What is the purpose of this test?
The Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) Blood Test, 4-Hour, 5 Specimens, is used to evaluate how your body processes glucose over time, helping to diagnose conditions such as prediabetes, diabetes, and gestational diabetes. This test measures how your body processes sugar by taking a fasting blood sample first, followed by four more blood draws after drinking a glucose solution, providing a detailed view of how effectively your body regulates glucose. By identifying patterns in glucose levels, the test can highlight abnormalities in insulin production and glucose metabolism, offering key insights into your body’s ability to manage sugar.
Understanding glucose tolerance is essential for early detection and management of blood sugar imbalances, which can significantly impact your overall health. This test is particularly useful for identifying hidden glucose intolerance that might not be evident with fasting blood sugar tests alone. With this information, healthcare providers can recommend tailored treatments or lifestyle changes to help manage or prevent diabetes and related complications.
Who should get this test?
- Individuals with a family history of diabetes.
- Pregnant women at risk for gestational diabetes.
- People experiencing symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained fatigue.
- Individuals with a history of high blood sugar levels or insulin resistance.
- Those with metabolic syndrome or other risk factors for diabetes.
- Patients who are overweight or have an inactive lifestyle.
- People seeking to monitor their glucose regulation after a diabetes diagnosis or treatment.
When should I order a Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) Blood Test, 4-Hour, 5 Specimens?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns related to blood sugar regulation. Symptoms to consider:
- Frequent urination, excessive thirst, or persistent hunger.
- Fatigue, blurred vision, or slow healing of wounds.
- Sudden weight loss or difficulty maintaining weight.
- Tingling sensations in the hands or feet.
- Unexplained irritability or mood swings.
If you experience these symptoms or have risk factors for diabetes, the Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) Blood Test, 4-Hour, 5 Specimens, can help you and your healthcare provider assess your glucose metabolism and guide your next steps.
Sample ReportAlso Known As: 4 HR Glucose Tolerance, Non-pregnant; Glucose Tolerance 4 HR, Non-pregnant; 4 HR GTT (5 Specimens)
Preparation:Fasting for 10-12 hours required. Three days prior to testing discontinue all nonessential medication that can affect glucose metabolism. Check with physician before stopping any medications. This test requires five blood draws. The first will be taken when you arrive at lab. You will then be given a glucose solution to drink. 4 subsequent collections will be taken at 1 hour intervals. You will be required to remain at the lab until the final collection is taken.
Test Results:
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
