🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Glucose Blood Test

Price
£59

Turnaround

12 hours

Appointment

15 minutes

glucose test tube

Find Out More

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Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

pound iconPrice: £59

Turnaround: 12 hours

Appointment: 15 minutes

The Importance Of Glucose Testing

Each year, around 5 million glucose tests are carried out in the UK, primarily for diabetes screening and monitoring. With approximately 4.9 million people in the UK living with diabetes, and 90% of them diagnosed with type 2, keeping on top of your health is more important than ever.

Whether you are managing a chronic condition or just looking to stay on top of your well-being, our dedicated team is here to support you.

Glucose Explained

Glucose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) that is a primary source of energy for the cells in your body. It is found in many foods, particularly in carbohydrates. When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, which then enters the bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps cells absorb glucose from the blood for use as energy or storage.

In addition to being crucial for energy, glucose levels in the blood are tightly regulated. Too little glucose can lead to hypoglycemia, while too much can result in hyperglycemia, which is often associated with diabetes.

Why Regularly Testing Matters

  • Diabetes Management: For individuals with diabetes, monitoring glucose levels is essential to manage the condition effectively. Regular testing helps ensure that blood sugar levels remain within a target range.
  • Pre-Diabetes Detection: If you are at risk of developing diabetes, a glucose blood test can help detect pre-diabetes early, allowing for lifestyle changes that can prevent the onset of the disease.
  • Health Monitoring: Even if you do not have diabetes, keeping track of your glucose levels can provide insight into your overall health and help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Woman doctor smiling
Woman doctor taking notes

Types Of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disorder that destroys insulin-producing cells, requiring lifelong insulin therapy, usually starting in youth.
Type 2 Diabetes: Characterised by insulin resistance and reduced insulin production, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the condition. It typically develops in adults but is increasingly seen in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates and sedentary lifestyles.
Gestational Diabetes: High blood sugar during pregnancy that usually returns to normal after childbirth.
Monogenic Diabetes: Caused by genetic mutations affecting insulin production, with varying onset and treatment.
Secondary Diabetes: Resulting from other conditions or treatments, typically managed by addressing the underlying cause and controlling blood sugar.

Common Symptoms Of Diabetes

Diabetes can present with a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on whether someone has type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Here are some common signs:

  • Frequent Urination: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb the excess sugar, leading to increased urination.
  • Increased Thirst: Due to frequent urination, the body loses a lot of fluids, which makes you feel unusually thirsty.
  • Extreme Hunger: The body’s inability to use glucose properly can lead to feelings of constant hunger.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating more, people with diabetes may lose weight because the body starts to break down muscle and fat for energy.
  • Fatigue: High blood sugar levels can make it hard for glucose to enter cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.
  • Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of the eyes, affecting your ability to see clearly.
  • Slow-Healing Sores Or Frequent Infections: Diabetes can impair the body’s ability to heal and fight infections.
  • Dark Patches Of Skin: Some people may develop dark patches of skin, especially around the neck or armpits, known as acanthosis nigricans.
  • Tingling Or Numbness In Hands Or Feet: This can occur due to nerve damage from prolonged high blood sugar levels.
  • Dry Mouth Or Itchy Skin: These can be related to dehydration from frequent urination or other diabetes-related issues.

Statistics​

Of diabetics monitor glucose for health management.
0 %
Of glucose tests detect type 2 diabetes.
0 %
Of non-diabetics check glucose yearly.
0 %
Of UK adults know glucose impacts health.
0 %

How To Book A Blood Test?

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

Choose your test type

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly phlebotomists or trained clinicians.

Procedure

Type of sample taken: Blood
preparing for appointment

Preparing for test

Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for your diabetes blood test. Typically, this includes fasting for 8 to 12 hours beforehand. Be sure to inform your doctor of any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can influence blood glucose levels and potentially affect the test results. Unless advised otherwise, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated; this can make the blood draw process smoother. Additionally, avoid consuming sugary or high-carb foods the day before the test to ensure accurate results.

during the appointment

During the test

The blood test involves drawing a small sample of blood, typically from a vein in your arm. This process is quick, usually lasting just a few minutes, and you may experience a slight pinch as the needle is inserted. It is important to stay as calm and relaxed as possible during the test to help make the procedure go smoothly. If you have any concerns or a fear of needles, please let us know in advance so we can provide additional support and make the experience as comfortable as possible for you.

post appointment

Results

Resume normal eating and drinking unless advised otherwise. If you were fasting, you can eat and drink immediately after the test. You can generally return to your regular activities right away. If you experience any discomfort or dizziness, sit down and rest until you feel better. Results are typically available within a few days to a week. We will inform you as soon as they are received.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic
for blood testing

No
Hidden Charges

Transparent fees. The price you see is the price you pay.

No GP consultation
needed

No GP appointment requirement for blood tests

Established
since 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team.

Strictly
confidential

Your medical records are kept private at all times.

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Glucose Blood Test

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Book Your Blood Test Today

We offer a wide range of private blood tests in London. Same-day appointments are available 5 days a week.

Specialist Medical Team

We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.

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What are normal blood glucose levels?
Normal blood glucose levels vary depending on whether you have fasted. Fasting glucose levels of 4.0 to 5.9 mmol/L are considered normal. Levels above 7.0 mmol/L on two separate tests indicate diabetes. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your specific situation.
What if my glucose test results are abnormal?
If your glucose test results are higher or lower than normal, your doctor will discuss the possible reasons and may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes. Abnormal results may indicate conditions like diabetes, prediabetes, or hypoglycemia, which require proper management and treatment.
How often should I have a glucose blood test?
The frequency of glucose blood tests depends on your individual risk factors and health status. People with diabetes may need regular monitoring, while those at risk of developing diabetes might be tested annually or as recommended by their doctor.

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