Blood Sugar Testing Specialist

Northeast Medical, PC -  - Family Medicine

Northeast Medical, PC

Family Medicine & Primary Care Practice located in Amherst, NY & Cheektowaga, NY

Blood sugar testing helps confirm a diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes and, if you have a diabetic condition, evaluates how well your glucose levels are being managed. At Northeast Medical, PC in Amherst and Cheektowaga, New York, Tajinderpal Singh, MD, and his skilled team provide blood sugar testing to help you maintain optimal health. Call today or book online to schedule your appointment for diabetic management support or a general evaluation of your blood sugar.

Blood Sugar Testing Q & A

Why is blood sugar testing important?

Blood sugar testing in-office and at home is a critical part of diabetes management. It helps you:

  • Monitor the effects of the medications you’re taking
  • Track your progress in terms of treatment goals
  • Identify if levels are too high or too low
  • Learn how your dieting and exercise habits affect blood sugar levels
  • Understand how illness, stress, and other factors affect blood sugar levels

The team at Northeast Medical, PC uses information from blood sugar testing to tweak your treatment plan and help you take control of your diabetes.

What is an A1C lab test?

The A1C lab test shows how well you’re controlling your blood sugar levels over time. Usually performed every 2-3 months, the test measures your average blood sugar level over that period.

An A1C result of 5.7% is normal, readings of 5.7%-6.4% indicate prediabetes, and readings of 6.5% or higher indicate diabetes. When you have high A1C levels, you’re at greater risk of diabetic complications.

What is a fasting blood sugar test?

Your provider may order a fasting blood sugar test that measures your glucose levels after a night of not eating. Usually, a result of 99 mg/dL or lower is normal. A result of 100-125 mg/dL suggests prediabetes, and a reading of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

A fasting blood sugar test is often a standard screening done as part of an annual exam.

What is a glucose tolerance test?

Glucose tolerance tests measure your blood sugar before and after consumption of a drink containing sugar, or glucose. Your fasting blood sugar level is first measured and then you drink the prescribed liquid. 

Your blood sugar levels are checked again 1-3 hours later to determine the effects of glucose on your system and your body’s ability to process it. A measurement of 140 mg/dL or lower is normal, 140-199 mg/dL indicates prediabetes, and 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

If your doctor suspects you have Type 1 diabetes, he may order a blood antibody test to check for specific substances that indicate your body is attacking itself. You may also have your urine tested for ketones, a byproduct produced by your kidneys when your body burns fat for energy.

If you suspect you have diabetes or need regular glucose management, call Northeast Medical, PC to set up your appointment or book online today.