Our body runs on energy and that energy is derived from sugar. Sugar is a general terminology which is used for various types of sugars which we consume namely glucose, fructose, galactose and many other forms. All the other forms of sugars are converted into glucose which basically serves as the energy provider for the body and the brain cells. Any type of sugar is converted into glucose which is later metabolized in the human body releasing energy.
Why is blood glucose test performed ?
With the ever-changing lifestyle habits and diet modification, lifestyle diseases like diabetes are on the high rise. Earlier where genetics used to play a major role in an individual to acquire diabetes from their parents, nowadays unhealthy eating and consumption of alcohol and sugary liquids has greatly increased the number of people affected with diabetes. A glucose test is performed not just to diagnose diabetes, but is also performed to monitor the diabetes treatment, address other symptoms like confusion/doubt, affected vision, dizziness or recently noticed seizures and increased urination frequency. A blood glucose test can be performed in a normal individual as a regular checkup to monitor the blood sugar levels, an individual who is affected with either Type 1 (insulin is not produced in the body) or Type 2 diabetes (insulin is not used appropriately in the body), in pregnant women to check blood sugar levels and to monitor the treatment in individuals who are being treated for either of the types of diabetes.
What are the types of blood glucose tests ?
Blood glucose tests can be either done after a meal, after fasting for 8 hours, randomly or after the consumption of glucose. The post prandial blood glucose test is performed two hours after you have consumed a regular meal. The fasting blood glucose test is performed after an eight-hour fasting or usually early morning after an overnight fast. Random blood sugar test can be done any time during the day. Oral glucose tolerance testing is done after you are given about 75gms of glucose and the test is performed after one and two hours. If your doctor might be suspecting gestational diabetes you might have to consume 50-100gms of glucose and give blood samples at one and two-hour interval. Blood glucose tests are also done to check if you have hypoglycemia (reduced glucose in the body). HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) is a blood test to identify the glucose which is a attached to the red blood cells. It can be used to diagnose or monitor diabetes.
How is a blood glucose test performed ?
A blood glucose test is performed either in a medical laboratory or random testing can be done with the help of commercial glucose monitoring kits available in a medical store near you. The blood required is collected by a technician or a pathologist from your forearm and the serum is separated. The serum is then analyzed for the glucose levels. Plasma is also preferred method of blood glucose testing.
Who interprets the results ?
A pathologist interprets the blood glucose tests usually in half a days’ time or depending upon the laboratory policy for delivering reports.
What are the reference ranges for the blood glucose test ?
As per American Diabetes Association, the diagnosis of diabetes can be made if fasting glucose is at-least 126mg/dL or more by repeated testing, or random blood sugar is 200mg/dL or more.
The normal range for Fasting Plasma Glucose levels should be in the range of 70-100 mg/dl
Post prandial plasma glucose levels 2 hours after meals should be lesser than 140 mg/dl
Any glucose value less than 60mg/dL is suggestive of hypoglycemia.
Hemoglobin A1c ( HbA1c ) or glycohemoglobin, measures how much sugar (glucose) is stuck to red blood cells. Values of 6.5% (48mmol/mol) or above are suggestive of diabetes.
What other conditions can affect blood glucose levels ?
Blood glucose can be higher than normal in individuals who have pancreatic diseases (cancer or infection), thyroid gland over activity or in individuals who are stressed. On the other hand, blood glucose levels, can be lesser than normal in individuals who have adrenal gland diseases, pituitary gland diseases, less active thyroid gland, tumor of the pancreas causing excess of insulin the body, liver disease, kidney disease, less appetite and strenuous exercise. Certain medications can also affect the blood glucose levels; hence it is important to discuss your medical and drug history with your physician in detail.
Are there any risks associated with blood glucose testing ?
Blood glucose testing is a safe procedure. But some individuals might have issues like bruising
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
