What are the causes of a 208 blood sugar level. What symptoms indicate elevated blood glucose. How can you effectively manage and control high blood sugar levels. What lifestyle changes and treatments help reduce blood sugar to a healthy range.

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and the Significance of 208 mg/dL

Blood sugar, or glucose, is a crucial energy source for the body’s cells. A blood sugar level of 208 mg/dL is considered significantly elevated and falls within the range of diabetes. But what exactly does this number mean, and why is it concerning?

A normal fasting blood glucose level typically ranges from 70 to 100 mg/dL. When blood sugar reaches 208 mg/dL, it indicates that there’s an excess of glucose circulating in the bloodstream. This can occur due to various factors, including insufficient insulin production, insulin resistance, or both.

Is a blood sugar level of 208 mg/dL always indicative of diabetes? While it strongly suggests diabetes, especially if measured in a fasting state or consistently over time, a single reading is not enough for a definitive diagnosis. Healthcare providers usually require multiple tests and consider other factors before making a diagnosis.

Common Causes of Elevated Blood Sugar Levels

Several factors can contribute to a blood sugar level of 208 mg/dL or higher:

• Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin
• Type 2 diabetes: A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and/or decreased insulin production
• Gestational diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy
• Certain medications: Some drugs, particularly corticosteroids, can raise blood sugar levels
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hormonal changes that elevate blood glucose
• Illness or infection: The body’s stress response to illness can increase blood sugar levels
• Pancreatic diseases: Conditions affecting the pancreas can impact insulin production and glucose regulation

Are there any other less common causes of high blood sugar? Indeed, rare conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and certain tumors can also lead to elevated blood glucose levels.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

When blood sugar levels reach 208 mg/dL or higher, individuals may experience various symptoms. These can include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Unexplained weight loss
• Recurrent infections
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Do these symptoms always appear when blood sugar is high? Not necessarily. Some individuals, particularly those with gradually increasing blood sugar levels, may not experience noticeable symptoms initially. This underscores the importance of regular blood sugar monitoring, especially for those at risk of diabetes.

Complications of Sustained High Blood Sugar Levels

Prolonged periods of elevated blood sugar can lead to various health complications:

1. Cardiovascular disease: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
2. Nephropathy: Kidney damage or failure
3. Neuropathy: Nerve damage, particularly in the extremities
4. Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, potentially leading to vision loss
5. Slow wound healing: Increased risk of infections and ulcers
6. Cognitive impairment: Potential impact on brain function and increased risk of dementia

Can these complications be reversed once they develop? While some complications can be managed or slowed down with proper treatment, many are irreversible, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of high blood sugar levels.

Diagnostic Tests for Confirming Diabetes

If a blood sugar reading of 208 mg/dL is observed, healthcare providers typically recommend further testing to confirm a diabetes diagnosis. Common diagnostic tests include:

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood sugar after an 8-hour fast
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Evaluates how the body processes glucose over a 2-hour period
• Glycated Hemoglobin (A1C) Test: Provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months
• Random Plasma Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar at any time, regardless of when you last ate

How often should these tests be performed for diabetes screening? The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults begin screening at age 45, or earlier if risk factors are present. Screening frequency depends on individual risk factors and previous test results.

Effective Strategies for Managing High Blood Sugar Levels

Managing blood sugar levels effectively is crucial for preventing complications and maintaining overall health. Here are some strategies to help control high blood sugar:

1. Balanced Diet: Focus on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats
2. Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
3. Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider
4. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly check blood glucose levels to track progress and inform treatment decisions
5. Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises
6. Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night
7. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush excess glucose from the body

Can lifestyle changes alone bring blood sugar levels back to normal? For some individuals, especially those with prediabetes or early-stage type 2 diabetes, lifestyle modifications can significantly improve blood sugar control. However, others may require medication in addition to lifestyle changes.

The Role of Nutrition in Blood Sugar Management

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in managing blood sugar levels. Consider the following dietary guidelines:

• Choose low glycemic index foods to minimize blood sugar spikes
• Incorporate fiber-rich foods to slow glucose absorption
• Practice portion control to manage overall calorie intake
• Limit refined carbohydrates and added sugars
• Include lean proteins and healthy fats in meals to promote satiety and stabilize blood sugar

How does the glycemic index affect blood sugar levels? Foods with a lower glycemic index are digested and absorbed more slowly, resulting in a gradual rise in blood sugar levels rather than sharp spikes.

