Type 1 Diabetes: Diagnosis and Management

Blood Tests for Diabetes Diagnosis and Management
Part of living with diabetes is living with blood tests – and lots of them. From diagnosis through daily self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), you'll be poked and punctured frequently for analysis of blood glucose levels and much more. Your blood test results can be a wonderful tool for you as you work to achieve better control of your diabetes. That's why it's important to educate yourself on exactly what these blood tests are, why they are administered, and what the results mean to you.

Please note that many of the blood tests described below require specific preparation for optimum performance, such as a special diet or the suspension of certain medications. To get the most accurate results, be sure to closely follow the instructions of your healthcare provider before taking any diagnostic test. This list is not all-inclusive, and other blood tests may be prescribed based on your specific medical history.

Select a test to learn more about it:

Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, MD. 4/08