Last updated on December 22, 2021
Content By: Dr. Nikita Toshi BDS, Assistant Manager (Medical Review) & Dr. Ritu Budania MBBS, MD (Pharmacology) Head, Medical Affairs
Last updated on December 22, 2021
Diabetes is one of the most common conditions in the world. And while a diabetes diagnosis can at first seem dreary, in most cases, the condition can be effectively managed while not compromising all the joys of life. In other words, there are ways you can live happily without allowing diabetes to dictate your life. All you need is to know how to manage your blood sugar levels and take control of your health. However, in other cases, the fear of being diagnosed with diabetes prevents people from getting tested. Some of them even carry on with their lives unaware of what might be otherwise. As per diabetes statistics in India in 2019, almost 77 million people were diagnosed with diabetes.
The problem with diabetes is that you hardly can understand the symptoms at first. The warning signs can be so mild that they can be so often overlooked. So instead of living life in fear, it is extremely important that we get ourselves tested for diabetes from time to time. Early detection of the condition is always easier to handle than a later one. So without further ado, let’s delve deep into the different tests to assess diabetes.
Diabetes is one of the most common conditions in the world. And while a diabetes diagnosis can at first seem dreary, in most cases, the condition can be effectively managed while not compromising all the joys of life. In other words, there are ways you can live happily without allowing diabetes to dictate your life. All you need is to know how to manage your blood sugar levels and take control of your health. However, in other cases, the fear of being diagnosed with diabetes prevents people from getting tested. Some of them even carry on with their lives unaware of what might be otherwise. As per diabetes statistics in India in 2019, almost 77 million people were diagnosed with diabetes.
The problem with diabetes is that you hardly can understand the symptoms at first. The warning signs can be so mild that they can be so often overlooked. So instead of living life in fear, it is extremely important that we get ourselves tested for diabetes from time to time. Early detection of the condition is always easier to handle than a later one. So without further ado, let’s delve deep into the different tests to assess diabetes.
Written by:
BDS, Assistant Manager (Medical Review)
Reviewed by:
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology) Head, Medical Affairs
In this day and age, almost everyone has had a run-in with diabetes, either directly or through a close family member or friend. After a Diabetes diagnosis, lifestyle changes like having tea without sugar or avoiding sweets always sparks a discussion on lifestyle with diabetes. But a little change can help carry on with life without having to worry much. And this is just not a one-off case but rather the story of people and families all over the world.
Instead of playing the guessing game, getting tested for diabetes will help you understand whether you have diabetes or not. It is essential that you get tested for diabetes as soon as you see any symptoms because timely intervention can largely help in controlling your blood sugar levels. But it is also important to get tested once in a while so that we don’t let things get out of hand.
Before we go further, let us look at the basics of what diabetes is and how to go about getting tests for diabetes diagnosis.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that results in increased blood sugar levels in the body. The natural response to manage blood sugar is through the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas.
How does the pancreas work and what causes diabetes?
The pancreas is a part of our digestive system and produces hormones that help regulate our blood sugar. There are certain cells in the pancreas which are responsible for producing insulin. Insulin helps shift the sugar from the blood and into the cells to be used as energy. When these cells are unable to produce sufficient amounts of insulin, the blood sugar rises, leading to a diabetes diagnosis. Over time, the body also develops a resistance to insulin, which means it cannot use insulin effectively even if it is made in sufficient quantities.
There are three main types of diabetes: (i) Type 1 diabetes, (ii) Type 2 diabetes and (iii) Gestational diabetes. Getting tested for diabetes will help you find out if you have diabetes or even if you are at risk of developing it.
| TYPES OF DIABETES IN BRIEF | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type 1 Diabetes | A type of diabetes that is caused by an auto-immune disorder where the body destroys the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. This leads to high blood sugar levels. | ||||||
| Type 2 Diabetes | A kind of diabetes that is caused by insulin resistance, where the body makes insulin but does not respond properly to it. | ||||||
| Gestational Diabetes | A form of diabetes that occurs in pregnant women due to pregnancy-related hormonal changes and other risk factors. | ||||||
While type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes are the most common conditions from the classification for diabetes, they are not the only ones. Diabetes classifications also include a few more conditions (diseases of the pancreas and abnormal levels of other hormones which oppose insulin action and a few more) that may lead to high sugar levels.
