucose levels. It’s just one of the reasons that frequent testing is essential, particularly those that live in hot and humid climates. Dehydration can be life-threatening.

Dehydration is especially dangerous for people with type 2 diabetes. A lack of hydration causes blood pressure to plummet. In response, the body secretes stress hormones that have the ability to increase blood sugar levels. Individuals often inject too much insulin as a result.

The first symptoms of dehydration are thirst and dry mouth, but the symptoms typically go unnoticed. People that don’t have sufficient liquid intake often feel irritable, sluggish and weak. When diabetics are dehydrated, the body isn’t able to pump enough blood to the brain, heart, muscles and kidneys.

Dehydration impairs all body functions and lowers blood pressure to dangerous levels. For diabetics, even three days without enough liquid consumption results in impaired glucose responses. The stress hormones that are released result in increased urination that further exacerbates dehydration.

Staying hydrated can be a delicate balancing act for people with diabetes and they’re more susceptible to overheating and heat-related conditions. Symptoms encompass dizziness, headaches, nausea and increased heartbeat, along with muscle cramps, profuse sweating and even fainting. Eventually, the person will stop sweating. Individuals need to immediately move to a cooler area, preferably one that’s air-conditioned, and drink fluids – water is best.

Individuals with diabetes have multiple factors to consider to keep their glucose levels in check, ensure proper nutrition, and manage their weight. Proper hydration is another essential element and one of which many people with diabetes aren’t aware. Multiple studies have demonstrated that diabetics that stay sufficiently hydrated have better control of their disease.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more

Don’t Ignore These Symptoms of Diabetes

Even individuals without a family history of diabetes can be diagnosed with the disease. Many people develop diabetes and aren’t aware of it because they don’t know the symptoms or ignore them due to misconceptions. Diabetes affects multiple systems within the body. The symptoms can include any of the following and in any combination.

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Feeling very tired, fatigued or exhausted
  • Feel very hungry
  • Very dry skin
  • Weight loss or gain without trying
  • Blurry vision
  • Itching and yeast infections
  • Patches of dark skin on the neck, groin or armpits that may feel soft and velvety
  • Numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet
  • More infections than usual
  • Even minor wounds heal slower than normal

Type 1 Diabetes

Some people may experience nausea, stomach pains and even vomiting with Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 usually begins when an individual is a child and symptoms can develop over the course of weeks or months. It’s thought to be the result of an immune reaction and often develops after a viral infection. Those most at risk of developing Type 1 diabetes are those with a family history of the disease and it’s more likely to occur when an individual is a child, teen or young adult. It’s most prevalent in Caucasians.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops over the course of several years and typically occurs in adults. People are more at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes if they’re African American, Hispanic, have given birth to a child over 9 lbs., or the mother had gestational diabetes. Those age 45 and over, who have been diagnosed as prediabetic, are overweight, or seldom exercise are at increased risk. So are people with a family history of the disease or if they have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Early diagnosis is critical to avoid the damage that diabetes does to the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. The disease can also result in sexual problems in either gender. Knowing the symptoms and early detection can lessen the detrimental impact on the body as individuals learn to monitor and manage the disease.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
diabetes exercize

Does Exercise Help Regulate Blood Sugar?

One of the first things that doctors tell their newly diagnosed diabetic patients is to exercise. Individuals typically think it’s to help them lose weight and be healthier, as many people gain weight prior to getting a diagnosis. The truth is that exercise can help regulate blood glucose levels, but in different ways that most people might think.

Glucose is the energy source the body uses to fuel activity, but it requires insulin for muscles and cells to be able to utilize the glucose. Insulin is injected to aid in controlling blood glucose levels and it also enables muscles to use the glucose that’s in the bloodstream. According to an article published by the American Physiological Society, a single round of exercise can reduce a glucose reading by 83 points.

When people exercise, the muscles use more glucose, the heart rate rises, and circulation can increase up to 20-fold. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively and reduces the potential for developing insulin resistance. Doctors prefer patients to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day, but even 30 minutes of exercise three times a week is beneficial.

The good news is that no one needs to run a marathon to reap the benefits of exercise when they’re diabetic, nor do they need to run repetitive circles around a track. The first task for anyone is to find a form of exercise that they enjoy so they’re more likely to do it on a regular basis. That can include swimming, dancing, biking, gardening, a brisk walk or even yoga.

There is one thing that individuals should be aware of when exercising. As the body uses more glucose to fuel the muscles, it will naturally lower blood glucose levels. The potential exists for blood sugar levels to drop too low. It’s a good idea to eat a light snack before exercising or at least keep a snack available just in case it’s needed.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more

Signs of a Diabetic Emergency

Few people know the signs of a diabetic emergency, how dangerous it can be, or what to do. Most diabetics will experience the symptoms of low glucose levels at some point in their battle with the disease. An extremely low blood glucose level is known as hypoglycemia and can be deadly if not treated immediately.

