Blood Glucose Test Test
A blood glucose test measures the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood. It helps screen for or diagnose diabetes and other conditions that affect blood sugar.
What this test measures
This test measures the amount of glucose, a type of sugar and your body's main energy source, in your blood.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
Higher than normal glucose levels may mean you have or are at risk for diabetes. Other causes include an overactive thyroid, pancreas problems, stress, adrenal gland disorders, or certain medicines.
Lower-than-normal results
In people with diabetes, low glucose may be caused by diabetes medicines, not eating enough, or more physical activity. In people without diabetes, low glucose is less common and may be due to liver or kidney disease, adrenal or pituitary disorders, an underactive thyroid, malnutrition, certain medicines, or alcohol use disorder.
Frequently asked questions
What is a blood glucose test?
It measures the glucose levels in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar and your body's main energy source.
Why might I need this test?
It may be used as part of a routine checkup to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, to help diagnose symptoms of high or low blood sugar, or to monitor side effects of certain medicines.
What does a high blood glucose result mean?
It may mean you have or are at risk for diabetes. Other causes include an overactive thyroid, pancreas problems, stress, adrenal gland disorders, or certain medicines.
What does a low blood glucose result mean?
In people with diabetes, it's often caused by diabetes medicines, not eating enough, or more physical activity. In people without diabetes, it's less common and may be due to liver or kidney disease, certain hormone disorders, malnutrition, or alcohol use.
How should I interpret my test results?
The meaning depends on which test you had, other test results, and your medical history. Ask your provider what your results say about your health.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Blood Glucose Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.