Blood sugar test
.Blood Sugar Test: Everything You Need To Know
A blood sugar test is a key way to assess your health. It shows how much sugar (glucose) you have in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar that comes from carbohydrates you eat and is your body's main source of energy. Too much or too little glucose in your blood can be dangerous, so being aware of your blood sugar levels is an important measure for maintaining your health.
Preparation for Blood Sugar Test
Your doctor will likely give you instructions on how to prepare for a blood sugar test. Generally preparation might include:
- Fasting for eight to twelve hours before the test
- Avoiding food, drinks, and smoking
- Stopping prescribed medications and supplements before the test
Blood Sugar Test Procedure
Your doctor will use a specialized needle and syringe to draw a small sample of your blood. The sample size can vary, but is typically about 5 milliliters (mL). After the needle is in your vein, the doctor will fill the syringe with blood and move it to a test tube. The sample will then be sent off for analysis. The entire process should take 10 to 15 minutes.
Types of Blood Sugar Tests
There are a number of blood sugar tests that can be done. Below are the most commonly used tests:
- Fasting blood sugar test: Also called a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, it’s done first thing in the morning after fasting overnight. A normal fasting blood sugar range is 70 to 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
- Random blood sugar test: This test measures your blood sugar at any point during the day regardless of when you last ate. A normal random blood sugar range is 80 to 180 mg/dL.
- Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test: This measures your average blood sugar level over two to three months. A normal A1C range for someone without diabetes is below 5.7 percent.
- Oral glucose tolerance test: This tests your blood sugar before and two hours after you drink a sugary liquid. A normal two-hour blood sugar range is below 140 mg/dL.
Risks of a Blood Sugar Test
Blood sugar tests are generally safe and pose minimal risks. Possible risks include:
- Bleeding or infection at the needle site
- Low blood sugar levels due to fasting
- Fainting during the tes
Why Have a Blood Sugar Test Done?
Your doctor may suggest doing a blood sugar test if they’ve noticed symptoms of high or low blood sugar levels. Symptoms of high blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia, may include:
- Blurry vision
- Increased urination
- Extreme thirst or hunger
- Fatigue
Symptoms of low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, may include:
- Anxiety or confusion
- Sweating
- Blurred vision
- Tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue
When Should I Have a Blood Sugar Test?
It's always advisable to consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. They'll be able to determine if you need to have a blood sugar test done, taking into account your past health records and risk factors.
If your doctor suggests you get a blood sugar test done, it's important to go and get it done. It can help unveil a lot about your health, and if you suffer from diabetes, regular and accurate tests can play an essential role in managing your condition.