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LABORATORY MONITORING AND DIABETES

Living with diabetes requires daily self-care and monitoring to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It involves monitoring one’s diet, taking prescribed medications, regularly exercising, and monitoring blood sugar levels. It also requires regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor for any potential complications. While living with diabetes can be challenging, it is manageable with proper care and education. Support from family, friends, and a healthcare team can also make a significant difference in the management of the condition. The goal of living with diabetes is to maintain optimal health and prevent or delay the development of long-term complications.

Laboratory testing is an important component of diabetes management. It provides critical information about a patient’s glucose levels, kidney function, and overall health. Here is a brief overview of the key laboratory tests that are commonly used to monitor diabetes.

  1. Hemoglobin A1C test: This test measures the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. The result is expressed as a percentage and helps healthcare providers determine how well the patient is managing their diabetes.

  2. Fasting blood glucose test: This test measures the blood glucose level after an overnight fast. A high result may indicate uncontrolled diabetes or the development of prediabetes.

  3. Random blood glucose test: This test measures the blood glucose level at any time of the day, regardless of when the patient last ate. A high result may indicate uncontrolled diabetes or hypoglycemia.

  4. Kidney function tests: Diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys over time. Tests such as serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are used to monitor kidney function and assess the risk of kidney disease.

  5. Lipid profile: High levels of fat in the blood (cholesterol and triglycerides) can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. A lipid profile measures the levels of different types of fat in the blood and helps healthcare providers assess a patient’s cardiovascular risk.

  6. General Urine Analysis: People with diabetes are at increased risk of urinary tract infections. A general urine examination should be done regularly to check for any changes or problems.