Glucose Fasting
The Glucose Fasting Test (also known as the Fasting Blood Sugar or FBS test) measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your bloodstream after a period of prolonged fasting. Glucose is the body's primary source of energy, and its level is regulated by the hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas.
This test is the standard initial screening tool for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and pre-diabetes.
Why Do You Need This Test?
The Fasting Glucose Test provides an accurate snapshot of your body's ability to regulate blood sugar when no food is being processed. It is essential for:
- Screening for Diabetes: Identifying individuals with elevated sugar levels who may have Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes.
- Diagnosing Pre-Diabetes: Detecting slightly elevated levels that indicate a high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later on.
- Monitoring Treatment: Assessing how effectively diet, exercise, and medication (like insulin or Metformin) are managing blood sugar levels in known diabetic patients.
- Investigating Symptoms: Evaluating symptoms related to high blood sugar (e.g., increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision) or low blood sugar (e.g., sweating, dizziness, confusion).