Other related terms:
Pre-Diabetes is a condition when a person’s blood sugar levels indicate that their insulin resistance is rising or their insulin production is decreasing.
Lean diabetes is the term for diabetes that affects people with a healthy height to weight ratio, often caused by genetic and lifestyle factors.
Diagnosing Diabetes - Who needs to be screened?
Getting tested for diabetes is a crucial step in identifying and controlling diabetes in your body. You must take tests for diabetes diagnosis if you feel any of the following symptoms:
Extreme levels of thirst
Increase in hunger
Blurred vision and unclear eyesight
Frequent urination
Fatigue and exhaustion
Unexplained drop in weight
Cuts and sores that take very long to heal.
The symptoms of diabetes can often appear over a period of time and some people may not notice them. It is recommended that you take tests for diabetes diagnosis even if you do not have the above symptoms but:
Are obese and have a body mass index over 25
Have a history of diabetes in your family
Are over the age of 45
Suffer from high cholesterol and blood pressure
If you have had Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in the past
Lead a sedentary lifestyle with little or no exercise
If any of the above factors apply to you, then it is better if you get tested for diabetes. It will help identify whether you have an underlying diabetes condition and ascertain the measures required to control it.
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A blood sugar test is a small medical procedure that helps in finding out the quantity of sugar or glucose in your body. In plain words, you are asked to take blood sugar tests to check if you have diabetes. These types of tests for diabetes diagnosis also help determine which type of diabetes you have.
Additionally, blood sugar tests are used in monitoring blood sugar levels and preventing complications among diabetics. They help you in analysing whether your current course of medication is working and if you need to make any further changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Here are some of the various methods of testing for diabetes.
The three main types of blood sugar tests are fasting blood sugar test, random blood sugar test and post-prandial blood sugar test.
Fasting blood sugar test - What is it and how is it done?
A fasting blood sugar test is a method that measures your blood sugar level when you are fasting. Fasting overnight, essentially not eating anything for 8 to 12 hours, is the best preparation for a fasting blood sugar test. The ideal fasting blood sugar test time is in the morning, right after you wake up.
How to read your Fasting Blood Sugar Test report?
The readings from your fasting blood sugar test will indicate whether you have diabetes or not. You can breathe a sigh of relief if the result says your blood sugar level is less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Readings in the diabetes blood sugar range of 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L) indicate prediabetes. If your reading is at 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) or above in two independent tests for diabetes diagnosis, then the reading meets the diabetes diagnosis criteria.
Post-Prandial Blood Sugar Test - What is it and how is it done?
In this test, your blood sugar is checked 2 hours after the patient has taken one full meal. This test helps to give an idea of the peak rise in blood sugar level that may happen after consuming food. It also depends on the type and quantity of meal the patient has consumed on the day of the test. Hence, it may also give an inappropriate result as most patients tend to consume an unusually low carb diet on the day of the test. Results of both the fasting blood sugar test and Post Prandial Blood Sugar tests are considered for interpretation as follows:
| Stage of Diabetes | Fasting | Post-Prandial |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | 126 mg/dL or above | 200 mg/dL or above |
| Pre-diabetes | 100-125 mg/dL | 140-199 mg/dL |
| The normal blood glucose level | Below 100 mg/dL | Below 140 mg/dL |
Random blood sugar test - how is it done?
A random blood sugar test is a form of blood sugar test that can be taken at any time of the day. The random blood sugar test procedure is fairly simple – your blood can be drawn anytime and you do not require any fasting. A random blood sugar test can be taken irrespective of when you ate your last meal.
How to read your random blood sugar test report?
If your random blood sugar test reading says you have a blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher, then there is a high chance that you will be diagnosed with diabetes.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test - how is it done?
An oral glucose tolerance test is a type of test that takes place in a two-hour window. The medical practitioner will test your blood sugar initially after overnight fasting and then you will be given a sugary beverage (that contains a specific amount of glucose). Your blood sugar levels will once again be tested two hours after you have consumed the sugary beverage. This is a common method used to test for type 2 diabetes.
How to read your oral glucose tolerance test report?
