Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test in Kolkata - Price & Details

The fasting blood sugar (FBS) test detects the sugar or glucose levels in the blood after an overnight fast and is routinely used in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels become higher than normal in the body. This may happen when the body does not produce enough insulin, cannot use insulin properly, or both. The sugar levels can rise due to overeating, consuming excess carbohydrates, physical inactivity, stress, illness, hormonal changes, or certain medications. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. According to a national study by the Indian Council of Medical Research, 11.4% of Indians (approximately 101 million people) are living with diabetes, highlighting its significant impact across the country. The FBS test is advised in routine preventive screenings, for those with symptoms of high blood sugar, and in monitoring certain medical conditions, medication effects, and pregnancy. For this test, fasting of 8 to 12 hours is required, typically done overnight with only water being allowed. The test involves a quick and simple blood draw from a vein in your arm.

• If you show signs of high blood sugar, such as increased urination, persistent thirst, unusual tiredness, or blurred vision.
• If you are over 45 years of age.
• If you have a close family member with diabetes.
• If you are overweight or obese, especially in the abdomen.
• If you lead an inactive lifestyle.
• If you have high blood pressure or cholesterol.
• If you had gestational diabetes before or gave birth to a baby weighing over 4 kg.
• If you are prediabetic.
• If you are undergoing a general health screening.
• If you are currently managing diabetes, to assess how well treatment is working.
• If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS, now known as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome).
• Individuals with conditions or on medications such as thyroid disorders, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or long-term corticosteroid, diuretic, or beta-blocker use, who can affect blood sugar levels.

• Diabetes mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2): FBS is one of the standard tests used to diagnose diabetes. Though further evaluations may be advised for confirmation.
• Prediabetes: identifies impaired fasting glucose, indicating early insulin resistance.
• Hypoglycaemia: detects abnormally low blood sugar levels.
• Gestational diabetes screening: FBS may be used as an initial screening test in pregnancy, though the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is used to confirm diagnosis.
• Metabolic syndrome: FBS is assessed alongside other parameters like waist circumference, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels as part of the diagnostic criteria.
• Monitoring diabetes medications: FBS helps track how well medications like insulin or oral hypoglycaemics are controlling blood sugar, allowing dosage adjustments as needed.
• Underlying conditions: An abnormally high or low FBS result may also prompt further evaluation for underlying conditions affecting glucose regulation, such as pancreatic, liver, or hormonal disorders, though these are not diagnosed by FBS alone.

What to Expect Before the Fasting Blood Sugar Test

• You must fast for 8 to 12 hours, preferably overnight, as it is more convenient and widely recommended. You may have water; however, refrain from any beverages such as juices, tea, or coffee. Ensure that you schedule a morning slot for sample collection.
• Certain medications can affect blood sugar levels temporarily. Inform your doctor regarding all the medications and supplements that you take regularly. Follow their instructions regarding continuing or adjusting the same before the test.
• Refrain from vigorous workouts and alcohol the day before.
• Ensure that you get sufficient sleep the night before the test, as poor sleep or stress can affect blood sugar levels.

What to Expect During the Blood Collection

• The FBS test is a quick procedure that typically takes only a few minutes. During sample collection, a trained phlebotomist cleans the skin and draws a small blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm, using a sterile needle.
• A slight pain or a sting may be felt when the needle is inserted.

What to Expect After the Fasting Blood Sugar Test

• Mild throbbing at the site may be felt after the blood is drawn. If you feel dizzy, you may lie down for a while.
• You may start having food and your regular medications soon after the test is completed, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
• Once the blood sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis, where your blood is tested for sugar levels.

Note: If you notice anything unusual at the puncture site, such as persistent bleeding, rashes, or pain, consult your healthcare provider.

In an FBS test, the primary parameter measured is

• Fasting Blood Glucose Level

Important note: Normal ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Refer to the ranges printed on your specific report. Always consult your doctor for interpretation of the results.

Potential Risks and Complications

Usually, only mild discomfort is experienced during blood sample collection. You should contact your doctor if:

• There is continuous bleeding from the blood draw site despite applying gentle pressure.
• Significant redness, swelling, warmth, or persistent pain develops around the blood draw site.
• You feel faint for a long time after the blood sample collection.

Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Test Limitations

• Cannot test spontaneously or in emergency situations as it involves a 8 to 12 hour fasting requirement. It may also be inconvenient for some people, such as young children, older individuals, or those with health conditions.
• Detects glucose levels at only the moment of testing, missing variations that occur across the day. Doesn’t test glucose control over several weeks, either, unlike the HbA1c test.
• The test results may be influenced by medications, stress, illness, or recent exercise, which can skew results.
• In gestational diabetes, FBS can only be used as part of the comprehensive panel. OGTT is the recommended test for diagnosis.

The fasting blood glucose test is priced at around ₹119 in Kolkata, though the exact cost can vary based on offers. To better understand the pricing differences, you can compare the FBS test costs across major cities in India.

You can book the Fasting Blood Sugar Test in Kolkata through PharmEasy with convenient home sample collection across several localities, including :

• Salt Lake
• New Town
• Rajarhat
• Dum Dum
• Lake Town
• Baguiati
• Park Street
• Ballygunge
• Bhowanipore
• Alipore
• Behala
• Tollygunge
• Jadavpur
• Garia
• Kalighat
• Kasba
• Kankurgachi
• Ruby
• Sealdah
• Shyambazar

You can also check service availability during purchase by entering your pin code.