Why Does Glucometer Sugar Reading Differ from Lab Report?

"Glucometer shows sugar as 140, but lab report shows 170? Which one is correct?"

Is something wrong? Here are some reasons why these readings may differ:

1. Different types of blood samples: Glucometers use capillary blood (from fingertips), whereas labs use venous blood (from veins).

2. Timing of sugar measurement: Even slight changes in the time of testing can cause differences.

3. Not washing hands before testing: This can cause inaccurate glucometer readings.

4. Lab measurements are more accurate. Glucometers can have a variation of +/- 10-15%, which is acceptable.

5. This difference happens to everyone, not just you! It is normal and not a cause for worry.

Dr Ravindra L Kulkarni Just For Hearts