For oral glucose tolerance tests, the normal blood sugar level is 140 mg/dL or less. If your glucose level ranges from 140 mg/dL to 199 mg/dL, then you may have prediabetes. If your glucose level is recorded above 200 mg/dL, then you are likely to have diabetes.
Why is it important to monitor your blood sugar levels?
Monitoring your blood sugar levels is an essential step in controlling diabetes. Make it a habit to collect your blood sugar reports after each test or make a diabetes care journal and write down your readings after every test. This will help you in understanding whether your current treatment is working and if you need to make any tweaks.
Monitoring blood sugar and regular diabetes tests can also help to avoid long-term complications such as heart diseases, kidney ailments and stroke.
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HBA1C is a term that is commonly associated with diabetes. The HBA1C test is used to study the glycated haemoglobin levels in your body. Glycated haemoglobin is the haemoglobin that gets attached to the sugar or glucose in your blood. Let us delve a little deeper and see how the HBA1C test is done and what HBA1C test level is normal.
HBA1C and its role in the body
The HBA1C test, which stands for haemoglobin A1C or glycated haemoglobin test, is a blood test for diabetes that measures your blood sugar levels over the last three months.
In order to properly understand the significance of this test, we need to know what haemoglobin is. Haemoglobin is an essential protein that gives blood its red colour and transports oxygen all through your body.
The sugar in your body clings to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells. You can understand that there will be a huge amount of sugar attached to your haemoglobin if your blood sugar levels have been high. In short, the higher the sugar levels in your blood, the more the sugar attached to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells.
The HBA1C test is widely used to test for type 2 diabetes.
The HBA1C test: What is it and how is it done?
The HBA1C test is not a fasting test and can be done anytime. The HBA1C test preparation is fairly simple – a blood sample will be taken from your arm and will be used to measure your blood sugar levels. Since the red blood cells live for close to three months, the HBA1C test will determine your average blood sugar level over the last 12 weeks. The results are measured in a percentage form.
How to read my HbA1c test report?
The most common question that comes up when we speak about HBA1C testing is what HBA1C test level is normal. Any result below 5.7% is considered in the normal range of the HBA1C test and means you’re safe from diabetes. Reading between the range of 5.7% and 6.4%, which is above the HBA1C test normal range, indicates prediabetes. Now that you know what HBA1C test level is normal, it’s easy to deduce that any test result that is equal to or more than 6.5% points to diabetes.
Why should I look to keep my HbA1c levels low?
The higher the level of HBA1C in your body, the greater is the risk of diabetes. In case you’re wondering how to ensure diabetes care, all you need to do is consult your doctor and come up with a proper diabetes care plan that helps you bring your HBA1C test back to normal range. Your diabetes care plan should include a healthy balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate medication to reduce your HBA1C levels.
How often should I take an HbA1c test?
People with diabetes should take the HBA1C test regularly in three-month intervals and jot down the readings in a diabetes care journal so that they can efficiently monitor their blood sugar levels.
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The C-peptide test is one of the diagnostic tests your medical practitioner may conduct while testing for diabetes. This test identifies how much insulin is produced in your body. Insulin is a hormone that helps in the transport of blood sugar to the cells of the body, which is in turn used to provide the body with energy.
The pancreas which is located behind your stomach produces the insulin hormone and c-peptide is a by-product of the process. The pancreas releases equal amounts of insulin and c-peptide.
C-peptide does not directly have an impact on your body’s blood sugar level but it is an effective tool to measure how much insulin your body is producing.
The C-peptide test is used for the following purposes:
Testing for type 1 diabetes.
Identifying the causes of low blood sugar levels.
To check whether you have insulin resistance.
To analyse whether you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
To measure insulin production after a surgery involving the pancreas.
How will the C-peptide test be taken?
The C-peptide test is a test for diabetes diagnosis usually taken through a blood sample. In some cases, you may be required to take the C-peptide test when you are fasting. Your blood glucose will also be tested along with C-peptide for a correlation. On some occasions, your doctor may also advise a change in dosage of your sugar-lowering medicines before taking this test.
The C-peptide level in your body can also be measured using a urine test. Your doctor may ask you to collect urine in 24 hours and this is called a 24-hour sample.
How to read my C-peptide test report?