Individuals with a diabetic emergency may experience a range of mental and physical symptoms. They often feel hungry, sweat profusely, feel weak or faint, and their skin can feel clammy to the touch. When diabetics have blood glucose levels below 100, they can exhibit drowsiness or mental confusion. If glucose levels drop too far, individuals can become unresponsive and lose consciousness.

Most diabetics are adept at avoiding an emergency situation, but those that are newly diagnosed may not recognize the signs. Glucose levels that drop too low while sleeping is a constant and ongoing fear for many individuals with the disease. They don’t typically expect the condition to arise during the day.

Administering first aid in a diabetic emergency is essential. Many individuals keep a glucagon kit with them at all times for just such an occasion. It’s available in the form of a powder nasal spray or as a pen that’s an injectable. It’s imperative that individuals ensure that family and friends know how to use either type of kit in an emergency and that they should call 911 immediately.

If the individual doesn’t have a glucagon kit, but is conscious and responsive, give them something sweet to eat or a non-diet beverage such as orange juice, soda or lemonade. It will take several minutes for the sugar to take effect. If this is the first time that the individual has experienced an episode of hypoglycemia, try to reassure them.

Hypoglycemia occurs when a person misses a meal or doesn’t eat enough. It’s one of the reasons why individuals with the disease must check their glucose levels regularly. An episode of hypoglycemia can be frightening for everyone involved. Keeping calm and administering aid can save a life.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
Blood Glucose Meter

Why are Diabetic Supplies so Expensive?

Anyone that’s ever needed to purchase diabetic supplies knows how expensive they are, even with insurance. From insulin to test strips, costs continue to escalate. Exactly why the cost of diabetic supplies is so expensive depends on who you ask.

According to manufacturers, the cost of diabetic supplies reflects the cost of the research and development that went into the products, and the ultimate value to patients. Those companies also cite the complexities of their supply chains for elevated prices along with a lengthy and expensive testing process required by the FDA.

The truth is somewhat different. Pharmaceutical companies make the products and there are no laws or restrictions on what they can set the price at. Additionally, the companies don’t have to disclose the formula they use to set those prices and there are no price controls in the U.S. like there are in other countries.

When it comes to diabetic supplies, it’s the Wild West and the sky is the limit on what pharmaceutical companies can charge. They’re under no obligation to negotiate prices or disclose discounts agreed upon with Pharmacy Benefit Managers. It often leaves diabetics with few options and no guarantee that what they can obtain is in line with their treatment or doctor’s orders.

Pharmaceutical companies can – and do – charge as much as the market will allow. It’s the nature of a capitalistic system. The result is that many individuals that are uninsured or uninsured are turning to older and cheaper types of insulin that are also less effective than newer options.

The exorbitant pricing doesn’t stop at insulin. Diabetic test strips are essential tools for monitoring and managing the disease. Test strips are incredible feats of engineering for measuring blood glucose levels. However, each manufacturer’s test strips will only work with the corresponding monitor – also made by the same pharmaceutical company.

The bottom line on costs for diabetic supplies is that the FDA has no power to regulate pharmaceutical companies and the federal government doesn’t want to get involved. Until comprehensive changes are implemented, individuals will continue to travel to Canada for insulin and make use of third-party test strip sellers in the U.S. for the life saving products they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more

Reducing Your Risk for Diabetes as you Age

A number of changes take place as you age, which includes the potential to develop diabetes. It’s important to understand that not all people will be diagnosed with diabetes as they age. However, medical science indicates that adults age 45 and over are at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic functioning due to age-related causes.

There are some elements that affect the risk of developing diabetes at any age and they’re factors that you have no control over. They include behaviors of the past or a genetic predisposition to it. A sedentary lifestyle or a close relative with diabetes are also risk factors.

The highly respected Mayo Clinic suggests that everyone take preventative steps as they age to avoid being diagnosed with the disease. It’s especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. It’s never too late to begin a healthier routine that can aid in preventing the disease.

Diet

Eating smart to prevent diabetes is as simple as consuming more fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and fiber. Those simple changes will aid in weight loss and improving your sensitivity to insulin. Portion size is an important part of reducing the potential for diabetes. It’s better to eat several smaller meals than large meals that will spike glucose levels.

Severely limit sugary drinks such as soda and alcoholic beverages, along with fast food and refined carbohydrates. Drink plenty of water and make it your beverage of choice – add slices of lemon for flavor to make it more appealing. Vitamin D plays a role in glucose control and improves the function of insulin-producing cells.

Exercise

One of the factors connected with diabetes is weight gain. Aerobic exercise is an excellent way to stay fit and burn extra calories. The exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or extreme – brisk walks or swimming are good forms of exercise. Swimming uses every muscle in the body and water has the ability to lessen the pull of gravity on the body, making exercise easier for those with joint or bone conditions.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Read more
0
Your Cart
Skip to content