Glucose Tolerance Test:
Description:
The glucose tolerance test measures the body's ability to use glucose. Glucose is a type of sugar found in the blood.
Glucose, also known as blood glucose, is regulated by a hormone called insulin. When insulin is functioning properly, the blood sugar level remains constant. If insulin does not work properly or the body does not produce enough, you may have diabetes.
The analysis is usually used to diagnose medical conditions caused by the body's inability to properly use glucose.
The test can be done in a doctor's office, a clinic or a hospital.
When will the review be undertaken?
The test is commonly used during pregnancy to determine if a woman has gestational diabetes (a temporary form of diabetes caused by pregnancy). It can also be used regularly for screening for the risk of diabetes.
Objectives?
This test is commonly used to diagnose certain medical conditions characterized by inadequate glucose utilization such as prediabetes (when blood sugar is higher than normal, but not enough for diabetes), diabetes and gestational diabetes (diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
It also helps determine if you have another condition that would affect your blood glucose level (eg Cushing's syndrome, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, acromegaly, pheochromocytoma, hemochromatosis , Addison's disease, hypothyroidism or cirrhosis).
Risks and precautionary measures:
Although the glucose tolerance test is considered safe, it carries some risk of side effects or complications. Although rare, side effects or complications may include the following:
- an infection, if the area is not adequately sterilized prior to sample collection;
- excessive bleeding from the punctured area;
- bruising or swelling at the point of insertion of the needle;
- a feeling of light-headedness
Throughout the test you will be monitored which will target the rate of your glucose in the blood that should not go down too much. If this is the case, you may notice weakness, sweating, anxiety, hunger or other symptoms. Do not forget to inform the person taking the test if you have any of these symptoms.
People with bleeding disorders or anyone taking medications that decrease the ability of the blood to clot (eg, warfarin, ASA or other blood thinners) should be advised to inform the technician before blood samples are taken. These disorders and these medications may require special monitoring during the blood test.
If a symptom worries you as a result of this test, consult your doctor. Take the time to learn about all the risks of complications and side effects as well as the precautions that you or your doctor should take to avoid them. Make sure your doctor understands your concerns.
What's going to happen ?
This test is usually done in a laboratory or in your doctor's office. If you undergo this test to detect diabetes or prediabetes, a blood sample will be taken as soon as you arrive at the laboratory to determine your fasting blood sugar level. Then you will be asked to drink a sugary drink containing glucose. More blood samples will be taken 1 hour and 2 hours later. Samples may be taken at other times, and your doctor may request additional specimens as needed. This exam can last up to 3 hours.
In most cases, you will be asked to swallow a sweet drink upon arrival if you come for a gestational diabetes test. A blood sample will be taken approximately 1 hour later. If the result of this test is abnormal, you may be asked to have another test.
Blood is collected in small tubes labeled with information about you.
The technician should wear new latex gloves and use a new disposable needle for each sample.
The technician or nurse wraps a wide elastic band around the top of your arm to better locate the vein. This is done, usually in the crook of the elbow, this area is disinfected with a swab soaked in alcohol. The technician inserts a needle into your vein and collects the blood in a tube. He removes the elastic band and, once the blood is drawn, he removes and throws the needle. You will need to hold a small piece of cotton at the place of collection until the bleeding stops. A small bandage will keep the cotton in place.
This analysis is virtually painless in most people, even if the slight pinching felt at the time of insertion of the needle is normal.
Conditions of the exam:
Before you take this test, discuss with your doctor the advantages, disadvantages, long-term risks and consequences associated with it. Make sure you understand what is going to happen and that you are satisfied with the doctor's answers to your questions.
If you undergo this test for diabetes or prediabetes, you should eat and drink normally during the 3 days before it, but do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before it is done. Follow the instructions that your doctor or health care professional has provided.
Tell your doctor everything you are taking, whether prescription or over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies. Inform them of all your drug allergies and any health problems you may have.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need to stop taking any of your medications before the test.
What will I feel after?
Some people experience a slight bruise or a slight soreness at the point where the needle entered the vein. Keep pressure on this area after removing the needle to prevent bruising.
Results:
Blood glucose values after challenge are below normal, normal or above normal. Many conditions can cause blood sugar levels higher than normal.
For example, if you are pregnant and your results are above normal, you may have gestational diabetes. If you are not pregnant and your results are above normal, you may be suffering from diabetes.
Your doctor will interpret the results of this test taking into account other symptoms that may be present. If your results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend other tests.
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analysis of diabetes