Diabetes Tests

Diabetes tests are used to diagnose and monitor diabetes, a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels. The following are some common diabetes tests:

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test

This test measures the level of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast of at least 8 hours. A blood sample is taken and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

• Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Impaired fasting glucose: 100-125 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

This test measures the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels after consuming a sugary drink. A blood sample is taken before and after the drink, usually at 1-2 hour intervals.

• Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL at 2 hours
• Impaired glucose tolerance: 140-199 mg/dL at 2 hours
• Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher at 2 hours

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test

This test measures the average level of glucose in the blood over the past 2-3 months. It does this by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin molecules that have attached to glucose.

• Normal: Less than 5.7%
• Predabetes: 5.7-6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

Random Plasma Glucose Test

This test measures the level of glucose in the blood at any time, regardless of when the last meal was eaten.

• Normal: Less than 200 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher, accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst and urination

Urine Tests

Urine tests can detect the presence of ketones, which are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy instead of glucose. They can also detect protein in the urine, which can be a sign of kidney damage.

Other Tests

Other tests that may be used to diagnose and monitor diabetes include:

• Lipid profile: Measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood
• Blood pressure test: Measures blood pressure
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart
• Foot exam: Checks for signs of nerve damage or poor circulation in the feet

When to Get Tested

The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults with any of the following risk factors get tested for diabetes:

• Overweight or obese
• Physical inactivity
• Family history of diabetes
• History of gestational diabetes or delivering a baby over 9 pounds
• Racial or ethnic background (African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, or Asian American)
• Other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol

Pregnancy and Diabetes Testing

All pregnant women should be screened for gestational diabetes between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Women with risk factors may need to be tested earlier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a diabetes test?
A medical test to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

Why are diabetes tests done?
To measure blood sugar levels and diagnose diabetes.

What are the types of diabetes tests?
Fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance, and random plasma glucose.

How often should diabetes tests be done?
As recommended by a healthcare provider.

What is the fasting plasma glucose test?
Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.

What is the oral glucose tolerance test?
Measures blood sugar after consuming a sugary drink.

What is the random plasma glucose test?
Measures blood sugar at any time of day.

Can diabetes tests be done at home?
Yes, with a glucometer and test strips.

What is the normal range for blood sugar levels?
70-99 mg/dL for fasting and less than 140 mg/dL after meals.

What do abnormal test results indicate?
Diabetes or prediabetes, requiring further evaluation and treatment.