What Is a Positive Blood Test for Diabetes? - Daily Trust (2025)

Types of Blood Tests for Diabetes

There are several tests that doctors use to determine if someone has diabetes. Each one measures blood sugar in a specific way, and a positive result may vary depending on the test.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The fasting blood sugar test is one of the most common tests for diagnosing diabetes. It requires fasting (no food or drink, except water) for at least eight hours before the test.

• Normal Range: Less than 99 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL (indicates a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes)
• Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests confirms diabetes

This test is straightforward and widely used as a first step in diagnosing diabetes.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

The OGTT evaluates how well your body processes sugar. It’s often used to diagnose gestational diabetes in pregnant women but is also helpful in other cases.

• You fast for at least eight hours before the test.
• A sugary liquid is consumed during the test.
• Blood sugar levels are checked two hours after drinking the liquid.

Interpretation of Results:

• Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 140–199 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

This test provides a detailed look at how your body handles glucose after a meal or sugary drink.

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test

The HbA1c test reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It’s a valuable tool for diagnosing diabetes and monitoring long-term blood sugar control.

• Normal: Less than 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

For those already diagnosed with diabetes, the goal is often to keep the HbA1c level below 7%. This test is effective because it gives a bigger picture of blood sugar trends, not just a snapshot.

Factors That Can Affect Test Results

While these tests are reliable, certain factors can influence results:

• Illness: Being unwell can temporarily raise blood sugar levels.
• Activity Levels: Recent physical activity can lower blood sugar readings.
• Medications: Some medications, like steroids, can affect blood sugar levels.

It’s important to inform your doctor about any conditions or medications before testing to ensure accurate results.

Why You Might Need Testing

Blood sugar testing is typically recommended if you experience symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing cuts or wounds

Even without symptoms, testing may be advised if you:

• Have a family history of diabetes.
• Are overweight or have a sedentary lifestyle.
• Are over 45 years old.
• Have high blood pressure or cholesterol.
• Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

What Happens After a Positive Test?

If your blood test confirms diabetes, your doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Here’s what that usually involves:

Lifestyle Changes

• Adopting a healthy diet focused on low-glycemic foods, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
• Incorporating regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, to help lower blood sugar levels.
• Monitoring portion sizes and carbohydrate intake to stabilize glucose levels.

Medications

• Type 1 diabetes typically requires insulin therapy.
• Type 2 diabetes may be managed with oral medications, insulin, or other injectable drugs.

Blood Sugar Monitoring

• Regularly checking your blood sugar levels helps you stay on track and identify patterns. Your doctor may recommend a glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for convenience.

Ongoing Medical Care

• Routine checkups are crucial to monitor your progress, adjust treatments, and prevent complications. Your care team may include an endocrinologist, dietitian, and diabetes educator.

Take Control of Your Health

Understanding what a positive blood test means is the first step in taking charge of your health. Regular testing and early detection can help prevent complications and ensure you stay on top of your condition.

If you or someone you know has extra diabetic test strips or supplies that are no longer needed, consider selling them for cash to Diabetics Trust. We buy unused diabetic test strips and supplies, helping you turn those extras into money while supporting others who need access to affordable supplies.

For more healthy tips and ways to manage diabetes effectively, visit Health Horizon Hub