AN OVERVIEW
About fasting blood sugar test
Why is the fasting blood sugar test done?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as an increased hunger and thirst, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, or tingling in your hands or feet, you can go for the fasting blood sugar test.
What does the fasting blood sugar test measure?
Fasting blood sugar (FBS) test measures our blood glucose levels after observing a fast for at least 8 hours and can be used to diagnose conditions such as prediabetes and diabetes.
The hormone insulin is required for allowing the glucose to enter our cells. It also helps in maintaining our blood glucose levels. When sufficient insulin is not produced by the pancreas or when the produced insulin isnt efficiently utilised by our body, diabetes can occur. Elevated blood sugar levels can even gradually damage our neurons and blood vessels.
- Diabetes type 1
Type 1 diabetes (also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes, or childhood diabetes) occurs due to inadequate insulin production by the pancreas.
- Diabetes Type 2
Type 2 diabetes (also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes) is caused when the body is unable to properly use insulin for energy production. Type 2 diabetes affects more than 95 percent of those diagnosed with diabetes. Major causes include physical inactivity and an increased body weight.
- Diabetes during pregnancy
Diabetes that develops during pregnancy is known as gestational diabetes. Women with gestational diabetes are likely to experience complications during pregnancy and delivery. These women and their children are also at risk to develop type 2 diabetes in the future. It is detected through prenatal screening.
Risks/side effects of fasting blood sugar test
There are usually no side effects or risks associated with a fasting blood sugar test. However, you might feel some pain for a few days in the area from where the blood will be taken using a needle. You can cover the same area with a bandaid to prevent infections from developing.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
When is a fasting blood sugar test performed?
Fasting blood sugar test can be performed:
- For examining yourself for prediabetes and diabetes.
- For tracking the progress of diabetes treatment.
- For examining gestational diabetes.
- For examining low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) and its causes.
- For examining insulin levels.
- For examining C-peptide protein levels.
How to prepare for the fasting blood sugar test?
Do not eat or drink anything other than water for at least 8 hours before the blood sample is obtained for a fasting blood sugar test. Do consult your doctor regarding whether you can or cannot take a hypoglycemic agent (insulin or oral medicine) before the test as well.
How is the fasting blood sugar test performed?
The fasting blood sugar test is performed by collecting your blood sample from the veins using an injection. The area from where the blood would be withdrawn would be first cleaned using some alcohol. You can later cover it with a gauze pad. The fasting blood sugar test can be done either at a hospital, laboratory, or clinic. Home collection services are also available.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the fasting blood sugar test results
Reference range: 70-100mg/dl
- Normal fasting blood glucose (or blood sugar) levels range between 70 and 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). Thus, you do not have diabetes if your test results fall within this range.
- Fasting glucose levels of 110125 mg/dl indicate impaired fasting glucose (i.e., prediabetes).
- Diabetes is diagnosed when two different blood tests indicate that your fasting blood glucose level is more than or equal to 126 mg/dl.
Do follow the course of treatment advised by your doctor for controlling diabetes to prevent further serious ailments.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 20*
The fasting blood sugar test keeps a check on our blood glucose levels after not consuming anything for a couple of hours. Blood glucose is a form of sugar transmitted through the blood to all our cells for energy production. Blood sugar must remain in its normal levels to avoid the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Read further to know about the fasting blood sugar test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, preparation, side effects, understanding the test results, etc.
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