Have you been diagnosed with diabetes, or are you worried that you might have it? Having accurate test results is essential for diagnosing the condition and learning to manage it. In this blog, we’ll look at the various types of tests available to diagnose or monitor diabetes and discuss their benefits. By understanding all the options out there, hopefully, you will know what to expect when you undergo these tests.
Random Blood Sugar Test
Most often performed as part of a routine physical exam or following a diagnosis of diabetes, a random blood sugar test is the analysis of a single drop of blood taken at any given moment. It determines the amount of glucose circulating in the bloodstream at that moment and provides an indication of how well the body is managing glucose levels.
Results over 126 milligrams per deciliter indicate diabetes or pre-diabetes, while levels below 135 indicate that you have glucose levels that most likely are in an optimal range.
While this test generally serves as an early warning sign for diabetes, it’s important to keep in mind that single tests are not definitive, nor do they guarantee someone will develop this serious chronic health condition if their results fall outside the normal range.
A1C Test
A1C tests, also known as glycated hemoglobin tests, provide an accurate way for doctors to measure the average blood glucose levels of a patient over the past 90 days. A1C tests are especially helpful for managing diabetes, as patients with this condition need to routinely check their blood sugar levels in order to make sure that it is kept under control.
The test involves taking a sample of blood from a patient and analyzing it to determine the amount of glycated hemoglobin (a type of protein found in blood) that is present. The result of the test will show what their average level of blood sugar has been over the past three months. However, it is important to understand that this number only provides an average, not an exact measurement at a certain time.
Therefore, those who are diagnosed with diabetes should still monitor their daily numbers closely and consult their doctor if they have any concerns or questions.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test
A fasting blood sugar test is a simple and quickmedical test done to measure a person’s blood sugar levels. The test must be done after the individual has fasted for 8-10 hours, so no foods or drinks (other than plain water) is consumed during this time.
During the test, a small sample of blood will be taken from a vein in the arm and analyzed in a lab. After completing the fasting blood sugar test, it may be necessary to perform further tests to determine if improvement is needed through diabetes management.
Glucose Tolerance Test
During a glucose tolerance test (GTT), blood sugar levels are measured after consuming a special beverage mixed with glucose. The patient usually fasts prior to the test and then drinks the sweet solution containing about 75–100 grams of glucose. The health care provider takes blood samples at timed intervals to measure if the body can process glucose properly.
An abnormally high glucose level means there is an impaired ability to turn glucose into energy, which can indicate diabetes or prediabetes.
Think you or your loved one might be at a risk of developing diabetes? Contact the office of Community Concierge Care in Washington, D.C. at (202) 888-6440 to get specialized medical advice today or send us a message stating your concern.
