What does GTT mean in MEDICAL

A glucose tolerance test is a test used to diagnose diabetes and screen for complications related to pre-diabetes or gestational diabetes. It involves drawing blood after an overnight fast and then after someone drinks a sugary beverage. The blood sugar levels are monitored to detect rapid changes in blood sugar which can indicate diabetes or impaired glucose metabolism.

People who are considered at risk of developing diabetes due to genetics, family history, obesity, age, prior gestational diabetes, etc should consider having a glucose tolerance test. Additionally, pregnant women should have this test done between weeks 24-28 of pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes.

During the glucose tolerance test you will first have your blood drawn while fasting in the morning. Then you’ll be asked to drink a very sweet liquid containing 75 grams of sugar. Over the next two hours your blood sugar levels will be monitored by taking more blood samples.

Results from a GTT typically take 1–2 days to come back as each sample needs to be analyzed in the lab before results can be reported back to the doctor's office.

Normal ranges depend on what type of GTT has been completed (Fasting Load or Post Prandial). Fasting load tests need at least 8 hours fast before testing and post prandial tests require 75 grams of carbohydrates within 5 minutes of beginning testing. Normal ranges also vary depending on the fasting and postprandial readings but typically normal range is 70-99mg/dL fasting and less than 140 mg/dL 2 hours postprandial.

You must fast for 8-12 hours prior to your appointment if you are doing the Fasting Load GTT so it’s best not to eat anything beforehand. However, it’s important that you remain hydrated during this time so you can drink water up until an hour before your appointment.

Yes, caffeine can interfere with certain tests including GTTS because it affects your body’s ability metabolize sugar correctly, which can yield false results when testing with one or more finger stick samples taken over 2 hours. If possible try not to drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages 12 hours before your appointment.

The most common side effect associated with GTT is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) caused by drinking too much sugary liquid too quickly resulting in too much insulin being released into your bloodstream making glucose levels drop below normal range causing hypoglycemia symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, sweating and lightheadedness.

Blood draws taken throughout the 2 hour period following consumption of sugary liquids accurately reflect how well insulin is responding enabling diagnosis of impaired glucose metabolism or type 1 or 2 diabetes but further tests may be needed if abnormal levels are found during this screening process.

Generally yes, most insurance companies cover most or all of the cost for this type of diagnostic screening especially when it is performed according to medical necessity as recommended by medical practitioners.