Question 1

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. It is caused by the pancreas producing inadequate insulin (Type 1) or the body's cells becoming resistant to insulin's effects (Type 2). The Glucose, Serum test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures blood sugar levels.

Question 2

What causes diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Diabetes mellitus is caused by problems with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in little to no insulin production. In Type 2 diabetes, the body develops insulin resistance, meaning cells don't respond properly to insulin, and over time the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes cause insulin resistance.

Question 3

What is the best test for diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

The Glucose, Serum test is the most important test for diabetes mellitus because it directly measures the amount of sugar in your blood at the time of testing, providing immediate evidence of elevated glucose levels. A fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate occasions confirms diabetes. The Hemoglobin (Hgb) A1c With eAG Estimation is essential for long-term monitoring because it reveals your average blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months by measuring glycated hemoglobin. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes. Together, these tests provide both current and historical glucose control information for accurate diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

Question 4

When should I get tested for diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, constant hunger, blurred vision, or slow-healing wounds. Testing is also important if you are over 45 years old, have a family history of diabetes, are overweight or obese, have high blood pressure, or have been diagnosed with prediabetes. Women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy should get tested regularly, as they have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later. Early detection through blood testing allows for prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms of diabetes mellitus include excessive thirst and frequent urination as your kidneys work to remove excess glucose through urine. You might notice unexplained weight loss despite increased hunger, as your body cannot properly use glucose for energy. Other signs include fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing cuts or bruises, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, and frequent infections. Type 1 diabetes symptoms often appear suddenly and severely, while Type 2 diabetes symptoms develop gradually and may be mild at first, sometimes going unnoticed for years.

Question 6

Who is at risk for diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a sedentary lifestyle, being over 45 years old, and having a family history of diabetes. People with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or a history of gestational diabetes are at increased risk. Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders, have higher diabetes rates. Type 1 diabetes risk factors include family history, genetics, and certain viral infections, though it can develop in people without these risk factors.

Question 7

What happens if diabetes mellitus is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated diabetes mellitus can lead to serious and life-threatening complications affecting multiple organ systems. High blood sugar damages blood vessels throughout your body, leading to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure requiring dialysis, vision loss and blindness, and nerve damage causing pain, numbness, or digestive problems. Poor circulation combined with nerve damage can result in foot ulcers, infections, and amputations. Uncontrolled diabetes also increases your risk of Alzheimer's disease, dental problems, skin infections, and hearing impairment. In severe cases, extremely high blood sugar can cause diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, both potentially fatal emergencies.

Question 8

Can diabetes mellitus be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, diabetes mellitus is primarily diagnosed through blood tests that measure glucose levels in your bloodstream. The Glucose, Serum test measures your blood sugar at a specific point in time, with fasting levels of 126 mg/dL or higher indicating diabetes. The Hemoglobin A1c test shows your average blood glucose over 2-3 months, with levels of 6.5% or higher confirming diabetes. An oral glucose tolerance test, which measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sugary solution, can also diagnose diabetes. Unlike many conditions requiring physical exams or imaging, blood tests provide definitive evidence for diabetes diagnosis.

Question 9

How is diabetes mellitus treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for diabetes mellitus focuses on keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. Type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin injections or an insulin pump because the body produces no insulin. Type 2 diabetes may be managed with oral medications like metformin, injectable medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, or insulin when needed. All people with diabetes benefit from a healthy diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, regular physical activity, weight management, and consistent blood sugar monitoring. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Question 10

How can I prevent diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, you can significantly reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle modifications. Maintain a healthy weight by losing 5-10% of your body weight if you are overweight, as this can dramatically lower diabetes risk. Exercise regularly with at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates. If you have prediabetes, working closely with your healthcare provider and making these changes can prevent or delay the progression to Type 2 diabetes.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

While natural approaches cannot replace medical treatment, certain lifestyle measures can help support blood sugar control alongside prescribed medications. Cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity when added to foods or taken as a supplement, though always consult your doctor about dosage. Chromium and magnesium supplements can help regulate blood sugar in people who are deficient in these minerals. Regular physical activity like walking after meals helps lower blood sugar naturally by increasing insulin sensitivity. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can improve glucose control since stress hormones raise blood sugar. Adequate sleep of 7-9 hours nightly is essential, as poor sleep disrupts hormone balance and increases insulin resistance.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Diabetes Mellitus Blood Test

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

What causes diabetes mellitus?

What is the best test for diabetes mellitus?

When should I get tested for diabetes mellitus?

References

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