Type 2 Diabetes Guide

Diagnosing Diabetes - Testing for Type 2 Diabetes

The incidence of is on the increase. can be done by your family doctor, who will discuss your personal and family history, possible symptoms, and your risk factors. Your doctor may then order a diabetes test.

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Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Family History

  • plays a strong role in your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is believed that the closer the family link, the higher the risk. For example, if you have a sibling (brother or sister) with diabetes, your risk is strongest. The next highest risk is a parent with diabetes, then a grandparent with diabetes, etc.

Lifestyle Risk Factors

  • is a strong risk factor. Even being overweight leads to , a pre-cursor to the development of diabetes.

  • Lack of exercise / sedentary lifestyle.

  • Poor diet, which can lead to weight gain.

Additional Risk Factors

  • Age. People over 50 are at increased risk.

  • Ethnicity. Some groups appear to be at higher risk, including Asian Americans, African Americans, Native Americans, Latin / Hispanic, and Pacific Islanders.

  • Having had gestational diabetes.

  • , cholesterol, or triglycerides.

Diabetes Testing

Your doctor may order one or more of these tests:

  • Fasting blood glucose - your blood glucose levels are measured after you fast (don't eat) for a minimum of 8 hours up to a maximum of 12 hours. A normal blood glucose range is from 70 mg/dl to 100 mg/dl; pre-diabetic range is considered from 101 mg/dl to 125 mg/dl; and diabetic is 126 mg/dl and above.

  • Oral glucose tolerance - you are given a sugary drink to consume. Your blood glucose levels are measured 5 times over 3 hours. In people without diabetes, blood sugar levels will rise after consuming the drink, but will quickly decrease back to . In diabetics, blood sugar levels will rise and take longer to decrease.

  • Random blood sugar test - blood glucose levels are tested randomly throughout the day, regardless of when you last ate. In people without diabetes, blood sugar doesn't vary that widely during the day. Generally, blood sugar should not rise above 200 mg/dl. Blood sugar between 140 mg/dl and 200 mg/dl may indicate .

There is no such thing as a "mild" form of diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that needs to be carefully managed to maintain good health. Thus, diagnosing diabetes is an important step for those who may be at risk. See your doctor immediately if you have risk factors - you may be able to , delay it, or even prevent the onset of the disease.

 

 

The information on this website is based on our own research and personal experience, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your health and individual situation should be directed to your doctor.