Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG) and Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

To determine if someone has diabetes, health care providers conduct either a Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG) or an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). Although either test can be used to diagnose diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends the FPG since it is faster, easier and less expensive to perform.

A1C Test

After receiving a diagnosis of diabetes, your health care provider will administer an A1C test, which will provide a picture of your average blood glucose control for the past two to three months. The results will give you and your health care team an idea of how well your diabetes treatment plan is working. The amount of A1C in your blood reflects blood sugar control for the past 120 days, the lifespan of a red blood cell.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES

Symptoms for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes include an increase in thirst, increased appetite, frequent urination and unusual weight loss or gain. As blood sugar levels rise, symptoms include headaches, blurred vision and fatigue. Often, type 2 diabetes is not diagnosed until serious symptoms occur, including frequent infections, slow-healing cuts or sores, yeast infections and/or itchy skin.

DIABETES MEDICATIONS

Type 1 Diabetes- In a normal pancreas, beta cells make the hormone insulin. However, in Type 1 diabetics the pancreas no longer manufactures insulin. To control blood glucose levels, insulin must be injected into the fat layer under the skin to allow it to get into the bloodstream.

Type 2 Diabetes- Type 2 diabetics can usually keep their disease under control by using oral medications. However, if their blood glucose levels cannot be controlled with oral medications, diet and exercise, insulin may be used. All oral diabetes medications sold in the United States are members of five classes of drugs:

• Sulfonylureas
• Meglitinides
• Biguanides
• Thiazolidinediones
• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors

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