Commonly Administered Tests And Exams For Diabetes
The most fundamental test to find out whether or not one is afflicted with diabetes is to observe if they manifest the symptoms of either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The signs of Type 1 diabetes include excessive thirst, good appetite or urination, weight loss and blurred vision. The manifestations of Type 2 diabetes include excessive weight loss, tiredness, increased thirst, urination, vomiting and nausea.
You also have to visit a doctor for the two different tests which will examine your blood glucose level. A urine analysis may be undertaken to look for glucose and ketones from the breakdown of fat. However, this test alone is not sufficient in determining whether you are suffering from diabetes or not.
Your physician will also perform one of the following blood tests for diabetes check up:
1. Fasting blood glucose level ? The doctor will confirm diabetes if glucose level higher than 126 mg/dL even when the test is repeated. Levels between 100 and 126 mg/dL are called as impaired fasting glucose or pre-diabetes. They are regarded to be risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and its complications.
2. Oral glucose tolerance test ? The doctor will diagnose diabetes if your glucose level yields more than 200 mg/dL after 2 hours. (This test is used heavily for Type 2 diabetes.)
3. Random (non-fasting) blood glucose level ? The physician will diagnose diabetes if higher than 200 mg/dL and if you show diabetes symptoms which include increased thirst, urination, and fatigue. (This exam must come with a fasting blood glucose test.)
Results of these tests serve as guide in determining your blood glucose level which should be between 90 and 120 if you are diabetes free. Those whose levels are between 121 and 130 are conceived as borderline diabetic while those with levels higher than 130 are diagnosed with diabetes. Remember these informations and keep them in a safe place!