"Glucose" is the primary source of energy for animal and human cells. It is one of the kinds of the sugar that travels in our bloodstream. Glucose enters to our body whenever we eat foods that include carbohydrate. The level of glucose is regulated by glucagon and insulin. It is a hormone produced by pancreas. This hormone is then released into the blood whenever the sugar value rises.

Normal level of blood glucose stays between 70 to 150 mg. These levels are comparatively lower in the morning but rise after meals. If the blood sugar levels are consistently above 150 mg/dl then the condition is termed hyperglycemia. Severe low levels that fall even below 70 mg/dl are termed hypoglycemia. The symptoms of hypoglycemia are

• Lethargy
• Irritability
• Loss of consciousness
• Impaired mental functioning

Persistent high-level of glucose in blood results in Diabetes Mellitus. It is a common ailment that is linked to the failure of blood sugar regulation. Uncontrolled diabetes may result in kidney, nerve or eye damage.

A blood sugar test is required to measure the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. There are different types of test that are performed for the diagnosis, treatment and management of diabetes.

Fasting blood sugar test checks the level of glucose after the fasting of 8 hours. It is generally the first recommended test for the diagnosis of diabetes. The levels of blood glucose level 70mg/dl to 99mg/dl are regarded as non-diabetic.

Random Blood Glucose Test is done after two hours of eating the meal. The level here should fall between 70 mg/dl and 125 mg/dl.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test determines the degree of the disease. This test is performed after giving the patient a glucose drink.

If the blood sugar readings are not in the desired range then you must start taking action right now.