Diabetes is a disease that results from high levels of blood sugar, also known as glucose. In a healthy individual, glucose levels are regulated by the pancreatic hormone, insulin. In people with diabetes, either a person develops insulin resistance or does not produce enough insulin, which leads to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to serious complications. Risk factors include age, family history, physical inactivity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and high triglycerides. It is important to test for diabetes if symptoms arise.
Test for Diabetes
Step 1
Meet with a physician to discuss your rationale for needing a diabetes test. He will refer you to a lab to be tested.
Step 2
Have blood drawn for a hemoglobin A1C test. This is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. According to the Mayo Clinic, an A1C level of 6.5% or higher for two separate tests indicates diabetes.
Step 3
Have a fasting plasma glucose test (FPG), as ordered by your physician, if a hemoglobin A1C test is unavailable. The FPG test requires fasting for at least 8 hours before testing. A fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher for two separate tests indicates diabetes.
Step 4
Schedule an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to confirm the diagnosis from the FPG, if ordered by your physician. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, the OGTT measures blood glucose after an 8 hour fast and 2 hours after a person drinks a glucose drink. A blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher for two separate tests indicates diabetes.
Tips and Warnings
- Do your research prior to having a hemoglobin A1C or glucose tolerance test. It is important to know what to expect prior to having blood drawn. If diagnosed with diabetes, schedule an appointment with an endocrinologist, a specialist in diabetes. Early treatment is invaluable in preventing or delaying complications from diabetes.
- It is important to contact a health care provider prior to testing for diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that, if left untreated, may result in life-threatening complications.
Things You'll Need
- Appointment with primary care physician
