Insulin is a natural hormone that controls glucose levels in the body. It promotes glucose uptake, glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen), lipogenesis (synthesis of fats), and protein synthesis.
The Insulin 2 Hrs (After 75 Grams Glucose) Lab Test checks the insulin levels 2 hours after the administration of glucose (sugar). An elevated insulin or glucose level means that you are at high risk or already have diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder characterized by raised blood glucose levels.
The test detects the amount of glucose in your blood, which may be normal or raised.
For the test, usually, the individual is asked to fast for about 8 hours before the blood sample is drawn. However, if fasting is not possible, the healthcare practitioner may perform the test anyway.
Similarly, in some cases, the individual may be asked to fast for longer than 8 hours.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild redness, pain, and irritation at the injection site. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- Can I have high insulin levels and not be diabetic?
It is possible to have high insulin levels but not be diabetic. However, in most cases. High insulin levels are associated with diabetes type 2.
- Are high blood glucose levels fatal?
High blood glucose levels are not usually fatal. However, if the blood glucose levels are poorly controlled or not controlled at all, they can possibly lead to death due to organ failure.
- What levels mean that I have diabetes?
A persistently high level of glucose accompanied by HbA1c levels greater than 6.5% most likely means that you have diabetes. Please consult your doctor for further information.
- Can I control my diabetes?
Type 2 and type 1 diabetes can both be controlled by the regular use of prescribed medicines and appropriate life changes.
The normal blood insulin levels are:
Fasting Insulin Levels: <25 mIU/L
Insulin levels 1 Hour after Glucose Administration: 30-230 mIU/L
Insulin levels 2 Hours after Glucose Administration: 16-166 mIU/L
Insulin levels after 3 or more Hours of Glucose Administration <25 mIU/L
Some abnormal conditions are mild with little effects, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is necessary for ruling out the causes of any abnormalities, which may be resolved within a few hours or, in some serious cases, last for years and require life-long treatment.
Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- For evaluating the amount of insulin production by the beta cells of the pancreas
- To help diagnose any pancreatic tumors
- To aid in determining the cause of hypoglycemia (low sugar levels) or hyperglycemia (elevated sugar levels)
- To determine and plan the course of therapy
Moreover, testing is necessary for the following causes:
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various allergies, infections, auto-immune disorders, cancers, metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate the effectiveness of given therapy
