There are currently 3.2 million people in the UK diagnosed with diabetes and many are unaware they have it. Diabetes happens when the pancreas doesn’t produce insulin (Type 1), or it doesn’t produce enough of it (Type 2). Insulin is needed to use glucose from food as fuel for energy. As a result, glucose builds up in the blood, not being used as fuel, as well as being damaging to your organs. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2; Type 2 being the most common.
Diabetes is however a very manageable condition with medication and lifestyle changes, but if it is left untreated can cause complications like kidney failure and blindness. It is therefore really important to regularly monitor your blood glucose levels.
To do this, a blood glucose test is carried out to find out how much glucose you have in your blood. This provides a good indication on your risk for diabetes, as well as the effectiveness of the medication and lifestyle changes. The test can be done by your GP or at your local pharmacy.
Here at Dermacia Pharmacy in Islington, we offer blood glucose tests that are carried out through a simple finger prick test to assess your glucose levels. The test is very easy and quick, and our trained Pharmacist carries it out. So, if you live in or around North London, particularly Islington, come visit us at our Pharmacy; we are open 7 days a week. You will also have the opportunity to discuss your results with the pharmacists, and receive advice on what you can do to manage your condition.