Diabetes Gold

This panel measures Free Blood Sugar, HbA1C, Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio, Cholesterol-Total, HDL, Non-HDL, LDL, VLDL, Triglycerides, and relevant ratios.

• Diagnosis and Monitoring of Diabetes: The panel helps diagnose diabetes and monitors its management by assessing blood sugar levels (Free Blood Sugar and HbA1C).
• Prevention of Short-Term Complications: Immediate insights into the levels of Diabetes Gold aid in preventing short-term complications like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
• Prevention of Long-Term Complications: Long-term complications of diabetes, such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, retinopathy, and kidney disease, can be minimized through effective management of blood sugar levels and associated risk factors.
• Individualized Treatment Plans: The results of the panel provide healthcare providers with comprehensive data to tailor individualized treatment plans.

The Diabetes Gold Panel is recommended for:

• Individuals with diabetes to monitor blood sugar control and assess associated cardiovascular and kidney risks.
• Those at risk of diabetes or with symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, and unexplained weight loss.
• Individuals on diabetes management plans to evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment.

Abnormal results may indicate the need for further evaluation and adjustments in diabetes management. Elevated cholesterol levels may suggest an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, while kidney function abnormalities may require specific interventions.

The panel involves a blood test, typically drawn from a vein. The procedure is routine and causes minimal discomfort.

No specific preparations are required. However, individuals should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider, especially regarding fasting before the blood test.

Additional tests that may be ordered include:

• Diabetes Platinum Panel: The Diabetes Platinum Panel serves as a comprehensive tool for both diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of diabetes. Its ability to assess various parameters related to blood sugar control, cardiovascular health, and kidney function makes it an invaluable asset in preventing and managing both short-term and long-term complications associated with diabetes.

• Comprehensive Diabetes Blood Panel
• Advanced Diabetes Profile

Hypoglycemia refers to a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, typically below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). It often occurs in individuals with diabetes who take medications that lower blood sugar levels, such as insulin or certain oral medications. However, it can also happen in people without diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, sweating, irritability, confusion, dizziness, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Prompt treatment involves consuming a fast-acting source of glucose, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets, to raise blood sugar levels.

Hyperglycemia is the opposite of hypoglycemia and refers to high blood sugar levels. In the context of diabetes, hyperglycemia occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (as in type 1 diabetes) or doesn't effectively use insulin (as in type 2 diabetes). Prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to various complications, including damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Managing hyperglycemia involves adjustments in medication, diet, and lifestyle to bring blood sugar levels within a target range.

Neuropathy is a term used to describe damage or dysfunction of the nerves, often associated with diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication that occurs due to prolonged exposure to high levels of blood sugar. It can affect nerves throughout the body, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness, usually starting in the extremities. Neuropathy can impact various types of nerves, including those involved in sensation (sensory neuropathy), movement (motor neuropathy), and internal organ function (autonomic neuropathy). Proper blood sugar control, along with medications and lifestyle changes, is essential in managing and preventing diabetic neuropathy.

Retinopathy is a diabetes-related complication that affects the eyes, particularly the retina—a layer at the back of the eye responsible for vision. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels. There are two main types: non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). NPDR is an early stage, while PDR is more advanced and can lead to vision loss. Symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, and difficulty seeing in low light. Regular eye examinations and good blood sugar control are crucial in preventing and managing diabetic retinopathy. Treatment options include laser therapy and, in advanced cases, surgery.