Testing for low blood sugar

I've never tested myself for low/high blood sugar. However, since WLS I've had a few episodes (mostly in the AM) of what seems like low blood sugar. Is there a way to test for that without *****ing my finger? (I saw some ad on TV for some device that does this, but only paid 1/2 attention.) I've read where others suggest we have the ability to do this, as low BS can be dangerous. How do people here test? Thanks in advance. Eileen

Eileen, There are new fancy devices that are in the process of coming out but to my knowledge the only way right now to do this is to ***** your skin and test. Some of the newer meters require very little blood and you can use your forearm where there are less nerve endings to do it and where less blood will come out. You can search the web and find a number of places where you can get the meter for free with the purchase of 100 test strips. The test strips is where the companies make their money. They run usually $.80 to $1.00 each. Can you say OUCH! When diabetic, I tested 4 times a day... before my 3 meals and before bed. I only tested at other times when I was ill. Now, only when feeling "funky". If I feel slow-brained, sweaty, shakey, or out-of-sorts... I test. Other than that... I do not test. The symptoms often described are similar to what folks say are dumping symptoms so if I felt them... I wouldn't assume I was dumping... I'd check my sugar level to see if I was hypoglycemic. I have the FreeStyle Fla**** is very compact, uses very little blood and is one that is advertised. Kathy

Helpful! Thanks, Kathy. E.

Here are links to places where you can get the meter I have for free with purchase of test strips: http://www.drugstore.com/qxp84760_332828_sespider/freestyle/value_pack_free_freestyle_moni tor_included_with_100ct_test_strips_purchase.htm http://www.diabeticexpress.com/content/ProductDetail.aspx?CategoryID=0&SubCategoryID=0&ItemID=01-94 http://www.i-medica.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=DM012&Category_Code= Kathy