how diabetes is diagnosed

Diabetes is typically diagnosed through several blood tests that measure blood glucose levels. The most common tests include:

• A1C Test: Measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. Results are given as a percentage:

  • Normal: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or above

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.

  • Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: 100 to 125 mg/dL
  • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and 2 hours after drinking a sugary drink.

  • Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: 140 to 199 mg/dL
  • Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

• Random Plasma Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar at any time, regardless of when you last ate.

  • Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher (with symptoms like increased thirst, urination, and fatigue)

If you have symptoms of diabetes, your doctor may use one or more of these tests to confirm a diagnosis. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and management.