Medications and Treatments for Controlling High Blood Sugar

When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to manage blood sugar levels, healthcare providers may recommend medications. Common treatments include:

• Metformin: Reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity
• Sulfonylureas: Stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin
• DPP-4 inhibitors: Help the body continue to make insulin and reduce glucose production
• GLP-1 receptor agonists: Slow digestion and help lower blood sugar levels
• SGLT2 inhibitors: Help the kidneys remove excess glucose through urine
• Insulin therapy: Replaces or supplements the body’s natural insulin production

Are there any new or emerging treatments for diabetes? Research in diabetes management is ongoing, with promising developments in areas such as artificial pancreas technology, stem cell therapy, and novel drug formulations.

The Importance of Regular Monitoring and Follow-up

Consistent monitoring and regular check-ups are essential for effective blood sugar management. This includes:

1. Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels
2. Regular A1C tests to assess long-term blood sugar control
3. Periodic examinations of eyes, feet, and kidneys to detect early signs of complications
4. Lipid profile and blood pressure checks to assess cardiovascular risk
5. Adjusting treatment plans as needed based on monitoring results

How often should individuals with diabetes have follow-up appointments? The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary based on individual needs and blood sugar control, but typically range from every three to six months.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Blood Sugar Control

In addition to diet and exercise, several lifestyle modifications can contribute to better blood sugar control:

• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications
• Alcohol Moderation: Limiting alcohol intake can help prevent blood sugar fluctuations
• Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can affect blood sugar levels, so finding effective stress management techniques is crucial
• Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep patterns can disrupt glucose metabolism, emphasizing the importance of good sleep hygiene
• Regular Health Check-ups: Staying on top of overall health can help detect and address potential issues early

How does stress affect blood sugar levels? Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and lifestyle adjustments can help maintain more stable blood glucose levels.

The Role of Exercise in Blood Sugar Management

Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of effective blood sugar control. Exercise offers numerous benefits:

1. Improves insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to use glucose more effectively
2. Helps lower blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake by muscles
3. Aids in weight management, which can improve overall metabolic health
4. Reduces stress and promotes better sleep, indirectly supporting blood sugar control
5. Strengthens the cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of diabetes-related heart complications

What types of exercise are most effective for blood sugar control? A combination of aerobic exercises (like walking, cycling, or swimming) and resistance training (strength exercises) tends to be most beneficial for overall blood sugar management and metabolic health.

Technological Advancements in Blood Sugar Monitoring and Management

Recent years have seen significant technological progress in diabetes management tools:

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems: Provide real-time blood sugar data throughout the day and night
• Smart Insulin Pens: Track insulin doses and provide reminders for injections
• Artificial Pancreas Systems: Combine CGM with insulin pumps to automatically adjust insulin delivery
• Smartphone Apps: Offer features for tracking blood sugar, medications, diet, and exercise
• Telemedicine Platforms: Enable remote consultations with healthcare providers for ongoing diabetes management

How do these technologies improve diabetes management? These advancements provide more detailed and timely information about blood sugar patterns, allowing for more precise and personalized treatment adjustments. They also empower individuals to take a more active role in managing their condition.

The Future of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention

Research in diabetes management continues to evolve, with several promising areas of study:

1. Gene Therapy: Exploring ways to correct genetic factors contributing to diabetes
2. Immunotherapy: Developing treatments to prevent or reverse the autoimmune attack in type 1 diabetes
3. Artificial Intelligence: Using AI to predict blood sugar fluctuations and optimize treatment plans
4. Gut Microbiome Research: Investigating the role of gut bacteria in glucose metabolism and diabetes development
5. Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Creating more convenient and effective ways to administer diabetes medications

What potential breakthroughs might we see in diabetes treatment in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, areas such as stem cell therapy for beta cell regeneration and more advanced closed-loop insulin delivery systems show particular promise for transforming diabetes care.

Blood sugar test

Medical Tests A-Z

Definition

A blood sugar test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood.

Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including brain cells. Glucose is a building block for carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are found in fruit, cereal, bread, pasta, and rice. Carbohydrates are quickly turned into glucose in your body. This can raise your blood glucose level.

Hormones made in the body help control blood glucose level.

Alternative Names

Random blood sugar; Blood sugar level; Fasting blood sugar; Glucose test; Diabetic screening – blood sugar test; Diabetes – blood sugar test

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed.

