Why do you need a fasting blood glucose test? A fasting blood glucose test is a common blood test that is recommended by doctors to screen for diabetes, pre diabetes or gestational diabetes. It measures the amount of sugar in your blood early in the morning, when it should be at its lowest. Let us know more about this test and where you can get tested. Why do you need a blood glucose test? Your healthcare provider may recommend a fasting blood sugar test as part of your routine health checkup. Other than that, it is also suggested in these cases: 1. You are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes with : • You are over 35 years old. • Have had a family history of diabetes • Diagnosed with high blood pressure or heart disease • If you are overweight or have obesity • Are less physically active • Have had gestational diabetes 2. You are experiencing symptoms of low or high glucose levels, including : • High blood sugar level signs • Blurred vision • Fatigue • Unexpected weight loss • Feeling numbness or tingling in your feet or hands • Frequent urge to pee • Increased thirst 3. Low blood sugar level signs • Hungry • Fatigue • Headache • Fast heartbeat • Having trouble speaking clearly • Feeling shaky 4. You have diabetes or pre diabetes 5. To check for gestational diabetes 6. You are on medications that may affect blood glucose levels. Preparations To get tested for the fasting blood glucose test, you need to fast at least for 8-12 hours; an overnight fast is preferred. You are allowed only to drink plain water during the fasting period. It is suggested to wear loose clothes to allow access to the healthcare provider for an effortless blood sample collection. What do the test results indicate? • Normal fasting blood sugar levels • The prediabetic range is when your blood sugar level is higher than normal but not enough to be classified as diabetes. • High blood sugar levels In case of abnormal results, what are the next steps? If a high fasting blood sugar level is detected, your healthcare provider may repeat the test to ensure the treatment can be planned as early as possible. However, if the results reveal that you are prediabetic, your doctor will suggest medical intervention and changes to your eating and physical activities, along with retesting at a later time to manage the diabetes risk. Other than that, if you have any questions left, you can share them with your healthcare provider. To get tested, if you are looking for the fasting glucose test near me , connect to the diagnostic centre that works with the latest technology, healthcare experts, the newest medical equipment and is near your location. FAQs 1. What is a fasting blood sugar test? A fasting blood sugar test measures the level of glucose in your blood after not eating or drinking anything except water for at least 8 hours. 2. How many hours should I fast before the test? You generally need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test. You can drink plain water during this period. 3. Can I drink water before a fasting blood sugar test? Yes, you can drink plain water while fasting. Avoid tea, coffee, juice and other beverages until your blood sample is collected.