The blood report or urine routine test report will help in understanding whether you have diabetes or not. The normal range for a c-peptide test is between 0.51 to 2.72 nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). If your test result is lower or higher than this, then you may have health complications.
A lower test value of C-peptide and high blood sugar means you may have type 1 diabetes, which is a condition where your body makes little to no insulin.
A lower C-peptide test and low blood sugar value could also suggest that you may have liver disease.
On the other hand, a higher test value of C-peptide and high blood sugar means you may be suffering from insulin resistance, which is a condition that affects people who have type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance is a disorder where your body produces insulin but it is unable to use it in an ideal manner leading to high blood sugar.
High levels of C-peptide and low blood glucose may also be an indicator of a small tumour in your pancreas, kidney disease or Cushing syndrome.
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A urine routine test is often used in diabetes tests. Under this method, your urine sample is tested as per various parameters and it indirectly suggests whether you have diabetes or not. If you are a diabetic patient urine test may be helpful in the routine evaluation of your kidney function and sugar control.
How does your urine change according to blood glucose levels?
Urine tests are a tool that is used in the testing for type 1 diabetes. Let us now see why urine tests for diabetes are used. Your body breaks down fat to produce energy when your blood sugar levels are low or if you cannot make insulin, as is the case in type 1 diabetes. The body releases ketones during this process, which is a byproduct of the breakdown of fat.
If your blood sugar levels remain low for long durations of time and the body continues to break down fat, then larger amounts of ketone are released. Ketone buildup in the blood over a long period of time can be harmful to your body and could lead to a disorder called diabetic ketoacidosis.
Some of the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include nausea, shortness of breath, dry mouth, fatigue, unconsciousness, fruity odour from breath and excessive thirst.
A sudden build-up of ketones could also be a direct result of your blood sugar levels, with it going above 240 mg/dL.
Your doctor may ask you to take a urine test for diabetes to check the number of ketones and sugar in your urine. If you’re thinking about what is a urine routine test? It is basically the routine testing of your urine to check the sugar and ketone levels in your body.
Types of Urine Tests
A routine urine test is used to detect high blood sugar levels. The tests detect and/or measure several substances in the urine, such as byproducts of normal and abnormal metabolism like glucose, ketones, proteins, cells, cellular fragments and bacteria.
A urine glucose test will tell you whether you have any glucose in your urine. Healthy individuals usually do not have glucose in their urine. A urine test for diabetes does not specify how much sugar is in your blood, it only tells you whether or not you have glucose in your urine. If you do, then you should consult your doctor to identify the cause of the same.
Urine ketone tests are very important in testing for diabetes. Those with type 1 diabetes should particularly pay extra attention to the ketone levels in their urine. For a healthy person, Ketones are absent in urine, if your urine tests positive for ketones you may be at risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition should not be ignored and you should consult a doctor immediately.
What is Urine Microscopy testing?
A urine routine microscopy test is a part of the many tests done as part of analysing your urine sample. Urine routine microscopy is the method where your urine sample is first put into a centrifuge, where the liquid in the urine will be separated from any existent solid particles in the sample. These solid components, which could be bacteria, blood cells or crystals, are then examined under a microscope.
If any of the following particles are found in your urine routine microscopy test, then you may need additional diabetes tests.
The urine routine microscopy method cannot by itself tell whether you have diabetes. It only throws up various warning signs and you will need to get additional tests done for diabetes diagnosis.
The steps after the urine routine microscopy test would depend on why your doctor asked you to take the test. You may need to take follow-up tests for diabetes diagnosis only if your urine routine microscopy test shows abnormal results and you have a pre-existing condition of kidney disease or have a urinary tract infection. However, if you are hale and hearty, then you won’t need additional tests even if there are slight differences in your urine routine microscopy test.
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Having seen what is a urine routine test and how to read a urine routine test report, let us look at another key method in diabetes testing called the Glomerular Filtration Rate or GFR test.
GFR stands for Glomerular Filtration Rate. The GFR test is used to measure how well your kidneys are filtering your blood and getting rid of the waste particles. Your body has two kidneys and their main role is to filter the wastes and extra water in your blood to produce urine.
This test gets its name from the tiny filters that are inside your kidney which help in the filtration process. If your kidney malfunctions, your kidney filters will not work properly.
