Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.
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The Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel panel contains 2 tests with 2 biomarkers.

The Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel from Ulta Lab Tests provides the fundamental tools for the initial assessment and ongoing monitoring of blood sugar levels in individuals diagnosed with diabetes or those at risk.

This panel is specifically designed to offer quick, straightforward insight into the patient's current glucose control, making it ideal for newly diagnosed patients or as a routine check-up tool for managing the condition effectively.

Patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions about treatment strategies and lifestyle adjustments using this basic but essential data.

Test Details and Their Significance

The Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel includes two critical tests:

  • Glucose:

    • Measures the current blood sugar level.
    • Provides immediate data on the body’s glucose regulation, crucial for daily diabetes management.
    • Helps in detecting hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), conditions that require immediate adjustments in medication, diet, or physical activity.

  • Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C):

    • Measures the average blood glucose control over the past two to three months.
    • Provides a longer-term perspective on how well the diabetes is being managed, influencing treatment plans and goals.
    • Helps predict the risk of diabetes complications, guiding preventative measures.

Symptoms of Diabetes to Recognize

Early identification of diabetes symptoms can lead to more effective management and prevention of serious complications:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night.
  • Increased thirst.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Increased hunger.
  • Fatigue and irritability.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Slow-healing sores.
  • Frequent infections.
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet.

The Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel serves as a critical tool in the arsenal against diabetes, offering essential insights that help manage the disease more effectively. Regular use of this panel ensures that individuals can monitor their condition closely, adjusting their treatment as necessary to maintain optimal health.

Ulta Lab Tests provides patients with reliable, quick, and cost-effective testing solutions that simplify diabetes management and help maintain long-term health.

Benefits of Using Ulta Lab Tests

  • Affordability: Ulta Lab Tests provides this essential panel at a competitive price, making routine monitoring accessible to more people.
  • Convenience: Tests can be scheduled and performed at a wide network of locations, with minimal disruption to daily life.
  • Speed: Results are processed quickly, allowing for rapid adjustments to treatment plans if necessary.
  • Privacy: All patient information and results are handled with the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality.

Using the Diabetes Wellness Basic Panel through Ulta Lab Tests enables individuals to take proactive steps towards controlling their diabetes and improving their overall health while benefiting from the convenience and cost savings Ulta Lab Tests offers.

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