What is a fasting insulin serum 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 fasting insulin serum test?
This is a test which measures the amount of insulin in serum which is usually performed after 8 hours of fasting.
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What is insulin?
Beta cells of the pancreas produce a hormone called insulin which converts carbohydrates in food into glucose and then the glucose formed is absorbed in the blood. So, insulin is released by the pancreas whenever glucose levels are high in the blood and moves the excess glucose to cells and the liver where it gets stored as glycogen.
What is the normal range of serum insulin?
The normal range of fasting insulin in serum is 2 mIU/ml – 20 mIU/ml
What are the other names for this test?
Other names of the test include:
- Insulin serum
- Fasting insulin
- Total and free insulin
What is the use of insulin serum test?
This test is used in:
- Finding the cause of hypoglycemia
- Monitor type 2 diabetes patients
- Diagnose pancreatic tumours
- Monitoring and diagnosing insulin resistance
What are the symptomatic indications for serum insulin test?
This test is ordered if the following are present:
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Trembling
- Extreme hunger
- Irregular heart rate
- Blurred vision
What if insulin levels are low?
The following may be present if insulin levels are low:
- Insulin resistance
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Pancreatic tumor (Insulinoma)
- Hypoglycemia
What if insulin levels are high?
The following may be present if insulin levels are Low:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Pancreatitis
- Hyperglycemia
What are the preparations to be done before an insulin fasting test?
Preparations done before the test are not to drink or eat anything 8 hours before the test.
What are the other tests done along with it?
Other tests done with this include:
- Fasting blood sugar
- Fructosamine
- HbA1c
- Peptide
What are the risks of insulin fasting tests?
There are no risks except for slight bruising at the site from where blood is drawn.
