Insulin Test: Cost, Procedure and Result
An insulin blood test is a medical test that measures the level of insulin in a person's blood. The level of insulin in your blood is determined by this test. A hormone called insulin aids in the transfer of blood sugar, also known as glucose, from the circulation to the cells. You get glucose through the foods you consume. It is the primary energy source for your body.
Maintaining the proper amounts of glucose is mostly dependent on insulin. Serious health issues may result from glucose levels that are high or too low. Glucose levels that are not normal are called:
Hyperglycemia: It is a condition of very high blood glucose levels. When your body doesn't produce enough insulin, it occurs. Insufficient insulin prevents glucose from entering your cells. Instead, it remains in the bloodstream.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood glucose levels are referred to as hypoglycemia. Too much glucose will enter your cells if your body releases too much insulin into the circulation. Less remains in the bloodstream as a result.
The most frequent reason for abnormal glucose levels is diabetes. Diabetes comes in two different forms.
Type 2 diabetes frequently develops before insulin resistance. To compensate for insufficient insulin, the body produces more insulin due to insulin resistance. Hypoglycemia can be brought on by an excess of insulin in the blood. But with time, insulin resistance usually worsens. It eventually reduces your body's capacity to produce insulin. Blood sugar levels increase when insulin levels decline. If the level doesn't go back to normal, type 2 diabetes can develop.
Other names: Other names of this test are insulin serum, fasting insulin, total and free insulin
Fasting Insulin Test Cost
In India, the fasting insulin test price usually falls between ₹500 to ₹1,500, which also depends on the diagnostic centre and place. The test requires a fast of 8–12 hours. It determines the levels of insulin within the blood in order to assess for insulin resistance, diagnosis for diabetes, or additional factors such as metabolic syndrome. The cost will usually vary based on such add-ons, as there are many diagnostic centres nowadays providing particular tests calibrated smartly and carefully incorporated in a complete package for a general health checkup. It is advisable to check with local labs or hospitals for the most recent pricing.
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What is the Fasting Insulin Test used for?
Most frequently, an insulin in a blood test is used to:
- Identify the source of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Analyze or keep an eye on insulin resistance.
- Persons with type 2 diabetes should have their health monitored.
- Find out if an insulinoma, a specific form of pancreatic tumor, is present. The test may be performed to determine whether the tumor removal was effective if it has already been done.
What is the Need for an Insulin Blood Test?
One may need an insulin blood test if they have symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Increased hunger
You may also require this test if other tests, such as a blood glucose test, reveals that you have low blood sugar.
What Happens During Fasting Insulin Blood Test Procedure?
An insulin blood test is the best way to check this hormone, which is also a simple procedure that usually requires fasting. Here’s how it works:
- Preparation: You might be required to avoid eating for 8 — 12 hours prior to the examination, except for water.
- Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare practitioner inserts a small needle into one of your veins (most often in your arm) to take a sample. It literally only takes a minute.
- Lab Analysis: This blood sample is delivered to a laboratory where insulin levels are determined.
These test results assist in evaluating insulin production and are generally used to diagnose conditions such as insulin resistance, diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
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Does the Insulin Test Include Any Risks?
There is no risk or danger associated with the test. Some people may get little discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but mostly it goes soon.
What do the Results Mean?
If your insulin levels are too high, it might mean you have the following:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Insulin resistance
- Hypoglycemia
- Cushing's syndrome (adrenal glands disorder). Adrenal glands produce hormones which aid the body break down fat and protein.
- An insulinoma
If insulin levels are too low, it might mean you have the following:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Important Information to know about a Blood Test for Insulin?
Insulin and glucose function in together. As a result, before establishing a diagnosis, your doctor may compare the results of the blood test for glucose and insulin.