How to Prepare for the Test

The test may be done in the following ways:

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• After you have not eaten anything for at least 8 hours (fasting)
• At any time of the day (random)
• Two hours after you drink a certain amount of glucose (oral glucose tolerance test)

How the Test will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or slight bruising. This soon goes away.

Why the Test is Performed

Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs of diabetes. More than likely, the provider will order a fasting blood sugar test.

The blood glucose test is also used to monitor people who already have diabetes.

The test may also be done if you have:

• An increase in how often you need to urinate
• Recently gained a lot of weight
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or a change in the way you normally talk or behave
• Fainting spells
• Seizures (for the first time)
• Unconsciousness or coma

adam.com”>SCREENING FOR DIABETES

This test may also be used to screen a person for diabetes.

High blood sugar and diabetes may not cause symptoms in the early stages. A fasting blood sugar test is almost always done to screen for diabetes.

If you are over age 45, you should be tested every 3 years.

If you’re overweight (body mass index, or BMI, of 25 or higher) and have any of the risk factors below, ask your provider about getting tested at an earlier age and more often:

• High blood sugar level on a previous test
• Blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, or unhealthy cholesterol levels
• History of heart disease
• Member of a high-risk ethnic group (African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American, or Pacific Islander)
• Woman who has been previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes
• Polycystic ovary disease (condition in which a woman has an imbalance of female sex hormones causing cysts in the ovaries)
• Close relative with diabetes (such as a parent, brother, or sister)
• Not physically active

adam.com”>Children age 10 and older who are overweight and have at least two of the risk factors listed above should be tested for type 2 diabetes every 3 years, even if they have no symptoms.

Normal Results

If you had a fasting blood glucose test, a level between 70 and 100 mg/dL (3.9 and 5.6 mmol/L) is considered normal.

If you had a random blood glucose test, a normal result depends on when you last ate. Most of the time, the blood glucose level will be 125 mg/dL (6.9 mmol/L) or lower.

The examples above show the common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.

Blood glucose measured by a blood test from a vein is considered more accurate that blood glucose measured from a fingerstick with a blood glucose meter, or blood glucose measured by a continuous glucose monitor.  

What Abnormal Results Mean

If you had a fasting blood glucose test:

• A level of 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L) means you have impaired fasting glucose, a type of prediabetes. This increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• A level of 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) or higher usually means you have diabetes.

If you had a random blood glucose test:

• A level of 200 mg/dL (11 mmol/L) or higher often means you have diabetes.
• Your provider will order a fasting blood glucose, A1C test, or glucose tolerance test, depending on your random blood glucose test result.
• In someone who has diabetes, an abnormal result on the random blood glucose test may mean that the diabetes is not well controlled. Talk with your provider about your blood glucose goals if you have diabetes.

Other medical problems can also cause a higher-than-normal blood glucose level, including:

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• Overactive thyroid gland
• Pancreatic cancer
• Swelling and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Stress due to trauma, stroke, heart attack, or surgery
• Rare tumors, including pheochromocytoma, acromegaly, Cushing syndrome, or glucagonoma

A lower-than-normal blood glucose level (hypoglycemia) may be due to:

• Hypopituitarism (a pituitary gland disorder)
• Underactive thyroid gland or adrenal gland
• Tumor in the pancreas (insulinoma – very rare)
• Too little food
• Too much insulin or other diabetes medicines
• Liver or kidney disease
• Weight loss after weight loss surgery
• Vigorous exercise

Some medicines can raise or lower your blood glucose level. Before having the test, tell your provider about all the medicines you are taking.

For some thin young women, a fasting blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL (3. 9 mmol/L) may be normal.

Risks

There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Multiple punctures to locate veins
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

References

American Diabetes Association. 2. Classification and diagnosis of diabetes: standards of medical care in diabetes – 2019. Diabetes Care. 2019;42(Suppl 1):S13-S28. PMID: 30559228 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30559228/.

Chernecky CC, Berger BJ. Glucose, 2-hour postprandial – serum norm. In: Chernecky CC, Berger BJ, eds. Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures. 6th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:585.

Chernecky CC, Berger BJ. Glucose tolerance test (GTT, OGTT) – blood norm. In: Chernecky CC, Berger BJ, eds. Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures. 6th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:591-593.

Review Date: 26/01/2020

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright ©2019 A.D.A.M., Inc., as modified by University of California San Francisco. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Health. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.

Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis: Tests, Levels, Symptoms, Outlook

To make a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, doctors can use several different blood tests. You’ll typically need to be tested at least twice to confirm a diagnosis. Most people are tested for diabetes because of age or other risk factors.

Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) condition that happens when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin, or can’t use insulin well. As a result, your blood sugar can become too high, which can lead to serious health problems over time.

The good news is that type 2 diabetesisa manageable condition. Once you’re diagnosed, you can work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan to stay healthy. Early diagnosis and management is important to help prevent serious outcomes.

Read on to learn more about the early signs of type 2 diabetes, the tests doctors use to diagnose the condition, and what to expect during the testing process.

Types of diabetes

The three main types of diabetes are gestational diabetes, type 1 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens when you develop high blood sugar during pregnancy. It’s important to manage gestational diabetes well to reduce the risk of complications for you or your baby.

Gestational diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born. But having gestational diabetes increases your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. After pregnancy, your doctor will test your blood sugar level to make sure you no longer have diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes

People with type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin in their bodies. As a result, they need to take insulin every day. Type 1 makes up 5 to 10 percent of all cases of diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s usually diagnosed by early adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes has a different cause than type 1 diabetes. Unlike those with type 1, people with type 2 diabetes can produce insulin, but their bodies don’t use it very well.

This type makes up 90 to 95 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. It’s sometimes called adult-onset diabetes. Although it can occur at any age, type 2 diabetes is more common in people older than 45.

If you think you might have diabetes, talk to your doctor. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can cause severe complications, such as:

• amputation of the feet or legs
• vision problems or blindness
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• stroke

Type 2 diabetes is also associated with high cholesterol. It can cause your LDL or “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides to go up, and your HDL or “good” cholesterol to go down. These changes can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.

While diabetes can usually be managed well, it’s important to take your treatment plan seriously. According to the CDC, diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States.

Many of the severe complications of diabetes can be avoided with treatment. That’s why an early diagnosis is so important.

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Some people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes because they have noticeable diabetes symptoms. Early symptoms can include:

• increased or frequent urination
• increased thirst
• fatigue
• blurry vision

Skin conditions

There are also several skin conditions that can sometimes be a sign of diabetes. These include:

• cuts and sores that won’t heal. The effects of high blood sugar can reduce your skin’s ability to heal. This can lead to infections and skin ulcers.
• darker, thicker, velvety skin in places where your skin folds. Acanthosis nigricans is a skin pigment condition found in areas like your armpits, neck, hands, knees, groin, and inside the elbows.
• skin tags. These tiny growths of skin usually happen on your eyelids, armpits, neck, and groin.
• raised bumps that turn into patches of solid, hard skin. Necorbiosis lipoidica can cause yellow, brown, or reddish patches to form on your skin.
• unusually thick, hard skin on your fingers, toes, or both. Digital sclerosis can make it difficult to move your fingers.
• a rash of small, itchy, painful, pimple-like bumps that turn yellow. Eruptive xanthomatosis can happen when a person has high triglycerides. Often, people diagnosed with eruptive xanthomatosis have diabetes. But this condition also happens in people who do not have diabetes.
• shin spots. Diabetic dermopathy causes visible spots or lines that create a small dent in the skin.

Keep in mind that these symptoms, on their own, do not always indicate diabetes. But if you notice these changes, it’s a good idea to get them checked out by a doctor.

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes often develop gradually. Because you may or may not have symptoms, your doctor will use blood tests to confirm your diagnosis.

These blood tests can be used to measure the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood:

• A1C (glycated hemoglobin) test
• fasting plasma glucose test
• random plasma glucose test
• oral glucose tolerance test

We’ll look at each of these tests in more detail later in the article.

Your doctor will request one or more blood tests to confirm your diagnosis. A test will usually be completed more than once to confirm the result, unless you have clear symptoms of diabetes.

What to expect during blood sugar testing

To do a blood test, a lab technician, nurse, or other healthcare professional will use a small needle to draw a sample of your blood. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

Some diabetes tests require you to prepare for the test. For example, you may be asked to fast (avoid eating and drinking) for a set period of time before the test. Your doctor will give you instructions to tell you how to prepare for your tests.

Your blood sugar test results can be affected by other health conditions or medications, so tell your doctor about any illness or stress you’re experiencing. And make sure your doctor knows about medications you’re taking.

Who should be tested for type 2 diabetes?

