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4 Tests to Detect Diabetes Early

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  Diabetes is a chronic illness characterised by the body's inability to regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels effectively. This can occur when the body doesn't produce enough insulin or when the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to elevated glucose in the bloodstream. The high levels of blood sugar in the body can lead to numerous health problems that affect the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart of a person. One can take tests like random blood sugar, glucose challenge, and HbA1C tests at an affordable price to help determine if a person has diabetes (type 1 or 2) or is on the verge of it. HbA1C Test One of the most common tests to diagnose the blood sugar levels of an individual is the HbA1C test. Also called glycated haemoglobin or haemoglobin A1C test, it measures the glucose levels attached to the haemoglobin. The test evaluates the average blood sugar levels over 3 months through a blood sample. A person with consistent high blood sugar levels might have typ...

A Brief Introduction to CBC Test: Meaning, Purpose, and Procedure

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A complete blood count (CBC) test is a common blood test to measure and analyse an individual's health. A CBC test is part of a full-body health check-up by trusted medical laboratories. It provides proper information about various blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, haemoglobin, and haematocrit. The doctor prescribes this test for several reasons, such as the detection of conditions, disorders, and infections. Top medical laboratories conduct CBC blood tests at an affordable cost . Why is a CBC Test Required? The CBC test is required to check an individual's overall health and well-being. If one has symptoms like fever, fatigue, bleeding, or weakness, the doctor may order a CBC test. It tells the doctor about the level of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and other blood components. The medical professional analyses the blood components to check for infections or diseases. Along with this, CBC test results can also help d...

A Comprehensive Look at the Double Marker Test During Pregnancy

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Double marker test is a prenatal test recommended for women during pregnancy. The test checks for any genetic disorder or risk for certain birth defects in the unborn child.  A double marker test in pregnancy , is conducted during the first trimester and analyses two specific substances for chromosomal abnormalities.  Women over the age of 35 and having a history of birth defects should consider getting a dual marker test. Levels of substances can help identify the risk of certain birth defects, like Down syndrome. Types of Pregnancy Hormones Measured A double marker test includes a blood sample and an ultrasound. The blood sample is taken to look for two hormones—the free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). An ultrasound called a nuchal translucency (NT) scan, examining the clear tissue at the back of the baby’s neck.  Timing of Tests  There is a relatively slim window for conducting the dual marker test. ...

Effective Strategies for Blood Sugar Control in Diabetes

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Diabetes affects a large number of people in the world. The condition not only challenges the body’s response to insulin but also impacts our day-to-day life. It is also linked to various health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy, skin and mouth conditions and other autoimmune diseases. And keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels is important to manage the condition and delay further health issues. There are multiple ways of managing blood sugar in diabetes, among which choosing to eat a healthy meal, physical activity and practising a stress-free life can make a huge difference. Monitoring blood sugar levels with CGM or conducting independent lab tests such as a low priced HbA1c test from a reputable healthcare facility can help with diabetes management. Focus on a Healthy Diet Our body converts carbs into sugar. This glucose is then absorbed into the bloodstream with the help of insulin and helps maintain blood sugar levels to a ...

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Normal Range and Symptoms

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A blood glucose test is a blood test that screens for diabetes by measuring the level of sugar in the blood. You would need a blood sugar test if your healthcare provider has ordered routine bloodwork and your full body health checkup , which might include a glucose blood test. Other reasons include having symptoms of high or low blood sugar levels, which could indicate diabetes.  The most common use of blood sugar tests is to screen for type 2 diabetes, a common disease. It is important to monitor the blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you have the risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight or having a family history of the disease. Let’s look at what the normal glucose level is and what high and low glucose levels mean. What is a Normal Glucose Level? A healthy blood glucose level with fasting is 70 to 99 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L). A healthcare professional may provide a diagnosis of prediabetes if you have the following test results:  Fasting: 100 to 125 m...

Understanding Vitamin D Test: Importance, Process, and Key Insights

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A vitamin D test measures the level of vitamin D in the blood. If a person has a vitamin D deficiency, it can lead to bone disorders and other medical conditions. If your doctor believes that you have a bone or health condition—which can be brought on by extremely low vitamin D levels—the test should be performed during your complete physical examination.  It is also important to consider the full body checkup price when planning regular health assessments. Vitamin D deficiency is a common global issue, and around 1 billion people worldwide have it.  The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, muscle aches, or mood changes. Let's delve into the necessity of a vitamin D test, the process of conducting it, and the implications of the result. Why Is Vitamin D Test Conducted?  A healthcare professional may order a vitamin D test if the person shows symptoms such as bone pain, muscle weakness or aches, soft or deformed bones, weak bones, ...

How Routine Check-Ups Are Essential for Your Well-Being

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Routine check-ups are essential in maintaining the body’s wellness and health. A whole body check up typically involves a combination of physical diagnosis, blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs), health screenings, and laboratory tests like lipid profile, urine analysis, kidney function test (KFT), and more.  These assessments give a holistic outline of an individual’s health condition and help determine possible issues requiring early intervention or treatment.  Physical Diagnosis A physical test often involves a compressive inspection of the body to judge overall health. It includes checking vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Following this, the healthcare provider may examine different body parts, evaluating abnormalities or sensitivity.  Breathing and reflex tests are also conducted to inspect lung function and the nervous system. Plus, the provider palpates eyes, skin, throat, ears, and abdomen to check for any signs...