If your healthcare provider believes you may have type 2 diabetes, you will need certain exams and tests. You should expect to be asked questions about your health history, symptoms, risk factors and family history of disease. Understanding your background will help your provider make a diagnosis.

He or she may also give you a physical exam with laboratory testing that includes:

  • A1C test. This blood test measures average blood glucose levels over a span of three months.
  • Fasting plasma glucose test. This measures blood glucose levels after a night of not eating.
  • Glucose tolerance test. You will drink glucose-containing fluids after an overnight fast. Your blood glucose levels are tested prior to and after drinking the fluids.
  • Random blood sugar test. This blood test measures blood sugar levels at any time.
  • Urinalysis. This urine test helps determine if the urine has ketones, which the body makes when burning fat for energy.