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Sugar reading confusion
I am 30 weeks pregnant and was advised to do Fasting Blood sugar. At the same time I also checked my sugar on the glucometer. The FBS result came at 78mg/dl and glucometer showed 105mg/dl. Is this much difference normal?
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There is difference in values when we measure glucose in plasma, capillary and whole blood. Glucometer measure capillary glucose. There is a 10-15% difference in blood glucose value when we measure it by glucometer. Your fasting glucose is normal, however, i am advising you for a Oral glucose tolerance test.
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Yes there is difference between capillary glucose and plasma glucose. U need to calibrate your glucometer according to labs. Your value is optimal . No need to worry.
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Need few more details
Kindly connect.
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Can help you, kindly consult and provide detailed history for proper diagnosis and further management
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Yes, a difference between lab and glucometer readings is quite common and usually not a cause for concern. Lab fasting blood sugar (FBS) is measured by enzymatic analysis under controlled conditions, while glucometers use capillary (finger-prick) blood and can vary by 15-20 mg/dL depending on calibration, hand cleanliness, strip quality, and timing. Your readings - 78 mg/dL (lab) vs 105 mg/dL (glucometer) - fall within that expected variation. In pregnancy, lab values are preferred for medical decisions, as precision matters in gestational diabetes screening. You can continue using the glucometer for home trends, but rely on lab results for diagnosis. For a personalised review of your readings and meal pattern, book a consultation on Practo.
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Dr. A Raja Prasanna Kumar
Pulmonologist
46 yrs exp
Hyderabad
Pl have Hba1c done and consult.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.