Fasting Blood Sugar (RBS) Test Booking, Procedure [2022-23]
Dr. AbhistitaLast Updated on 18th January 2022Table of contents
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What is the FBS test used for?
The fasting blood sugar (FBS) test measures blood glucose levels after a fasting period of at least 8 hours. This is usually the first test advised when checking for pre-diabetic conditions and diabetes. The doctor may advise this test to:
- monitor blood glucose levels in a fasting state
- diagnose diabetes
- screen for pre-diabetic condition in high-risk individuals
What is included in the FBS test?
The fasting blood sugar test measures the blood glucose levels after a specific fasting period. By doing this, the healthcare physician will evaluate the body’s response to insulin.
The blood glucose levels fluctuate when the body cannot generate enough insulin (the blood sugar-lowering agent) or is unable to respond to the production of insulin.
Procedure for FBS test
It is recommended to wear a loose, short-sleeved t-shirt or top to make the sample collection easy.
- A certified lab technician will tighten a band to locate the vein
- After cleaning the area, blood will be collected using a sterile syringe and stored in a test tube
- The band is loosened after blood collection
- The injection site is cleaned and covered with cotton or a small bandage to stop the bleeding
You may feel slight discomfort and stinging when the needle is removed after collecting the blood sample. The blood sample will be analyzed in our lab equipped with state-of-the-art technology and results will be available on the MFine app within 48 hours after blood sample collection.
How to prepare for the FBS test?
This test requires a fast of 8 – 12 hours. You may drink water as usual. You may need to inform your doctor about your past medical history and current prescriptions if any.
Things to consider after the FBS test is complete
The FBS test evaluates blood glucose levels in the fasting condition.This is an initial test to help diagnose diabetes and also helps in monitoring high or low blood sugar levels in those already diagnosed with diabetes.
Your blood glucose levels can vary depending on the kind of food you eat, the amount of physical activity, stress levels, and medication. The aim is to try and maintain the normal blood glucose range to prevent diabetes and other health conditions.
The FBS test results will determine how the body processes sugar and breaks it down to produce energy. In case of abnormal test results during the fasting blood glucose test, the doctor may advise more extensive tests like HbA1c test, random blood glucose, Post prandial blood glucose test, etc. to get a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Please consult a medical professional to interpret the test results and avoid self-diagnosis.
What types of conditions can the FBS test detect?
An FBS test can help detect conditions like:
- Diabetes-all types
- Pancreas related disorders
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Sepsis
- Preeclampsia
- Hypoglycemia
- Hypopituitarism
- Liver disease
- Malabsorption syndrome
How much does the FBS test cost?
*Disclaimer: The fasting blood glucose test costs can vary based on cities and the preferred lab partners, but the starting price is between Rs. 85 to Rs. 160.
City | Cost |
Bangalore | Rs. 95 |
Mumbai | Rs. 115 |
Delhi | Rs. 90 |
Kolkata | Rs. 100 |
Chennai | Rs. 88 |
Hyderabad | Rs. 105 |
Pune | Rs. 100 |
How long does it take to get the results for the FBS test?
You can expect to get the results for the FBS test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample has been collected for analysis.
What do abnormal FBS test results indicate?
By measuring fasting blood glucose levels based on how high the levels are, it can help to diagnose some health conditions as well as help understand the severity of certain diseases.
- High fasting blood glucose levels are found in:
- Diabetes all types
- Pancreas related disorders
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Sepsis
- Preeclampsia
When the blood sugar levels increase, the condition is known as hyperglycemia. The blood sugar levels in the body rise when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to break down the sugar or when the body is unable to utilise the insulin properly.
Some symptoms of high blood glucose levels include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Increased hunger
- Blurriness of vision
- Unintentional weight loss
- Frequent headaches
- Trouble concentrating
- Frequent infections
- Slower healing of wounds
If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to a condition called ketoacidosis diabetic coma, where the body starts breaking down body fats to produce energy. This leads to increased production of ketones, which will begin building up in the blood, causing further complications.
When the blood glucose levels fall below the normal range, the condition is called hypoglycemia. If the blood sugar levels drop below the normal range for a long time, the body is triggered to produce the ‘fight-or-flight’ hormone, adrenaline. This is what causes the blood sugar levels to drop even further.
