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Type 1 diabetes supplies to always have on hand
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) requires daily management, but over time, you naturally develop routines and learn what to expect from different situations and scenarios related to the condition. As you discover what works best for you, you establish healthy habits.
However, life events, such as pursuing a new career, moving to a new area or meeting someone special, can force you to step outside of your daily routine and comfort zone. Though these milestones can be exciting, they can also require you to update — or totally abandon — some of your previous routines. Thankfully, keeping a few type 1 diabetes supplies within reach can help you feel comfortable and protect against potential problems.
Here's a rundown of the items you may want to keep on hand, as they can help you manage diabetes no matter what life throws your way.
The basics (and backups)
It's important to tailor your supplies to who you are. Living with T1D means you have unique needs and have to approach some situations differently than others. But some basics are a must: Keep your medical ID with you whenever possible, and wear it with pride. Emergency responders are trained to look for medical alert IDs when responding to emergencies, so wearing one can save precious time.
It's also a good idea to keep some backup supplies on hand in the event you need to deal with a high or low while out and about. Pack a few fast-acting glucose tabs, sugary snacks or bottles of fruit juice to help regulate your levels. Fast-acting carbohydrates help raise blood glucose when levels fall due to exercise, strenuous activity or random blood sugar events. Finally, bring along a few batteries in case your insulin pump begins to run low on power.
Testing devices and accessories
In addition to a medical ID, items for regulating blood sugar and extra batteries, it's crucial to have testing supplies on hand. As someone living with T1D, testing your blood sugar is a necessity — and should be done often.
To ensure your health whenever (and wherever) you are, it helps to bring along a blood glucose meter, lancets and plenty of test strips. Also, in the event your blood glucose drops to dangerous levels, it's wise to bring an emergency glucagon shot. This can be used to treat extreme hypoglycemia and can be administered by someone else if you're unable to.
If you are on an insulin pump, take additional syringes or insulin pens and pen needles so you can maintain your levels in the event your pump malfunctions or loses power. If you are on multiple daily injections or shots, take extras.
Insulin (that's properly stored)
Taking extended trips or planning to be away from home for longer than usual will naturally require a few more supplies, as you want to know you're covered while traveling. Bringing insulin is a must. Make sure to pack the right kind and amount, depending on your daily management needs.
It's also a good idea to have a cooling case to protect it from extreme temperatures. The proteins in insulin can be damaged by high and low temperatures, so it's crucial to store it properly! If you are unsure you'll be able to keep your insulin from getting too hot or cold while traveling, consider reaching out to the diabetes community — through online forums or social media networks — to connect with someone who's willing to help.
A continuous glucose monitor
A real game change in diabetes care is the continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and many advancements in CGM technology have been made since they initially launched.
In fact, technology in the Dexcom G4 proved accurate enough to run the early prototype bionic pancreas a few years ago. The technology has only continued to advance, and the Dexcom G6 has replaced glucose meters and test strips — it doesn't even require calibrations from a glucose meter.
An exciting feature of CGM technology is the ability to track blood sugar levels (and share information with friends and loved ones) using an app. If you have a smartphone, you can use the app to spot trends and share your glucose numbers with any person you choose, anywhere in the world. If, for some reason, you experience an issue and cannot respond yourself, the people following your glucose trends through the app can reach out for help on your behalf. There is a bit of a learning curve with CGMs, but your endocrinologist and certified diabetes educator can assist you with the transition.
When your career and personal life are flourishing, your health should be, too. Type 1 diabetes should never stand between you and the joys of life!
Interested in browsing type 1 diabetes supplies online and having them delivered to your home? Explore the Edgepark website to learn about its wide range of offerings, and place an order today.