Your doctor will ask you to take a GFR test if he feels that your kidneys are not working efficiently. Some of the symptoms that suggest you may have an issue in your kidneys are:
The GFR test can be taken at any time and is a simple blood test. Your sample will be sent to a lab to test your creatinine levels and determine how well your kidneys are functioning. The lower your GFR, the greater the extent of damage to your kidneys. If your GFR is 90 or above then you can breathe easy as it means you have no kidney issues. GFR below 90 is a matter of concern and should be discussed with a doctor. However, if your GFR is between 15 – 29, then you may have acute kidney issues and a severe loss of kidney function. If your GFR is 15 or below, then you are suffering from kidney failure and need to get appropriate treatment at the earliest.
Why is a GFR test important in diabetes?
Diabetes is one of the key causes of kidney failure. Over time, the high levels of sugar in the blood affect the kidneys and have a negative impact on the kidney’s filters. People with diabetes also often develop high blood pressure, which also takes a toll on the kidneys.
You can avoid diabetic kidney diseases, by ensuring you have a sound diabetes care plan and adapt lifestyle modifications to manage diabetes. It is imperative to protect your kidneys by keeping your blood sugar and blood pressure levels in the normal range because you could suffer severe kidney ailments and even kidney failure if you do not.
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While getting tested for diabetes can be a daunting process, be rest assured that detecting the condition early is always better for more management of the condition. Uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes may just lead to severe complications that can be avoided by early detection.
How to prepare for a diabetes test?
Before taking any test, it is important to tell your doctor about any medications you may be taking which includes normal over the counter medication and even certain herbal supplements.
Depending on the tests you are taking, you may have to fast overnight, which means you can’t eat or drink anything other than water for up to 8 hours before your test. For example, the diabetes test FBS is a fasting test, so you would want to schedule the test first thing in the morning so that the 8 hour fasting period is consumed in sleep.
If it is a non-fasting test, for example, the diabetes test HBA1C you can go about your day normally without any restrictions.
How to prepare a loved one or an elderly patient for a diabetes test?
A diabetes test can be a daunting experience for some people. Ensure they eat their meals on time and follow the instructions for the test they are taking. Explain to them how diabetes is diagnosed and that the test is nothing to be afraid of. Reassure them that diabetes can be managed effectively with medication and lifestyle changes. There are many examples of people who have lived rich and happy lives despite developing diabetes early on.
Preparing a child for a diabetes diagnosis test
Preparing your child for tests for diabetes diagnosis will vary depending on the type of test. For example, you need to see that they fast overnight or for 8 – 12 hours for a fasting blood sugar test. However, if it is a random blood sugar test, your child need not fast.
Speak to your health practitioner a day before your test to fully understand the prerequisites to help your child better. Before you take your child for the test, you must also inform your doctor of any other medications or supplements they may be taking regularly.
If you have any doubts about the process of diabetes tests, then you can note down a few questions and have them answered by your doctor after the test to get a comprehensive understanding of the process.
How often should one get tested for diabetes?
For people with type 1 diabetes diagnosis, it is recommended to check their blood sugar levels frequently. You may need to check it once every 4 hours or as advised by your doctor. Home diabetes test kits are easy to use and indispensable for those who are affected by type 1 diabetes.
With regards to type 2 diabetes diagnosis, in people with controlled blood sugar levels, an HbA1C test is recommended once every 3 months or on the advice of a doctor. Other tests like fasting blood sugar or post-prandial blood sugar can be done weekly or monthly as per the doctor’s advice. For pre-diabetics, a test is recommended at least once a year.
If you have already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and take insulin, then it is recommended that you check your blood sugar levels before meals and at any point where you are feeling sick or uncomfortable.
If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes but are not taking insulin to manage the condition, then you do not need to test as often. Watch out for the symptoms of high blood sugar and test once every 3 months or as prescribed by your doctor.
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The news of a diabetes diagnosis can hit hard for some but many have managed to live long and healthy lives despite a diabetes diagnosis. Here are 4 things you can do after you have been diagnosed with diabetes:
Consult a doctor to confirm/rule out your diagnosis before jumping to a conclusion.
