Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test |#MTP|

Blood sugar fasting test measures blood sugar after an overnight fast (not eating). Blood glucose (sugar) is derived from food and it is the main source of energy.   If a person has high blood glucose level then this condition is known as diabetes while if it is low it is known as hypoglycemia.

Diabetic patients should monitor their glucose or HbA1c levels regularly to evaluate control of blood glucose in body.

Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by a high blood sugar level (hyperglycemia) over a prolonged period of time.

Symptoms often include frequent urination, increased thirst and increased appetite. If left untreated, diabetes can cause many health complications.

Food is the primary energy source for humans and can also lead to abnormal blood glucose levels. High glucose levels are referred to as diabetes, while lower levels are known as hypoglycemia. Diabetic patients must monitor their HbA1c or glucose levels regularly to ensure they are properly controlled. Diabetes mellitus, or simply diabetes, is a cluster of metabolic conditions where blood sugar remains elevated (hyperglycemia) for extended periods. Its common symptoms include excessive urination, excessive thirst and increased hunger. If left untreated, this condition can cause several health issues.

Who should do the glucose plasma test?

The glucose plasma test is typically recommended for anyone with a family history of diabetes and those who are overweight or have high blood pressure. It is also recommended for pregnant women at risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. The test is generally performed every three years for those without any risk factors, although more frequent testing may be necessary depending on your doctor's recommendation.

Doctors recommend getting glucose plasma tests for those with lifestyle issues such as:

-People who smoke,

-Lead an inactive lifestyle,

-Eat a diet high in processed foods and sugars

Furthermore, people over 45 years of age and those with a personal or family history of heart disease should also consider getting tested for glucose levels.

Reasons for Undergoing the Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test 

The fasting blood sugar (FBS) test is a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing an individual's blood glucose levels after a period of fasting. There are several key reasons why one might undergo this test: 

• Screening for diabetes, especially in high-risk individuals such as those over 35, overweight, or with a family history of the condition 
• Diagnosing prediabetes and diabetes by measuring blood glucose levels after an overnight fast 
• Monitoring blood glucose levels in individuals already diagnosed with diabetes to help adjust treatment plans 
• Identifying symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision, which may indicate diabetes or prediabetes 

List of Parameters Considered During the Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test 

The primary parameter measured during the FBS blood test is the concentration of glucose in the blood after a period of fasting. This measurement provides valuable insights: 

• Glucose Levels: The fasting glucose test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood after you have not eaten for at least 8 hours, indicating how well your body regulates blood sugar levels 
• Normal Levels: A fasting blood glucose level of 99 mg/dL or below is considered normal for individuals without diabetes 
• Prediabetes: Levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicate prediabetes, signifying a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes 
• Diabetes: Levels of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests typically indicate diabetes