The PPBS (postprandial blood sugar) test measures blood glucose levels after a meal to detect diabetes. "Postprandial" refers to the period following eating. This test shows how well your body handles sugars and starches after food consumption. It is generally administered after a fasting blood sugar (FBS) test, which checks glucose levels following an 8-12 hour fast.

When you eat, blood glucose levels rise quickly as food is digested. In response, the pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that transports glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy, thereby regulating blood sugar levels. In diabetes, the body fails to produce sufficient insulin or cannot use it effectively, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, can be categorized into:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in little or no insulin.

• Type 2 Diabetes: The body resists insulin or does not produce enough of it.

• Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels are above normal but not yet in the diabetic range.

• Gestational Diabetes: This type occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves postpartum.

The PPBS test is essential for diabetes screening and monitoring. Regular testing can avert severe complications from high blood sugar, such as damage to nerves, the heart, kidneys, and eyes, supporting overall health.

To prepare for a PPBS test, follow these preparations:

Prerequisites

The PPBS blood test in Hyderabad specifically does not require fasting. If other tests like haemoglobin A1c, fasting blood glucose, or glucose tolerance are required, fasting may be necessary. Be sure to inform about any medications or supplements you use to your treating doctor.

The best time to get tested

The test is usually done two hours after a meal that includes at least 75 grams of carbohydrates. Your doctor will guide you on the exact timing and necessary procedures.

Who Should Take the PPBS Test

You might be eligible for the PPBS test if you exhibit symptoms of diabetes such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or blurred vision. It is also applicable to individuals at risk for diabetes, including those who are 45 or older, have a family history, are obese, lead a sedentary lifestyle, have high blood pressure, or have had gestational diabetes. This test is also used for diabetes screening, diagnosing gestational diabetes, and monitoring treatment in diabetic individuals.

Cautions before taking the PPBS test

No special precautions are needed. You should rest before the test to avoid spikes in blood sugar from physical activity. Also, complete your meal and avoid smoking or snacking during the two hours before the test.

Your doctor might suggest a PPBS blood test if diabetes or insulin dysfunction is suspected, particularly if you experience symptoms like:

• Fatigue

• blurry vision

• slow-healing sores

• frequent urination

• increased thirst, or

• recurrent infections

Individuals with diabetes risk factors, such as advanced age, family history, obesity, or sedentary lifestyle, may also require this test. It can be part of routine screening during physical check-ups or used to diagnose gestational diabetes in pregnant women, protecting both the mother and baby from complications. Additionally, the PPBS test is important for assessing how well diabetes treatment is working for those already diagnosed with the condition.

Interpreting PPBS test results and understanding their significance is crucial. Here's how to do it:

A blood sugar level above the normal range two hours after eating may suggest diabetes. Your doctor will evaluate this based on your age, gender, medical history, and additional test results.

Conditions linked to altered blood sugar levels include:

• Low blood sugar can arise from starvation, severe infections, high alcohol use, insulinomas (insulin-producing pancreatic tumours), excessive insulin administration, adrenal insufficiency (underactive adrenal glands), severe liver disease, hypopituitarism (underactive pituitary gland), or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

• High blood sugar beyond diabetes could be associated with hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), Cushing syndrome (elevated cortisol), acute stress (trauma, heart attack, or stroke), acromegaly (excess growth hormone), pancreatic cancer, or pancreatitis (pancreatic inflammation).