As the name implies, a blood sugar test is an examination to determine the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood. There are various blood sugar tests, and texamhis no only to diagnose diabetes, but also to evaluate whether the sugar level patient's blood diabetes well controlled.
Although blood sugar tests are generally done in a clinical laboratory or hospital, you can also do this test at home using a glucometer. The trick is simply to pierce the tip of the finger with a special needle until it bleeds a little, then drip it on the glucose strip attached to the glucometer. The results will be visible in 10-20 seconds.
Various Types of Blood Sugar Test
Based on the time of blood collection and the method of measurement, blood sugar tests are divided into several types, namely:
1. Blood sugar test while
This blood sugar test can be done at any time without the need to fast and regardless of when you last ate. This test can be done to monitor blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, or to assess the high or low blood sugar levels of people who are weak or faint.
2. Fasting blood sugar test
This is a blood sugar test that requires you to fast (usually 8 hours) before taking the test, so that the results are not affected by the food you eat. This fasting blood sugar test is generally used as the first test to diagnose diabetes.
3. Blood sugar test 2 hours after eating (prandial post)
Ten minutes after eating, blood sugar levels will begin to rise and peak after 2 hours. After 2-3 hours, blood sugar will drop back to normal conditions.
Blood sugar test prandial post performed 2 hours after the patient eats, and is usually done after a fasting blood sugar test. This test can describe the body's ability to control blood sugar levels, which are related to the amount and sensitivity of insulin in the body.
4. Hemoglobin A1 . testc(HbA1c)
This blood test is done to determine the average blood sugar level in the last 2-3 months. This test measures the percentage of blood sugar attached to hemoglobin (Hb). HbA1c examination can be done to diagnose diabetes, as well as to determine whether or not the blood sugar levels of diabetics are controlled.
If your HbA1C level is more than 6.5 percent in 2 checks at different times, chances are you have diabetes or your diabetes is not controlled. Levels between 5.7-6.4 percent indicate prediabetes, and below 5.7 percent is considered normal.
How mcontrolling blood sugar levels
An increase in blood sugar levels that exceeds normal limits but is not categorized as diabetes is also known as prediabetes. If this condition is not treated immediately, it can develop into diabetes.
For people with prediabetes, the way to control blood sugar levels is to make lifestyle changes, namely by adjusting their diet and exercising regularly. Meanwhile, in diabetics, blood sugar levels must not only be controlled with lifestyle changes, but also the consumption of drugs.
Diabetics are advised to do regular blood sugar tests and see a doctor regularly so that doctors can monitor whether their blood sugar levels are under control through the treatment given.
Blood sugar tests are important for diagnosing diabetes. However, you should first consult with your doctor before carrying out this test, considering that there are various types. Don't forget to report the results to your doctor so they can be analyzed further.