Who knew that a simple, painless prick to your finger could be a lifesaver? With one quick glucose test, you can uncover the hidden risks of diabetes and get ahead of a condition that’s affecting millions.
Diabetes is a condition that occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) levels are too high.
Glucose is a primary source of energy for our bodies, and it comes from the food we eat. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose move from your bloodstream into your cells.
However, if your body doesn’t make enough insulin, or if it doesn’t use insulin effectively, glucose remains in your blood and can lead to health issues over time.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is when there’s too much sugar in your blood. Your body needs glucose (sugar) for energy, but insulin, the hormone that manages it, might be in short supply or not working well. This imbalance can lead to health problems if left unchecked.
Types of Diabetes and How to Spot Them
Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune condition. Usually diagnosed in young people, it happens when the body stops making insulin. Look out for sudden symptoms like extreme thirst, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
Type 2 Diabetes
The most common type. Here, the body doesn’t use insulin well, leading to gradual symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent trips to the loo, blurred vision and slow-healing sores.
Gestational Diabetes
Occurs during pregnancy. Often has no symptoms, so it’s best for expectant mums to get screened between 24-28 weeks.
What is a Glucose Test?
A glucose test is a quick way to check your blood sugar levels.
A glucose test at your pharmacy can give you an indication of whether you might have diabetes, but it’s not a definitive diagnosis. Pharmacies often use a finger-prick blood glucose test, which measures your blood sugar level at that moment. Here’s how it can help:
Screening: If your blood sugar is high, this can indicate potential diabetes or prediabetes, especially if you’re testing after fasting (not eating for 8-12 hours) or if it’s a random test that shows very high levels.
Follow-up: If your pharmacy test shows high blood sugar, it’s best to visit your doctor for further testing, such as an A1C test or an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), which provide more accurate and long-term indicators of blood sugar levels.
Tracking: For those who already know they have diabetes, pharmacy tests can be a convenient way to keep an eye on blood sugar between more comprehensive tests at your doctor’s office.
Simple Ways to Avoid Type 2 Diabetes
Healthy Eating: Opt for fibre, lean proteins and whole grains.
Regular Exercise: Aim for 150 minutes per week.
Weight Management: Even small weight loss helps.
Stay Hydrated: Water’s your best friend.
Routine Check-ups: Regular testing keeps you informed.
Members: Get a Glucose Test at Your Local Pharmacy Today!
GetSavvi Health members with Pharmacy Consultation access can now get a health test at their local pharmacist, including a glucose test.
If your blood sugar levels are elevated and you suspect you may have diabetes or prediabetes, it’s important to speak to your physician about possible treatment options.
Diabetes Resources
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes – The Difference
5 Diabetes Symptoms You Should Know
www.sweetlife.org.za
www.diabetessa.org.za