FBS test

Blood sugar fasting test is done to diagnose patients suspected to be suffering from diabetes or hypoglycemia. This test can be done in fasting state, post glucose intake (post-prandial) or randomly. It is also done to diagnose diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).  Though HbA1c is a preferred test to diagnose diabetes due to several advantages but blood glucose estimation is the test of choice for diagnosis in patients of hemoglobin variants, sickle cell anemia, pregnancy (2nd & 3rd trimester), postpartum (immediately after pregnancy), G6PD deficiency, HIV, hemodialysis, recent blood loss, transfusion or erythropoeitin therapy. In the above mentioned cases HbA1c is not used to diagnose diabetes

Blood sugar fasting test measures blood glucose levels in plasma of the patient

The test measures a patient's blood glucose levels in their plasma. It is a blood test that measures blood glucose levels. In addition to diagnosing diabetes, this test can also monitor the patient's response to treatment. High blood glucose levels can be a sign of diabetes, and the Glucose Plasma Test can also be used to monitor your diabetes treatment response.


 

Blood sugar fasting test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

Result values considered normal or abnormal differ basis type of test done i.e., random, fasting, post-prandial
Fasting blood sugar: 
Hypoglycemia: <70 mg/ dL; Normal: 70-99 mg/dL; Impaired: 100-125 mg/ dL; Diabetes: 126 and above
Post-prandial/ Random:
Normal: 139 mg/ dL and less; Impaired: 140-199 mg/ dL; Diabetes: 200 and above

Glucose plasma is a form of sugar found in the blood. It is produced by the liver and is used by the body to provide energy. The glucose plasma test measures the amount of glucose in your blood. High levels of glucose can indicate diabetes or other metabolic problems.


 

The term "plasma" refers to the clear liquid portion of the blood that contains proteins, water and other substances. Glucose is dissolved in this plasma and can be tested to measure glucose levels in the blood

The Glucose Plasma Test is also known as a fasting blood glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test.

If you have diabetes, you should do the glucose plasma test. This test is done to check your blood sugar levels. The test is usually done in the morning before you have breakfast. Glucose is a type of sugar found in both the blood and plasma. The glucose plasma test measures the level of glucose in the plasma.

 

Sometimes, your doctor may order other tests along with the glucose plasma test. For example, suppose you have a family history of diabetes or multiple risk factors. In that case, your doctor may also order an A1C test to measure your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. Your doctor might also order an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) if they suspect you have diabetes during pregnancy.

-Fasting blood glucose test
-Fasting blood sugar test


 

The Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) test is a medical test that measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood after you have fasted for at least 8 hours. It is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes.

The FBS test is recommended for individuals with risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or displaying symptoms such as increased thirst and frequent urination. It is also recommended for routine screening starting at age 35, especially if there are other risk factors.

The FBS test is essential because it helps in the early detection and diagnosis of diabetes and prediabetes. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent or delay the onset of complications associated with diabetes.

The benefits of the FBS blood test include early detection of diabetes and prediabetes, monitoring of blood glucose levels in people with diabetes, adjustment of treatment plans based on test results, and prevention of complications associated with diabetes through early intervention.

For individuals without diabetes, a normal fasting glucose test result is less than 100 mg/dL. For individuals with managed diabetes, the normal fasting blood glucose range is 80-130 mg/dL.

To lower your fasting glucose, you can eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, whole grains, and non-starchy vegetables, limit your sugar and salt intake, stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight, and follow a medication regimen that is prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Yes, fasting for at least 8 hours is required before the FBS test. If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider may advise you to postpone your morning dose of insulin or diabetes medication until after the test. 

When the FBS test shows a glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher in two separate tests, it can indicate diabetes. However, one high result may require further diagnostic tests, like an oral glucose tolerance test or an HbA1c test, to confirm the diagnosis. 

Yes, home sample collection is offered for the FBS test by many diagnostic centers, including Metropolis Healthcare, enabling you to complete the test conveniently and comfortably from the comfort of your own home. 

The reports for the FBS test are usually available after 4 hours, depending on the day/time the sample was collected and processed.

To prepare for the glucose fasting test, you'll need to fast for 8-10 hours beforehand, consuming only water. Avoid food, beverages (including coffee and tea), smoking, and strenuous exercise during this fasting period. Your doctor will provide specific instructions to follow for accurate results.

The frequency of fasting blood sugar tests depends on your individual risk factors and health status. People at risk for diabetes or diagnosed with prediabetes may be advised to get tested annually. Those with diabetes usually require more frequent monitoring, often several times a year. Consult your doctor for personalised recommendations.

The FBS test is primarily used to detect prediabetes and diabetes. Early diagnosis allows for timely management, which helps prevent or delay serious complications like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage (neuropathy), vision problems, and diabetic ketoacidosis. By identifying elevated blood sugar levels early, the glucose fasting test enables proactive steps to control blood glucose and safeguard your health.