Diagnosis of Diabetes and Complications

Diabetes and its complications are multisystem metabolic disorders caused by chronic hyperglycemia. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, patients may develop severe complications such as vision loss, kidney dysfunction, and neuropathy. The diagnosis of diabetes mainly relies on blood glucose testing, glucose tolerance tests, and requires evaluation of target organ function to determine the extent of complications.

Diagnostic Basis for Diabetes and Complications

1. Fasting Blood Glucose Test
Fasting blood glucose is one of the basic tests for diagnosing diabetes. Patients should fast for more than 8 hours before the test. A result ≥7.0 mmol/L, combined with symptoms, can confirm the diagnosis.

2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
By drinking a glucose solution and measuring blood glucose levels at intervals, the body's ability to metabolize sugar is assessed. A 2-hour blood glucose level ≥11.1 mmol/L can be used as a preliminary diagnosis of diabetes.

3. Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
This reflects the patient’s average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. HbA1c ≥6.5% indicates long-term hyperglycemia and is an important indicator for diagnosis and monitoring.

4. Urine Microalbumin Test
Used for early detection of diabetic nephropathy. Persistent microalbuminuria suggests glomerular dysfunction and is a key step in complication screening.

5. Fundus Examination
Fundus photography or fluorescein angiography can reveal early signs of diabetic retinopathy such as microaneurysms or hemorrhagic spots, helping to prevent vision loss.

6. Lower Limb Nerve Function Tests
Using a tuning fork, pinprick, or sensory devices to assess nerve response. Neuropathy often manifests as reduced or abnormal sensation, especially in the feet, requiring regular examinations.

7. Insulin Resistance Index Evaluation (HOMA-IR)
Used to analyze whether insulin function is normal. It is suitable for patients with type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, aiding in individualized treatment plans.

8. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Echocardiography
Diabetes patients are at high risk of cardiovascular disease. ECG and echocardiography can assess whether myocardial ischemia or left ventricular hypertrophy has occurred.

9. Blood Lipid and Liver Function Tests
Diabetes is often accompanied by dyslipidemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Relevant biochemical tests can identify potential metabolic disorder risks early.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of diabetes and its complications not only relies on blood glucose levels but also requires systematic and multi-level organ function evaluations. Experts from United Life International Medical Center emphasize that scientific screening and regular follow-up are key steps to preventing complications and protecting patient quality of life. The importance of early diagnosis must not be overlooked.