Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health problems in the world today. This disease cannot be controlled only with the help of medicines, but it is also very important to check blood sugar regularly and at the right time. The test done at the right time tells the actual status of glucose level in the body, so that the doctor can make a better treatment plan. If testing is not done at the right time, the report may not reflect the actual condition and treatment may be affected.
When to get fasting blood sugar test done?
Fasting blood sugar test is done in the morning on an empty stomach. For this, fasting of at least 8 to 10 hours is necessary. This test tells how much glucose level remains in the body without food overnight. This test is considered most important for early detection of diabetes and to know the effectiveness of treatment.
Blood sugar test 2 hours after meals
A blood sugar test done about two hours after eating a meal tells us how well the body is controlling the glucose it gets from food. If blood sugar remains higher than normal at this time, it may be a sign of decreased insulin efficiency or problem in diabetes control. Doctors often decide treatment based on both fasting and post-prandial reports.
Importance of Random Blood Sugar and HbA1c Test
Random blood sugar test can be done at any time of the day. This is done on the advice of a doctor in special circumstances, especially when the patient is showing symptoms of diabetes. Whereas, HbA1c test gives information about the average blood sugar level of the last 2 to 3 months. This test helps to understand how well blood sugar has been controlled over a long period of time and how effective the treatment is.
Easy ways to keep blood sugar under control
To control diabetes, it is very important to take a balanced and nutritious diet. Include whole grains, green vegetables, pulses, proteins and limited amounts of fruits in your diet. Avoid sweet drinks, excess sugar and processed foods. Along with this, brisk walking, yoga, cycling or other physical activities for at least 30 minutes daily helps in increasing insulin sensitivity. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for blood sugar control.
Pay attention to stress, sleep and regular checkups
Chronic stress and lack of adequate sleep can affect blood sugar. Therefore, take good sleep of 7 to 8 hours daily and practice yoga, meditation or pranayam to reduce stress. Take the medicines prescribed by the doctor on time and keep getting your blood sugar checked at prescribed intervals. Do not change medication without medical advice.
Do not ignore these symptoms at all
If symptoms like frequent thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, sudden weight loss or delayed wound healing occur, contact a doctor immediately. By timely testing and adopting the right lifestyle, diabetes can be effectively controlled and its serious side effects can be avoided.