Once you have completed the process of testing, show the reports to your doctor to get a clear understanding. Many times we tend to take matters into our own hands, Google our reports and jump into assumptions and conclusions of our own. However, it is important to stay patient and wait until you visit your doctor. Your doctor will study the reports and take an informed call on the future course of action based on the nature of the test results.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then don’t panic. You can control your diabetes with a few easy measures such as chalking out a diabetes care plan, doing some basic lifestyle modifications to control diabetes and monitoring blood sugar levels.
Your doctor will ensure you follow the best practices, such as maintaining a diabetes diet plan that includes loads of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. He will help you form an exercise plan which will increase your physical activity and keep you fit and also suggest the best course of medicines.
Living with diabetes is challenging but you can control its impact by adopting these lifestyle changes.
Pay attention to your mental state, share your thoughts and feelings with your doctor, a therapist or a loved one.
You may find it hard to come to terms with the fact that you have been diagnosed with diabetes but that is completely alright. You can take your time to process things and open up about your feelings to someone if you feel like sharing. You could raise your concerns with your doctor or find comfort in the company of a loved one. Another way to cope with your feelings could be by writing them down in a diabetes care journal. You could write down your daily thoughts and see if they become more positive over time.
It’s easier said than done but do not let it bog you down. Pay close attention to your mental health and try to boost your mood by meditating, taking a walk or listening to some uplifting music. You could also seek professional guidance from a therapist.
Please be kind to yourself and ensure self-care, which goes a long way in helping you cope with diabetes.
You are not alone: Join a support group and gather as much treatment and resources to help you manage your condition.
Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the world and there are 77 million people with diabetes in India. The International Diabetes Federation’s Diabetes Atlas released in 2019 projects that India could have 134.2 million cases by 2045. The numbers sure are alarming but they also go on to suggest that you are not alone in the battle against diabetes.
Try not to isolate yourself from people and look to join a support group to find people with conditions similar to yours. Interacting with people who share the same experience and condition as you could make it seem a little less difficult. You can also educate yourself on the different methods of testing for diabetes, the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels and how to ensure diabetes care for yourself. This way you will have a thorough understanding of your condition and be well-equipped to help yourself along the way.
Consistency is key: Start by taking small steps towards diet and lifestyle alterations for a healthier you.
This may sound like something you may hear in a Rocky Balboa movie but consistency is truly the key. Start small by switching a can of cola with a non-sugary drink and replacing junk food with healthier options. Diabetes may need you to make lifestyle modifications such as eating healthy and getting enough exercise. You can start with something basic like a 10-minute walk after each meal or a 30-minute walk once a day for five days and then build on that.
It may seem a little challenging initially but you will soon see how these small lifestyle modifications help you control diabetes. When you start seeing the results, you begin to trust the process and it gets easier from there. Make sure to pace yourself and start slow in a manner that suits you. It is pertinent for you to note that this is not a sprint, it is a marathon.
Schedule regular check-ups with your health practitioner to monitor your blood sugar levels
An important way to make diabetes manageable is to monitor it. Since sugar levels are key to diabetic health, monitoring them to ensure they are at normal levels is vital.
If you have been newly diagnosed with diabetes, take a blood sugar test (HbA1c) ) every 3 months and FBS, PBS and ketone tests as advised by your doctor.
Apart from the blood sugar test, your doctor will advise you on health checkups including – lipid profile, liver function test, kidney function tests, vitamin levels, tests to check your heart health and thyroid function annually or as per your health needs. You need to keep a check on your feet. If you notice swelling, cuts and bruises or numbness, consult with your general practitioner. Similarly, take regular dental checkups and eye exams in case of strained vision or blurriness. Additionally, you can even keep a check on your cholesterol levels, kidney and blood pressure to stay on top of your health.
When monitoring someone’s sugar levels, it is important to be calm and avoid judgement so that they feel comfortable with checking their levels anytime. If you come across higher readings than normal, retrace their steps to see what may have caused the increase. Since a good routine and lifestyle is crucial to effectively managing diabetes, it may take some extra effort to help them wean off habits that have been developed over a lifetime.
After a diabetes diagnosis, patience and consistent targeted efforts are some of the best allies to someone who is trying to control their blood sugar. Make sure to also look out for readings of low blood sugar in diabetes. While controlling the blood sugar, especially with medication, it is possible to reduce blood sugar to less than normal levels.
