Understanding diabetes and its symptoms
Diabetes is a common disease caused by high blood sugar, known as hyperglycemia. This is often due to reduced insulin production in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone important for regulating blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes. Insulin is no longer produced at all: Type I, insulin-dependent diabetes. Type II – non-insulin-dependent diabetes – occurs when not enough insulin is produced or when the body's cells no longer respond adequately to insulin. When blood sugar levels exceed the filtering capacity of the kidneys, glucose appears in the urine. Therefore, urinalysis is a useful tool for monitoring diabetes.
Test diabetes at home
By measuring glucose and ketones in urine, the GetTested Diabetes Test simplifies diabetes monitoring. This simple test, which can be performed at home, provides immediate results without the need for lab analysis. For an accurate assessment, the user can quickly compare their urine sample to the color chart included in the kit. This test is important for determining glucose levels, an early indicator of diabetes.
Ketones and diabetic ketoacidosis
Determining ketone levels is crucial in diagnosing diabetes. Ketones, produced during fatty acid breakdown, accumulate when the body burns fat instead of glucose. This occurs in diabetes when glucose cannot be transported efficiently into the cells. Elevated ketone levels can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication in which ketone bodies accumulate in the blood and urine.
Further testing options
For a more comprehensive assessment of diabetes, GetTested also offers HbA1C tests, which can be used asRapid testas well asLaboratory testTests are available. These tests measure long-term blood sugar control and provide valuable information for diabetes management.
Early detection and treatment
Complications such as retinopathy, kidney failure, nerve damage, and cardiovascular disease can be avoided through early detection of glucose and ketone levels. GetTested's diabetes test simplifies diabetes management, enabling timely medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments.
By actively monitoring glucose and ketone levels at home, people are able to take proactive steps in managing their diabetes, reduce the risk of serious complications, and achieve better overall health.
