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.
- Diabetes Type 1
- Diabetes Type 2
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
What is 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 insulin in a 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 an insulin blood test?
A tiny needle will be used by a medical practitioner to draw blood from a vein in the arms. A tiny amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial once the needle has been placed. The needle may hurt somewhat when it enters or exits your body.
How to prepare for the test?
Before the test, one should probably fast for at least eight hours, do not eat or drink anything.
Does the 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.