In the case of low blood glucose levels, a few common symptoms include:
- Excess sweating
- Light-headedness
- Shivering
- Nausea
- Dryness of the mouth
- Anxiety and palpitations
- Drowsiness
- Unsteadiness
- Loss of consciousness
- Fits
If hypoglycemia is left untreated, the brain stops receiving glucose, and it can lead to severe complications like numbness, slurred speech, seizures, and even coma.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor to interpret the test reports.
Is the FBS test a definitive test?
This is not a definitive test. In case the blood sugar levels are higher than normal, other extensive blood reports for diabetes like postprandial blood sugar test, HbA1c test, random blood glucose test may also be recommended. Other tests may include an autoantibodies blood test, fasting insulin levels, and the ketone urine test.
How to read the FBS report?
Blood Glucose Range | Diagnosis |
< 70 mg/dL | Hypoglycemia |
70-99 mg/dL | Normal Range |
100-125 mg/dL | Prediabetes |
> 126 mg/dL | Diabetes |
The normal range is just a guide. To provide an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will consider factors like age, other health conditions, lifestyle, etc., and blood test results. Please consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Why book the FBS test?
- To identify whether your blood sugar levels are high or low
- To monitor the progress of a diabetic treatment plan
- To have regular checks on how the diabetes medication is affecting blood sugar levels
- To understand how changes to food and physical activity can regulate blood sugar levels
- To understand the underlying cause of fluctuations in the blood glucose levels due to stress, nutrition, lifestyle, and other health issues
FBS test at home – how does it work?
The fasting glucose test is a simple blood test.
- Book an FBS test in your city with the MFine app.
- Select your preferred lab partner and enter the address you need the sample collection from.
- Book a convenient sample collection slot and a certified lab technician will be assigned to collect the sample for the test
- Before the blood collection, an elastic or velcro band will be placed on the upper arm to apply pressure, the injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic, and the blood sample will be collected using a sterile syringe and stored in a test tube
- The blood sample will then be carefully stored in a case and taken to the lab for analysis. The band will be loosened, the injection site cleaned, and covered with cotton or a small bandage to stop the bleeding
- The test sample will be analyzed by a certified lab technician
- Once the test analysis is complete, the report can be downloaded from the MFine.
- Avail of online consultation with any of the senior doctors to interpret the results correctly
- The doctor will provide medical advice and a treatment plan based on the test reports
Are there any risks involved with the FBS test?
There are no particular risks with a fasting blood sugar test. There may be slight discomfort and pain at the injection site from where the blood was drawn. But this should go away soon.
What can affect the results of the FBS test?
The fasting blood glucose test results are affected by the portion of the last meal eaten, what the meal contained and how the body produces and responds to insulin. Medication, physical activities, diet, stress levels, and other health conditions can also affect FBS results.
For further assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the lab technician coming for FBS sample collection vaccinated?
Yes, MFine provides the interpretation of your test results. You can also avail of a free medical consultation with a doctor to better understand your test results.
Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?
Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.
How can I download my FBS test report?
- Login to the MFine app
- Go to your profile
- Click on Attachment and Reports
- Click on Lab Report
- Download the report
Are there any discount offers running on the FBS test?
Usually, you can avail of up to 50% discount on FBS through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.
What is hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels are higher than normal. When blood sugar levels are higher than usual for a long time and left unattended, it can lead to various health problems in the future.
What is hypoglycemia?
When the blood glucose levels are lower than the normal range, the condition is referred to as hypoglycemia. If the blood sugar levels drop below the normal range for a long time, the body is triggered to produce the ‘fight-or-flight’ hormone, adrenaline. This is what causes the blood sugar levels to drop even further, leading to more health complications.
If my FBS results are abnormal, will I need to undergo other tests?
If your FBS test results are abnormal, your doctor will prescribe additional tests such as postprandial blood sugar test, HbA1c test, Random blood glucose, fasting insulin levels test, etc.
How do I keep my blood glucose levels from rising?
You can maintain healthy blood sugar levels by incorporating a healthy diet and physical activity into your daily routine.
- Reduce the intake of carbohydrates
- Incorporate whole grains and non-starchy vegetables
- Increase the intake of proteins and fiber intake
- Regular exercise
- Sleep at least 6-7 hours a day
- Keep your stress levels under control
How do I maintain my blood sugar levels and prevent them from dropping?
Maintain a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. Make sure that you:
- eat at regular intervals throughout the day
- limit alcohol consumption
- Regularly monitor sugars with a glucometer
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.