Most often, people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes through routine screening tests. Routine screening means that you are tested because you may be at risk of having diabetes, even when you don’t have any signs or symptoms.

Routine screening for diabetes typically starts at age 45. You should be screened sooner if you have:

• high blood pressure
• cardiovascular disease
• obesity or are overweight
• polycystic ovary syndrome
• acanthosis negricans, a skin condition
• a family history of type 2 diabetes
• a history of gestational diabetes or you’ve given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds (4. 1 killograms)
• Black, Latino/Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Alaska Native, or Pacific Islander descent
• a low level of HDL (“good”) cholesterol or a high triglyceride level
• a sedentary lifestyle

Routine screening uses blood tests to check for signs of diabetes.

Next, let’s take a closer look at some blood tests commonly used to diagnose diabetes.

What is A1C?

The A1C test measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. It’s sometimes called the glycated hemoglobin test.

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) attached to the hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in your red blood cells. The higher your A1C, the higher your recent blood sugar levels have been.

An advantage of the A1C test is convenience. You don’t have to fast before this test. And the blood sample can be collected at any time of day.

Here’s what your A1C test results could mean:

A1C	Result
Below 5. 7%	Normal
5.7 to 6.4%	Prediabetes
6.5% or higher	Diabetes

A1C testing is also used to monitor your blood sugar control after you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes. If you have diabetes, your A1C levels should be checked at least twice a year.

Factors that can affect A1C results

A1C measures sugar that’s attached to hemoglobin in your blood. One type of hemoglobin, hemoglobin A, is the most common. But there are many more types of hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin variants. In some cases, having a hemoglobin variant can affect your A1C results.

About 7 percent of people around the world are born with hemoglobin variants, and most people don’t know they have it. Some hemoglobin variants are more common in people of African, Mediterranean, or Asian heritage.

Having a hemoglobin variant can cause your A1C test result to be incorrectly high or low. If your doctor finds that your A1C results don’t seem to be consistent with your symptoms or your other test results, they will likely ask for additional tests.

Some health conditions such as anemia, kidney disease, and liver failure can also affect A1C results. Don’t worry — your doctor will repeat the tests before making a diagnosis.

The fasting plasma glucose test measures your blood sugar at the time of the test. This is different from the A1C test, which measures blood sugar levels over a longer period of time.

For the fasting plasma glucose test, a sample of your blood will be taken after you’ve fasted for at least 8 hours, usually overnight. This means that you have consumed no food or drinks during that time. Your doctor will tell you if you can sip water while fasting before the test.

Your test results will usually be expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Here’s what your results could mean:

Random blood sugar testing is usually used for people who have symptoms of diabetes. A random blood sugar test can be done at any time of day. You do not need to fast before this test.

No matter when you last ate, a random blood sugar test of 200 mg/dL or above suggests that you may have diabetes. This is particularly true if you already have symptoms of diabetes.

The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measures your blood sugar before and after you drink a sugary liquid that’s specially formulated for the test. Like the fasting plasma glucose test, you’ll be required to fast overnight beforehand.

When you arrive at your appointment, you’ll first undergo a fasting blood sugar test. Then you’ll drink the sugary liquid. After you’re done, your doctor will test your blood sugar levels periodically for several hours.

This test detects diabetes better than other tests, such as the fasting plasma glucose test. But it’s more costly and takes longer than other blood sugar tests.

For an oral glucose tolerance test, here’s what your results could mean:

A different version of this test is used to diagnose gestational diabetes. The numbers your doctor will use to make a diagnosis are also different.

Initially, your test results may vary. For instance, a fasting plasma glucose test may show that you have diabetes but an A1C test may show that you don’t. The reverse can also be true.

How does this happen? It could mean that you’re in an early stage of diabetes, and your blood sugar levels may not be high enough to show on every test. Some blood sugar test results can also vary day to day based on a variety of factors, like stress or illness.

Remember that your doctor will typically need to repeat any test to confirm your diagnosis.

You should always feel free to ask more questions or get a second opinion if you have any concerns or doubts about your results.

Once you know you have type 2 diabetes, you can work with your doctor to create a treatment plan. This can include a plan for:

• healthy weight loss
• changes to your diet
• medication
• regular blood sugar testing

It’s important to follow through with your treatments and medical appointments. Talk with your doctor about your blood sugar goal, and how often you should test your blood sugar. Monitoring your blood sugar regularly and tracking your symptoms are essential steps for your long-term health.

