Glucose tests

GLUCOSE TESTS

Why do you need a glucose test ?

Your health care provider may order a glucose test if you have symptoms of high glucose levels (hyperglycemia) or low glucose levels (hypoglycemia).

Symptoms of high blood glucose levels include:

Increased thirst
More frequent urination
Blurred vision
Fatigue
Wounds that are slow to heal

Symptoms of low blood glucose levels include:

Anxiety
Sweating
Trembling
Hunger
Confusion

You may also need a blood glucose test if you have certain risk factors for diabetes. These include:

Being overweight
Lack of exercise
Family member with diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease

If you are pregnant, you will likely get a glucose test between the 24th and 28th week of your pregnancy to check for gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that happens only during pregnancy.

So what is a glucose test ?

Blood glucose test measures the glucose levels in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar. It is your body’s main source of energy. A hormone called insulin helps move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells. Too much or too little glucose in the blood can be a sign of a serious medical condition. High glucose levels (hyperglycemia) may be a sign of diabetes, a disorder that can cause heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and other complications. Low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) can also lead to major health problems, including brain damage, if not treated.

The content is advised by: 199 Hospital