Your sample is collected through a virtually painless, state-of-the-art blood collection device that attaches to your arm.
- Hold the device flat against your arm
- Press the red button
- Allow blood to fill the collection device for 2 minutes
- Remove device from arm and place in specimen bag
When asked to describe the pain level on a scale of 1-10, the average user answer was 1.
Prediabetes and Diabetes Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may want to consider getting testing for diabetes.
- Frequent urination
- Unquenchable thirst
- Weight loss without trying
- Blurry vision
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Extreme fatigue
- Sores that heal slowly
- Being sick very frequently
Why A1C Testing is Crucial
You have probably heard of the A1C test, but do you know why it’s so important? Not only can the A1C test identify prediabetes, but it can diagnose and monitor diabetes as well. This relatively simple blood test is vital when it comes to managing this condition.
Essentially, it gives you an overall look at your blood sugar levels from the past two to three months. If it is high, you are at a greater risk of developing complications from diabetes.
The test is needed two to four times a year to monitor your diabetes correctly. However, it may be required much more often if you are not meeting your treatment goals. And that is the importance of the A1C. To help you know if you are meeting your health goals.
You can even work with your doctor to set an individual goal based on your specific circumstances. This will allow you to modify the management of your diabetes and live the healthiest life possible.
Another thing to consider is that diabetes puts you at a higher risk of developing high cholesterol. This is because blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol all work together in the body; if one is out of range, it affects the others.
High cholesterol puts you at a greater risk for stroke and heart disease. So it is not only necessary to monitor blood sugar when living with diabetes but cholesterol as well.
Risk Factors for Diabetes
There are two types of diabetes, aptly named type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is a genetic condition that often shows up early in life. So far, there is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 is related to lifestyle and progresses over time. Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented with lifestyle changes such as losing weight and staying physically fit.
Risk factors for type 1 diabetes include:
- Family history
- Caucasian ethnicity
- Young age (Although it can develop at any age, it is more likely in children and young adults)
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:
- Being overweight
- 45 years of age or older
- Are not very physically active
- Have a family member with type 2 diabetes
FAQ | Diabetes & Heart Health Test
Q: Does the test hurt?
A: Even users who said they were scared of needles and having their blood drawn described our blood collection device as painless. We're thrilled the blood collection method used in our kits is encouraging users to monitor their health more often!
Q: What if I need help with the test and online registration process?
A: A member of our team would be happy to guide you through the process! Give us a call during regular business hours Monday-Friday 9am-5pm PST at 888-909-4877.
Q: How do I view my results?
A: When you receive your test kit, you'll find instructions for registering your kit through our secure lab portal. During this process, you'll create a patient profile account where you'll be able to view your results digitally.
