Diabetes Profile

Understanding Metabolic Pathway

With Diabetes Profile

Diabetes profile is a comprehensive set of tests and assessments that are carried out to diagnose, monitor, and manage diabetes mellitus; a chronic metabolic disorder that is generally characterised by elevated levels of sugar in the blood. The profile comprises a series of blood tests that provide valuable and insightful information about the glucose regulation, overall metabolic health, and potential complications related to diabetes in an individual. A diabetes profile aids in early detection, ongoing management, and adjusting treatment plans to achieve optimal glucose control to prevent any complications associated with diabetes.

Components of the Diabetes Profile:

Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG): 

This test measures the level of blood sugar level after an overnight fast and provides a baseline assessment of glucose control. This helps in diagnosis of diabetes and prediabetes. Normal fasting blood glucose levels are in the range of 70-99 mg/dl. Levels of FBG between 100-125 mg/dl can be indicative of prediabetes and levels above 126 mg/dl are indicative of diabetes.

Post Prandial Blood Glucose (PPBG): 

This test measures the levels of glucose in blood after 2 hours of meal consumption and offers an assessment of how the body processes glucose after a meal. A normal PPBG level typically is below 140 mg/dl two hours after a meal. For individuals with diabetes, the target level is set below 180 mg/dl to prevent complications and better manage the glucose control.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin):

 It is a critical blood test that provides vital information about the average blood glucose levels of an individual over the span of approximately two to three months. The normal range of HbA1c is typically below 5.7%. Higher levels can be indicative of prediabetes or diabetes.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): 

This test measures the ability of the body to handle glucose by measuring blood sugar levels before and after consuming a glucose-rich drink. The normal range of OGTT is a blood sugar level that is equal to or less than 140 mg/dl 1 hour after drinking the glucose drink.

Insulin and C-Peptide Levels: 

This test assesses the insulin production and sensitivity which is crucial for understanding the insulin response and tolerance of the body.

Lipid Profile: 

This test measures the level of cholesterol and triglycerides and provides a comprehensive assessment of the cardiovascular risk associated with diabetes.

Kidney Function Tests: 

A kidney function test panel is often performed to evaluate the overall health of kidney as diabetes can affect kidney function.

Liver Function Test: 

A liver function test panel offers a comprehensive assessment of the liver health as diabetes and diabetes medication can interfere with the function of liver.

Microalbuminuria Test: 

Measures the presence of albumin in urine, helping to detect early signs of kidney damage, a common complication of diabetes.

Thyroid Function Tests: 

Assesses thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4, TSH) as diabetes can affect thyroid function and vice versa.

BMI (Body Mass Index) Calculation: 

Evaluates weight in relation to height, providing insights into obesity, a risk factor for diabetes.

Blood Pressure Monitoring: 

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, as hypertension is common in individuals with diabetes and increases the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Procedure: 

●       Patients must schedule an appointment with their healthcare provider to discuss the need for diabetes profile.

●       Provide detailed medical history to aid in accurate assessment.

●       Patients might need to undergo physical examination including measurements of height, weight, blood pressure, and waist circumference.

●       Patients might need to fast 8-10 hours before the procedure.

●       Blood sample will be collected from the vein in the arms of the patient.

●       In some cases where patients need to undergo OGTT, a glucose-rich drink might be given to consume.

●       A blood sample will be collected after 2 hours of the consumption of glucose drink.

●    These blood samples are then analysed in the laboratory for various components such as lipids test, kidney function tests, liver function tests, and insulin level to assess the glucose metabolism and cardiovascular risk.

●       In some cases, urine sample might also be collected to check for the presence of albumin.

●       The healthcare provider will then assess the reports for regular and discuss with the patient regarding appropriate treatment options.

Reasons to Get a Diabetes Profile Done: 

●       If you have risk factors for diabetes such as obesity, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or sedentary lifestyle.

●       If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

●       For individuals with diabetes, regular diabetes profile can be helpful in monitoring glucose levels and evaluate effectiveness of current treatment.

●       If you have diabetes related complications, regular monitoring can help in determining the appropriate treatment option.

●       To get a better understanding of the metabolic health and overall health.

●       Helpful in tailoring your treatment plans and lifestyle recommendations to better manage diabetes.