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People who have been given a diabetes diagnosis can go through a number of emotions ranging from nervousness, fear, anger, hope and determination. The diagnosis marks the need for significant changes in lifestyle and routine, which can be very daunting. During this time, it helps to have people around who can help transition into this new way of life.
What are the immediate lifestyle changes to make to start early?
.
How can you help a loved one cope with diabetes?
Lifestyle changes are easier to make when someone makes them with you. Exercise for diabetes control together and eat healthier as a family to boost the approach towards adopting their new diabetes lifestyle. Encouragement and conversation also go a long way towards making the journey more pleasant and enjoyable.
Life with diabetes - how it’s possible to live your best with minor lifestyle alterations
There are a number of ways to maintain your lifestyle even after diabetes. One great way to go about it is to find alternative, diabetic-friendly recipes for the foods you love. Replacing high glycemic ingredients with low glycemic ones will allow you to enjoy the foods you love and you can continue to improve them if you tweak the recipes. For example, replacing white rice with brown rice is a simple but very effective step towards managing diabetes.
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How do doctors test for diabetes?
There are various methods that can be used in the testing for diabetes. The most common tests for diabetes diagnosis are fasting blood sugar tests, HbA1c, random blood sugar tests and post-prandial blood sugar tests. Additionally, some of the other tests for diabetes diagnosis include urine routine microscopy.
Can you test for diabetes at home?
Yes, you can test for diabetes at home but you cannot diagnose diabetes by testing at home. Regular testing of your blood sugar levels is an integral part of your diabetes care plan and helps in keeping your diabetes levels in control. Testing your blood sugar levels at home will help you in monitoring blood sugar levels and you can speak to your doctor if you notice any major changes.
How can I tell if I’m diabetic?
The only way you can find out if you are diabetic is by taking a diabetes tests. If you notice any symptoms of diabetes, such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, sudden drop in weight or blurry vision, then it is best that you consult a doctor who will suggest one of the tests for diabetes diagnosis.
What is fasting blood glucose normal range?
A fasting blood glucose level of 99 mg/dL and lesser is considered the normal range.
What tests should a diabetic do regularly/annually?
If recently diagnosed with diabetes, take a Blood sugar test (HBA1C) every 3 months. Once stabilised, you can take the same test every 6 months.
Annual health check-ups or as advised by your doctor may include tests like:
Tests for Heart health (cardiac markers, ECG, 2-D Echo, TMT Test)
You also need to check on your:
Feet – is it swollen, bruised or numb?
Eyes – Get your eyes checked by your eye doctor once in a year even if you have no problems with vision. Take a dilated eye exam at the earliest in case of blurred vision or any other disturbance in vision.
A dental check-up every six months
How can I test myself for diabetes?
Visit your doctor with readings of your blood sugar to find out if the readings indicate diabetes. Most diagnostic centres will provide a blood sugar test, it is easy to schedule a test via phone or online and it does not require a prescription. There are also options for home visit testing and self-testing through self-checking devices.
What are the names of the tests for diabetes diagnosis?
Diabetes test HBA1C, Glucose Tolerance Test, Fasting Blood Sugar Test, Post Prandial Blood Glucose Test and random blood sugar test.
What is the criteria to get tested for diabetes?
If you have any of the symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst, frequent urination, etc then it is advisable to consult a doctor. If either one of your parents has diabetes, then it is advisable to get yourself checked once in 3 years if your blood sugar is normal and once a year if your blood sugar levels indicate pre-diabetes.
Can a healthy-looking person get diabetes?
Diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin production or insulin resistance in the body. Therefore, anyone can get diabetes, regardless of how they look on the outside but good lifestyle choices and healthy practices are essential in preventing and managing diabetes.
How do lean people get diabetes?
Lean people get diabetes when the insulin-producing cells in the body are compromised and no longer produce enough insulin for blood sugar levels control. Alternatively, if the body develops insulin resistance, then even lean people can develop diabetes. However, in these cases, it can take several months or even years after a diabetes diagnosis before the person becomes dependent on insulin.
Can I overcome diabetes?
While diabetes is not curable, you can maintain your blood sugar levels in the normal range with the help of medicines, diet and lifestyle modification. It is important to consult a doctor and follow the treatment plan sincerely.
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