What is Blood Glucose Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a blood glucose test?
It measures the level of glucose (sugar) present in the blood.
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What is blood glucose?
Blood glucose is the sugar present in the bloodstream, which is the main source of energy for all body cells. It comes from the metabolism of carbohydrates present in food and drinks. Insulin is the main hormone, secreted by the pancreas responsible for keeping blood glucose in normal range.
What is it used for?
It plays a significant role in diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.
Why is it done?
Your doctor may advise you to get your blood sugar level checked if you are having symptoms of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
The symptoms of high blood glucose or hyperglycemia include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Numbness or tingling in the feet
- Wounds that take time to heal
The symptoms of low blood glucose or hypoglycemia include:
- Trembling or shaky feeling
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Seizures
- Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
- Anxiety
What is the normal range of blood glucose (fasting blood sugar)?
The units of measurement of blood glucose are mg/dl.
A normal fasting blood glucose level is 70 to 99 mg/dl
What does high blood glucose mean?
If your fasting blood sugar level is between 100 – 125 mg/dl, it indicates a prediabetic stage. The further progression of this stage to Type 2 Diabetes mellitus can be prevented here with diet and lifestyle modifications.
If the fasting blood glucose level is more than 125 mg/dl it indicates, you have diabetes.
In both these cases, the HBA1c (glycated haemoglobin) test should be done to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the causes of high blood glucose levels?
If your blood sugar level is high, it means you may have or are at risk of developing diabetes. The causes can be:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pancreas disorder
- Trauma
- Surgery stress
- Adrenal gland disorders like Cushing syndrome
What does low blood glucose mean?
If your fasting blood glucose level is less than 70 mg/dl, it is hypoglycemia.
If you have diabetes either Type 1 or Type 2, the lower blood glucose level indicates:
- Side effects of medications
- Not taking proper diet
- Physical exertion
If you don’t have diabetes, the lower blood glucose level indicates:
- Liver disorder
- Kidney disorder
- Hypothyroidism
- Excessive alcoholism (AUD)
- Adrenal insufficiency
