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20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL

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Diabetes Testing

The best and only way to determine if one has diabetes is through blood tests that measure blood glucose or sugar levels in the body. At Southkenmd.co.uk Clinic, our GPs can perform various tests to confirm diabetes diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment.

Understanding Diabetes

There are two prevalent kinds of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.

  • Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune and genetic condition where the body’s immune system strikes and destroys the pancreas’s insulin-producing beta cells. It usually occurs in kids, teenagers, and young adults, though it can also develop at any age.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Also referred to as adult-onset diabetes, this occurs when the body ceases to use insulin effectively, leading to raised blood glucose levels over time. Type 2 diabetes is highly preventable with lifestyle modifications.

These two diabetes types impact how the body utilizes sugar (glucose) for its energy. The common symptoms are increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss.

Diabetes Testing and Diagnosis

The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes normally appear suddenly, prompting blood sugar level testing. However, symptoms of Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes develop more gradually or might go unnoticed. To address this, our clinic has established screening guidelines for:

  • Individuals with a BMI over 25, irrespective of age, who have additional risk factors, such as:
  • High blood pressure
  • Abnormal cholesterol levels
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • History of heart disease or (PCOS) polycystic ovary syndrome
  • A close family member with diabetes
  • Anyone over 35 years old.
  • Women with a history of gestational diabetes.
  • People diagnosed with prediabetes.
  • Individuals with HIV.

Types of Diabetes Tests

A1C test:

This blood test does not require fasting. It measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months through the analysis of the fraction of blood sugar attached to haemoglobin. The results could be categorized as follows:

  • 5% or higher (on two tests): Diabetes
  • 7% to 6.4%: Prediabetes
  • Below 5.7%: Normal

Random blood sugar test:

With this test, a blood sample is taken at any time. A level of 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) or above indicates diabetes.

Fasting blood sugar test:

Performed after fasting overnight and the results can be presented as:

  • Below 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L): Normal
  • 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L): Prediabetes
  • 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) or more (on 2 distinct tests): Diabetes

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Glucose tolerance test:

After fasting overnight, a blood sugar measurement is taken. You will then take a sugary fluid, and blood sugar is tested over two hours:

  • Below 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L): Normal
  • 140–199 mg/dL (7.8–11.0 mmol/L): Prediabetes
  • 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) or higher: Diabetes

Additional tests for Type 1 Diabetes:

  • Urine test for ketones: Checks for ketones, a byproduct of fat and muscle breakdown.

Autoantibody testing: Identifies immune system cells that attack insulin-producing beta cells.

Gestational Diabetes Screening

If you have an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, screening may be done at your first prenatal visit. However, testing is typically performed during the second trimester for those at average risk.

What Next?

Being diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes can be shocking, and everyone responds differently to receiving this news. It’s normal to feel unsure about how to deal with or what to do next. However, with proper treatment and support, you will manage diabetes effectively and live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Generally, it can be hard to process everything at once. Therefore, you should consider bringing a family member or friend to your appointments with the healthcare team. They can help you take notes of concerns you might have.

When visiting our clinic, your GP will likely begin by discussing treatment options and steps to help manage diabetes effectively. This often includes reviewing your lifestyle behaviors, such as diet and nutrition, physical activity and exercise, smoking habits, and alcohol consumption.

Understanding these aspects of your lifestyle will help your healthcare team develop a personalized plan to manage your diabetes and support your long-term health. If necessary, we can also give you a referral to diabetes self-management education and support services to help you understand and manage your condition.

We are open

Monday to Thursday 9am to 6pm

Friday 8am to 5pm

Saturday & Sunday by Appointment Only

Call Us

020 7183 2362

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Address

20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL