RBS (Random Blood Sugar)

Glucose is the primary energy source for the body, and it is derived from the breakdown of carbohydrates in the food we consume. After the breakdown, glucose is absorbed into the blood and transported to all the body cells for energy. The blood glucose level is regulated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Low levels of insulin or its reduced effectiveness can cause blood glucose levels to rise, and high blood glucose levels can be a sign of diabetes or prediabetes (a condition where a person has high blood glucose levels but not yet at a level that qualifies as diabetes). 

Your doctor may advise an RBS (Random Blood Sugar) test if you experience symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight gain/loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Early detection of diabetes allows to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. It is also used for monitoring blood sugar levels in individuals with known diabetes, assessing symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and evaluating the effectiveness of diabetes medications.

No special preparation is required before this test. Unlike fasting blood sugar tests, which require an individual to fast for a specific period before the test, an RBS (Random Blood Sugar) test can be performed at any time during the day, providing immediate information about blood sugar levels. However, please inform your doctor about all your medications, as some of them may affect your blood glucose levels and need a dose adjustment before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition and formulate your overall treatment plan.