When would I need a blood glucose test?

There are three main reasons why you may need a blood glucose (sugar) test:

• Your healthcare provider may have ordered routine bloodwork called a basic metabolic panel (BMP) or a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), which both include a glucose blood test.
• You may be having symptoms of high blood sugar or low blood sugar, which could indicate diabetes or another condition.
• If you take a long-term medication that affects your blood sugar levels, such as corticosteroids, you may need routine glucose blood tests to monitor your levels.

The most common use of a blood glucose test is to screen for Type 2 diabetes (T2D), which is a common condition. Certain people are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. If you have risk factors, your provider will likely recommend regular screening no matter your age. The American Diabetes Association recommends regular screening for anyone age 35 or older.

Your provider will also order a blood glucose test if you have symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Symptoms of diabetes and high blood sugar include:

• Feeling very thirsty (polydipsia).
• Frequent urination (polyuria).
• Fatigue.
• Feeling very hungry (polyphagia).
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Blurred vision.
• Slow healing of cuts or sores.

If you or your child have these symptoms in addition to vomiting, deep labored breathing and/or confusion, go to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. You may have diabetes-related ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening condition.

Symptoms of low blood sugar include:

• Shaking or trembling.
• Sweating and chills.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Faster heart rate.
• Intense hunger.
• Anxiousness or irritability.

You need to consume carbohydrates (sugar) to treat hypoglycemia, such as a banana or apple juice. Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.