There’s no existing cure for type 2 diabetes. But this condition is highly manageable with many effective treatment options.

If you’re over the age of 45, are experiencing symptoms of diabetes, or you have a condition that increases your diabetes risk, talk to your doctor about getting tested.

The first step is taking the tests and understanding your test results. It’s important to go over your results with your doctor. To confirm your diagnosis, you doctor will usually need to test you more than once.

If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, work with your doctor to start a treatment plan that’s right for you.

By following your treatment plan, you can help to avoid the complications of diabetes.

Plasma Glucose

Study Overview

Glucose is a simple sugar that is the body’s main source of energy. Carbohydrates consumed by a person are broken down into glucose and other simple sugars, which are absorbed by the small intestine and enter the bloodstream.

Most body cells require glucose for energy production. The brain and nerve cells need it not only as a source of energy, but also as a regulator of their activity, since they can only function if the blood glucose reaches a certain level.

The body can use glucose thanks to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. It regulates the movement of glucose from the blood into the cells of the body, forcing them to accumulate excess energy in the form of a short-term reserve – glycogen or in the form of triglycerides deposited in fat cells. A person cannot live without glucose and without insulin, the content of which in the blood must be balanced.

Normally, plasma glucose levels rise slightly after meals, while secreted insulin lowers its concentration. The level of insulin depends on the amount and composition of the food taken. If the blood glucose concentration drops too low, which can happen after several hours of fasting or after intense physical work, then glucagon (another pancreatic hormone) is released, which causes the liver cells to convert glycogen back into glucose, thereby increasing its content in the blood. .

Maintaining normal blood glucose levels is essential. When the glucose-insulin feedback mechanism is working properly, blood glucose remains fairly stable. If this balance is disturbed and the blood sugar level rises, then the body seeks to restore it, firstly, by producing more insulin, and secondly, by excreting glucose in the urine.

Extreme forms of hyper- and hypoglycemia (excess and lack of glucose) can threaten the patient’s life, causing organ failure, brain damage and coma. Chronically elevated blood glucose can damage the kidneys, eyes, heart, blood vessels, and nervous system. Chronic hypoglycemia is dangerous damage to the brain and nervous system.

Sometimes women experience hyperglycemia (gestational diabetes) during pregnancy. If left untreated, it can cause the mother to give birth to a large baby with low blood glucose levels. Interestingly, a woman suffering from hyperglycemia during pregnancy will not necessarily have diabetes after pregnancy.

What is research used for?

Glucose levels are important in the diagnosis of hyper- and hypoglycemia and thus in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes mellitus. Sugar testing can be done on an empty stomach (after 8-10 hours of fasting), spontaneously (at any time), after meals, and can also be part of the oral glucose tolerance test (GTT).

If diabetes is diagnosed, a fasting blood glucose test or glucose tolerance test is recommended. Moreover, for the final confirmation of the diagnosis, the tests should be carried out twice at different times.

Most pregnant women are tested for gestational diabetes (a temporary form of hyperglycemia) between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.

Diabetics should closely monitor their blood glucose levels to adjust their tablet intake and insulin injections. It is usually required several times a day to determine how much the glucose concentration deviates from the norm.

Measuring glucose at home is usually carried out using a special device – a glucometer, in which a test strip with a pre-applied drop of blood from the patient’s finger is placed.

When is this test ordered?

• In the preventive examination of patients without suspected diabetes, since diabetes is a disease that begins with minor symptoms. It is especially important to monitor blood glucose levels in patients with a genetic predisposition to diabetes, those who are overweight and those over 45 years of age.
• In the diagnosis of diabetes in patients with symptoms of hyper- or hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hyperglycemia or high sugar: increased thirst, increased urination, fatigue, blurred vision, increased susceptibility to infections. Symptoms of hypoglycemia or low sugar: sweating, increased appetite, anxiety, clouding of consciousness, blurred vision.
• If you pass out or become very weak, to find out if they are caused by low blood sugar.
• If a patient has a pre-diabetic condition (in which plasma glucose is higher than normal, but lower than in patients with diabetes), the analysis is carried out at regular intervals.
• For people diagnosed with diabetes, a blood glucose test is given in conjunction with a glycated hemoglobin (A1c) test to monitor changes in blood glucose over time.
• In some cases, a plasma glucose test may be performed in conjunction with an insulin and C-peptide test to monitor insulin production.
• Pregnant women are usually tested for gestational diabetes at the end of term. If a woman has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes before, then she takes a glucose test throughout the pregnancy, as well as after childbirth.

“Diabetes: know and manage!”

November is diabetes prevention month.

World Diabetes Day is celebrated annually on November 14 under the auspices of the United Nations. According to the World Health Organization, by 2030 diabetes will be the seventh leading cause of death in humans.

According to the WHO, the number of people with diabetes in the world has quadrupled over the past 40 years. It is the only serious non-communicable disease in which the risk of premature death increases rather than decreases.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, there are currently 537 million adults living with diabetes in the world – that’s one in ten people.

Diabetes without proper treatment can lead to complications such as blindness, limb amputation, kidney failure, heart attack and stroke.

Diabetes, according to scientists, significantly affects the risk of hospitalization with coronavirus infection. Patients who have had a severe form of a new coronavirus infection are also at risk of being diagnosed with diabetes.

In Russia, according to Rosstat, there are about 4.8 million people with diabetes. The number of new cases of diabetes increases annually by about 300 thousand people.

According to the Ministry of Health and Rosstat, in 2020, 410.5 thousand cases of diabetes mellitus were registered in Russia for the first time.

According to research results, more than half of Russians do not know that type 2 diabetes is preceded by prediabetes. At the same time, almost 20% of the population suffers from it. In addition, every second person with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes) does not even know about it.

Every year World Diabetes Day has a theme. The theme for World Diabetes Day 2021-2023 is “Access to diabetes care – if not now, when?” (Access to Diabetes Care – If Not Now, When?).

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the world. It is chronic, develops due to a lack or absence of the hormone insulin in the body, resulting in a significant increase in the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood (hyperglycemia). Manifested:

 feeling of thirst;

– dry mouth;

– increase in the amount of urine excreted;

– increased appetite;

– increased fatigue;

weakness;

– dizziness;

– visual impairment;

– dryness and itching of the skin;

– slow wound healing, etc.

High risk of stroke, kidney failure, myocardial infarction, limb gangrene, blindness. Sharp fluctuations in blood sugar cause life-threatening conditions – hypo- and hyperglycemic coma.

There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes mellitus – insulin-dependent, juvenile or childhood. It is characterized by insufficient production and secretion of the hormone insulin by the endocrine cells of the pancreas, caused by their destruction as a result of various factors (viral infection, stress, autoimmune aggression, and others), therefore, its daily administration is necessary. Type 2 diabetes mellitus – non-insulin-dependent, or adult diabetes, develops as a result of a decrease in the sensitivity of insulin-dependent tissues to the action of insulin (insulin resistance).

The majority of patients have type 2 diabetes, which is most often caused by excess weight and lack of physical activity. Symptoms of the disease may be mild. Therefore, the disease is diagnosed several years after the onset, often due to the development of complications. Until recently, this type of diabetes was observed only among adults, but now it also affects children.

There are healthy people who have reduced glucose tolerance (PTH) and impaired fasting glycemia (IFG), which is an intermediate state between the norm and diabetes mellitus.

According to research results, more than half of Russians do not know that type 2 diabetes is preceded by prediabetes. At the same time, almost 20% of the population suffers from it. In addition, every second person with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes) does not even know about it.

The risk of disease increases if a person:

 moves little;

– smokes or drinks alcohol;

– has relatives with a similar disease;

– has diseases of the thyroid and pancreas;

– eats poorly and improperly;

– suffering from hypertension and atherosclerotic disease.

Patients at risk of developing diabetes mellitus – patients with obesity, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia are often met by physicians of a therapeutic profile. It is these specialists who should be the first to determine the level of glucose in the blood on an empty stomach. Normally, this indicator should not exceed 6.0 mmol/l in capillary blood or 7.0 mmol/l in venous blood plasma. If diabetes is suspected, the doctor must refer the patient to an endocrinologist. It is very important to carry out mass screening examinations, including medical examinations of the population and preventive examinations. It is early diagnosis and timely treatment that are the key conditions for preventing complications of diabetes mellitus.

More than 425 million people in the world are currently living with diabetes. In Russia (according to Rosstat) – about 4.8 million, and every year this figure increases by about 300 thousand people.

Experts estimate that by 2030 the number of patients diagnosed with diabetes will reach 5.8 million. According to other studies, much more – 9-10 million people.

Patients with diabetes require the most direct involvement in the treatment process, not to mention motivation and inner strength.