Getting a diabetes diagnosis can be scary at first but isn’t cause for fear. With appropriate self-care, the support of your doctor, and the right medical equipment, you can lead a happy and healthy life with this condition. Make sure you have these must-have items at home to keep on thriving.

7 Must-Have Medical Equipment Items for Diabetes Care

1. Blood Sugar Test

Diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to properly manage glucose. Keeping an eye on your blood sugar is easy to do at home. Use a finger prick test or flash glucose monitor to ensure you’re within your personal safe zone.

2. Insulin & Cooler

If your diabetes management plan requires insulin injections, you need to always have this medication on hand. An insulin syringe or pen is optimal. For maximum efficacy, keep the substance chilled using an insulin cooler.

3. Alcohol Wipes

If you give yourself insulin injections, use alcohol wipes to disinfect the skin beforehand. This decreases the risk of infection. Since diabetes usually leads to reduced immune function, this is an essential item.

4. Sharps Container

After giving yourself an insulin shot, dispose of the needles in a sharps container. Simply throwing them in the garbage poses a health hazard, as points can rip garbage bags and harm others.

5. Blood Pressure Cuff

Diabetes is complicated by high blood pressure, increasing your risk of complications like kidney disease. Since blood pressure doesn’t usually present symptoms, track it at home to make sure it’s in check. Modern versions of this standard piece of medical equipment even offer electronic readings for easy use.

6. Diabetes Organizer

Store all of the odds and ends you need to stay healthy in a diabetes organizer. With special pouches and zip-pockets, it holds everything from blood-sugar meters to insulin.

7. Glucose Tablets

When your blood sugar is low, you may feel woozy or light-headed. A dose of glucose in the form of tablets is a quick fix. A juice box is another effective option.

For your diabetes care needs in Princeton, WV, head to Hickman's Pharmacy. Locally owned and operated, this pharmacy has kept the community healthy since 1947. Their team will always take the time to answer questions and provide the personalized insights you deserve when it comes to your health. Get a full overview of their prescription services and medical equipment online. For questions, call (304) 425-2188.