Insulin - Random

Insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose absorption in the body. Its deficiency or decreased function can result in diabetes. A high level of insulin can cause hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose).

The Insulin Random Test determines the amount of insulin in the blood without fasting. The test is used to determine the source of hyperglycaemia, hypoglycaemia and pancreatic tumours, and to monitor diabetes.

In addition, the Insulin Random Test is also used to diagnose whether a person has type 1 diabetes. Your healthcare provider could prescribe you various other tests in tandem with the Insulin Random Test. These include:

• HbA1c test
• Oral glucose tolerance test
• Glucose challenge test
• Fasting plasma glucose test
• C-peptide test 
• Insulin assay test

These tests help determine whether one has type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It is essential to look for the signs of diabetes and get a consultation at an early stage since it can be a life-altering diagnosis. Some of the signs to undergo an Insulin Random Test are:

• Blurry vision
• Extreme fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Increased hunger
• Amplified thirst
• Sores that take too long to heal
• Weight loss
• Frequent infections
• Irritability
• Rapid unexplained weight loss

Once the results of the insulin test return, the varying levels of insulin may point to either of the following possibilities. If your insulin levels are higher than average, you may have:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Insulin resistance
• Pancreatic tumour
• Hypoglycaemia
• Cushing's syndrome (a condition of the adrenal gland)

Low levels of insulin may point toward one of the following:

• Hyperglycaemia
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Type 1 diabetes

Accordingly, your healthcare provider may draw up a medical plan to help manage the symptoms of the diseases. Some treatment options for diabetes include:

• Monitoring your blood glucose levels regularly
• Taking Insulin therapy 
• Oral medication such as Metformin tablets
• Pancreatic transplant (in extreme cases)
• Bariatric surgery (in extreme cases)

The treatment for type 1 diabetes includes insulin injections or an insulin pump, along with frequent blood sugar monitoring and carbohydrate counting. However, type 2 diabetes is treated primarily through lifestyle changes, in addition to taking insulin, diabetic medication, and monitoring blood sugar levels.

Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive Insulin Random Test that can help prevent several complications that typically entail diabetes, such as:

• Cardiovascular disease 
• Increased possibilities of a heart attack or stroke
• Nephropathy
• Depression
• Neuropathy
• Retinopathy and vision loss
• Bacterial and fungal infections
• Dementia
• Foot damage through infections and sores due to slowed healing abilities
• Loss of hearing
   

Medically reviewed by Dr. K Surya Pavan Reddy, Diabetologist at Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.