Glucose tolerance test
About this test
The glucose tolerance test measures the body's response to sugar, also called glucose. Another name for this test is the oral glucose tolerance test. This test can be used to screen for type 2 diabetes or prediabetes before you have symptoms of either condition. Or it can help find out whether diabetes is causing existing symptoms. More often, a version of the test is used to check for diabetes that happens during pregnancy. That condition is called gestational diabetes.
Why it's done
The glucose tolerance test finds problems with the way the body handles sugar after a meal. As you eat, your body breaks down food into sugar. The sugar enters your blood, and the body uses the sugar for energy. But with prediabetes and diabetes, the sugar level in the blood becomes too high.
Risks and complications
The risks linked with having a blood sample taken are small. After your blood is taken, you may have bruising or bleeding. You also might feel dizzy or lightheaded. Rarely, an infection can happen after the procedure.
Understanding your results
Results of the glucose tolerance test are given in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.