Diabetes is a common disease in the UK, which may cause serious, long-term complications when untreated or improperly managed. With the appropriate care from an experienced doctor, symptoms can be reduced, and, in certain cases, the condition is reversed.
The two types of diabetes – type I and II affect metabolism in the body, the process by which the body converts food to energy. Both types of diabetes affect the blood sugar levels and make the body’s insulin unable to break down glucose.
Type I diabetes is a genetic autoimmune disorder that affects insulin production in the body. Diagnosis of this condition usually occurs during childhood.
Type II diabetes is more common and occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. This type of diabetes develops due to being overweight and obese, poor diet, elevated cholesterol levels and lack of exercise.
Different blood sugar tests are available at Medical Express Clinic, depending on the patient’s concerns and risk factors. Your result can be discussed during the GP consultation, follow-up email, phone call, or in person, if necessary.
The glycated haemoglobin (HBA1C) test is available to detect diabetes early in a prediabetic state. This test can indicate your risk for diabetes.
The HBA1C test is available at £63. If you are concerned about being diabetic, consider having a consultation with our experienced doctor.
Ensure you arrive at the clinic well-hydrated if you are coming for your blood test.
Diabetes screening involves a simple blood test. The healthcare provider will insert a needle into a vein, usually on the inner arm close to the elbow, to draw a small amount of blood. You may feel a scratching or pricking sensation during the blood draw.
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The cost of the test only includes your blood sample collection and sending the result via email. A consultation fee will apply if you need an in-person consultation with our doctor to interpret the result. We recommend a consultation before any testing to discuss the most accurate testing.
You can call Medical Express Clinic today at 0207 499 1991 to book an appointment with us for blood testing and accurate diagnosis of different conditions, including diabetes, or to get more information on diabetes testing.
Type I and II diabetes affect the body’s insulin use or uptake. Insulin is the hormone responsible for signalling the body to use glucose.
In type I diabetes, the body doesn’t produce insulin; in type II diabetes, the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin release.
You can get tested for diabetes as advised by your doctor. If you have a family history of diabetes, including frequent urination, especially at night, weight loss, muscle loss, low energy levels or increased thirst.
Type II diabetes isn’t common in people under 40, but the number of cases in younger people is increasing. Consult your GP if you need diabetes testing.
Diabetes testing is accurate when done in a healthcare setting or reputable laboratory. However, following pre-test instructions, such as fasting, will ensure accurate results.
HBA1C is glycated haemoglobin, a long-term indicator of your blood sugar levels. It is a protein in the blood when red blood cells bind to glucose. People with diabetes usually have higher HBA1C levels, depending on their risk of developing complications.
For people with type I diabetes, reducing HBA1C levels can lower the risk of microvascular complications, including diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy. For those with type II diabetes, a slight reduction in HBA1C can lower the risk of peripheral vascular disease, heart failure, and cataracts.
A positive result for diabetes testing indicates elevated blood sugar levels and may indicate diabetes. Ensure you consult your healthcare professional to provide further diagnosis, evaluation and guidance to manage the condition.
Health insurance plans usually cover diabetes tests, but the coverage may differ. Ensure you call your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage details of your plan for diabetes testing.