Interpreting Your Blood Sugar Test: A Beginner’s Guide

When you think about checking your health, blood sugar probably isn’t the first thing that crosses your mind. But it ought to be! This is due to the considerable influence your blood glucose levels have on your health. If you have a condition like diabetes or just want to keep on top of your health, knowing how to read your blood sugar test results is key. In this guide, let's go deeper to understand all about blood sugar tests and how to take one.

So, let’s get started!

Understanding The Blood Sugar (Glucose) Test

A blood sugar test (or blood glucose test) measures the amount of glucose in your blood. Glucose is a simple carbohydrate that comes from the food you eat, particularly carbohydrates (bread, rice, fruit). Once absorbed into the bloodstream, glucose is transported to cells, where it is used to produce energy.^{1 2}

Types of Blood Sugar Tests

Now that you understand what a blood sugar test is, let's learn about its various types:

• Capillary Blood Sugar Test

This is an easy, simple & quick blood sugar test. The test uses a small finger prick to collect a drop of blood, which is then placed on a glucose strip and read using a portable glucometer—making it easy to do at home. It provides instant results, making regular monitoring even more convenient.¹

• Plasma/Venous Blood Glucose Test

Here, a qualified technician will draw a sample of your blood from a vein in your arm and send it to the lab for analysis. This test is more accurate than the other and is often part of a blood work panel. So, you will not only receive an accurate reading of the blood glucose, but you also get a complete snapshot of your health. What’s even better is that all of this is done in a single test panel, without paying for extra.¹

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The fasting blood sugar test is one of the most common tests to screen for diabetes. For this, you need to fast (typically around 8–12 hours) before the blood is drawn to be free from the effects of food or drinks. This gives doctors a clear baseline reading of the glucose levels. It’s usually done first thing in the morning.¹

• At-Home Monitoring

If you’re already managing diabetes, monitoring things at home is absolutely necessary. You can measure the levels using a glucose meter with a quick finger prick. Or, you can try a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for ongoing feeds on your blood sugar level throughout the day (and night, too!). If you test regularly, it'll help you modify the treatment if required to keep your blood sugar in control.¹

Who Should Check Their Blood Sugar?

Not everyone needs to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. It is worth discussing with your doctor whether or not you need to monitor your blood sugar. However, certain people may benefit from frequent blood sugar checks, including:^{1 2}

• Those who take insulin to manage their blood sugar.
• Pregnant women, particularly those at risk for gestational diabetes.
• Patients who struggle to maintain blood glucose levels despite following a treatment plan.
• People with low blood glucose levels 
• Individuals who experience low blood sugar without the usual warning signs, such as shaking or dizziness.
• Those who have ketones in their blood due to high glucose levels.

Normal Vs High Blood Sugar

Knowing your blood sugar levels helps you stay on top of your health. Here’s a quick look at what’s normal and what might be a red flag.

Normal Blood Sugar

Most people maintain a healthy fasting blood glucose between 70 to 99 mg/dL. If your blood sugar falls into this category, your body handles glucose just right, and you are in good health. That is why you need to have this target to keep your health check on course!¹

High Blood Sugar

If your blood sugar levels are between 100-125 mg/dL, it’s a sign of pre-diabetes. This means you’re at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Once your fasting blood sugar hits 126 mg/dL or more, it’s usually a clear indicator of diabetes. Also, if your blood sugar stays high for a long time, it puts you at risk for developing other health problems, such as heart and nerve damage.¹ So act now and prioritise testing because lifestyle changes today can make all the difference tomorrow!

Low Blood Glucose

When your blood sugar level drops below 70 mg/dL, you can feel weak, dizzy, and slightly confused. Low blood sugar (also called hypoglycemia) is extremely common in individuals with diabetes. But if you are not diabetic and you experience low blood sugar levels, then it is a sign of some serious medical conditions, such as kidney or liver problems.¹

For a brief overview, see the table below:¹

It doesn't matter whether your blood sugar is elevated or low; it is extremely important to remain careful and monitor your health consistently. To be fully aware of your current condition, whether diabetic or non-diabetic, undergoing a blood sugar test is the most reliable method.

However,if you've been postponing the test due to long queues and inconvenience, you need not worry any longer. With our Ayushman Panel, it’s now easy and convenient. Our Ayushman Screen test covers 53 key parameters, including heart health, diabetes, thyroid function, kidney condition, and much more. All you need to do is simply book a test online, and a certified paramedic will come to your doorsteps to collect the sample. And guess what? You'll get a detailed report within 24 hours.

Tips To Prepare For A Blood Sugar Test

It is quite easy to prepare for a blood sugar test, but you must take a couple of easy steps to achieve the right results:

1. Fasting (for fasting tests)

If you're going to have a fasting blood sugar test, you must fast for about 8-12 hours before. That is, no food or drinks (except water) for that time. It’s usually done in the morning to get the clearest picture.^{1 3 4}

2. Avoid Exercise

Strenuous exercise may influence your blood sugar levels. That is why it is generally advised to avoid intense workouts on the day of the test.⁴

3. Check Your Medications

Some medications can affect blood sugar, and taking them may give unsure results. Therefore, you should always discuss with your doctor whether you need to reschedule your medications prior to the test.⁴

4. Stay Hydrated

Make sure you drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. It makes getting your blood drawn way easier and helps you feel good. If you are doing the glucose test at home, always check the results with the doctors so they can help you interpret them.⁴

The Final Say- Blood Sugar Test

Regular blood sugar tests are key to staying on top of your health, whether you're managing diabetes, pre-diabetes, or you simply want to keep an eye on things.  By testing regularly, you and your doctor can make smarter decisions and adjust your lifestyle accordingly. So, stay ahead of the game and make blood sugar screening a priority!

FAQs

1. What To Expect During A Blood Glucose Test?

A medical technician will take a blood sample either by a very quick finger prick or from a vein in your arm. If it's a fasting test, you'll need to avoid food and drinks for about 8-12 hours before the test.^{1 3 4}

2. How Often Should I Check My Blood Sugar?

If you are diabetic, your doctor may require you to monitor your blood sugar on a daily basis or even twice a day. Otherwise, once every 3 years is recommended.^{5 6}

3. Will Stress Impact My Blood Sugar Level?

Yes, stress will make your blood sugar rise by releasing hormones like cortisol. However, with ongoing monitoring, along with lifestyle change and diet, it can be managed.⁷