Diabetes is on the rise in the UK, with more people than ever diagnosed with it each year. It’s estimated that over 5 million people are currently living with diabetes and up to 850,000 of them may not even know it.
The only way to diagnose diabetes is through a blood test that measures your blood sugar (glucose) levels. Getting an accurate diagnosis through blood work is essential for diabetics to effectively manage their condition. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious, life-changing health complications and even death.
If you suspect you have diabetes or are worried you’re at risk, you can easily arrange private diabetes blood tests in Camberley and Bromley from Touchwood Pharmacy.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes
Around 90% of diabetes cases are diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a serious, potentially life-long condition that occurs when your pancreas can’t produce enough insulin and/or it produces ineffective insulin. Insulin helps keep your blood glucose levels stay at a safe level, but if your pancreas can’t keep up your blood sugar levels will rise.
Persistent high levels of blood sugar can lead to permanent damage to several parts of your body like the eyes, nerves, blood vessels, and kidneys. Your oral health, hearing, and vision can also be irreversibly affected.
The reason many people are unknowingly living with diabetes is because they aren’t experiencing any noticeable symptoms. Symptoms also tend to develop gradually over the course of several months or years, making them more difficult to notice.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
- Frequent urination
- Extreme tiredness
- Unexpected weight loss
- Blurry vision
- Frequent yeast infections
- Excessive thirst
- Slow healing wounds
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Testing for Diabetes
There are a few different blood tests used for diagnosis diabetes, including: Fasting Glucose, AIC, and Oral Glucose Tolerance tests.
- Fasting Glucose: This is a common blood test used to screen for diabetes, gestational (pregnancy related) diabetes, and prediabetes. You should refrain from eating or drinking anything for 8-12 hours before the test.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: The OGTT test is used to detect diabetes mellitus and for insulin resistance. Under supervision, a patient’s blood sugar levels are monitored after they’ve been given a sugary drink. is given a glucose drink
- HbA1c: Also known as an A1C test, this is the main blood test used to diagnose diabetes. Numerous readings of your blood sugar levels are taken over the span of several months.
Fast and reliable private diabetes blood tests can be arranged at Touchwood Pharmacy. If you are worried you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it, contact us to book an appointment for private diabetes blood tests in Northampton and Walsall.
