Q. Why is a glucose fasting test important?
A glucose fasting test is important because it helps assess a person's risk for serious health problems, like diabetes and other glucose metabolism disorders. It also helps monitor blood sugar levels over time in people with diabetes.
Q. How do I prepare for a glucose fasting test?
To prepare for this test, do not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. It is also important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some of them can affect blood glucose levels and may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test.
Q. What are the risks associated with a fasting blood sugar test?
The risks associated with a fasting blood sugar test are generally minimal. However, some people may experience mild pain or discomfort at the site from where the blood sample is taken.
Q. Can I take a glucose fasting test during pregnancy?
Yes, glucose fasting test is commonly used during pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
Q. What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia include: Excessive sweating, frequent hunger, shivering or trembling, confusion and blurring of vision
Q. What are the risk factors for diabetes?
Diabetes can be caused by various reasons. The most common risk factors for diabetes include being obese or overweight with low physical activity, having a blood relative diagnosed with Diabetes, or having been diagnosed with hypertension. Other reasons which can cause diabetes could be low High-Density Lipoproteins or high triglyceride levels, being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or having been diagnosed with gestational diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Q. Can factors other than hormones and diet affect my blood sugar levels?
Yes, blood sugar levels can be increased by certain medications, during pregnancy, and even temporarily due to stress.
Q. What are the common complications of diabetes?
Diabetes causes an increase in blood sugar levels. Increased sugar levels, if not controlled, can cause severe damage to the muscles and nerves. This may give rise to a number of complications over a period of time. Some common complications of uncontrolled diabetes include heart diseases like coronary artery disease, heart attack, diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina) which may cause blindness, diabetic neuropathy (damage to the nerves) at various parts of the body. It may also cause diabetic nephropathy (damage to the kidneys) resulting in chronic loss of kidney function and diabetic foot which can cause foot ulcers that may turn gangrenous. Apart from these, uncontrolled diabetes may also lead to other severe conditions like hearing impairment, a number of skin conditions, and may even lead to death.
Q. What other tests can be prescribed by your doctor in case the result of glucose fasting Glucose test is not normal?
Additional tests that may be prescribed to diagnose diabetes in case of abnormal glucose fasting test result are: Urine Glucose Test, Blood Glucose - Post prandial (PP), Random Blood Glucose Test, Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test or HbA1c Test and Oral Glucose Tolerance Test.
Q. How is the blood sample taken?
The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.
Q. What is hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia refers to a condition where the blood glucose level is above the normal range. This condition may indicate prediabetes or diabetes and may cause significant health problems.
Q. What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia include: Increased thirst, frequent urge to urinate, weakness, tiredness (fatigue), blurring of vision and slow wound healing.
Q. What is hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is the condition where the blood sugar levels fall below normal. This is commonly found in case of nutritional deficiency.