What may be high for one person might be within range for another person. For example, people with more advanced diabetes will have higher A1C targets than those without diabetes. Various underlying conditions, including blood disorders, can also have an effect, as can potentially modifiable factors , such as stress, medications, and lifestyle changes.
A person with an A1C level indicating prediabetes may wish to consider making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a well-balanced diet and staying active, to help manage or even reverse the condition before it progresses to type 2 diabetes. If a person has a higher A1C level, suggesting diabetes, it is advisable for them to contact a doctor.
However, personal targets can vary, and a diabetes care team may consider other factors to help a person set their own individual goals. If a person with diabetes has an A1C test result that is much higher than their set target, a doctor can help advise lifestyle and medication changes to lower their A1C level. In particular, it measures the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood with an attached molecule of glucose.
When glucose attaches to hemoglobin, experts refer to the resulting compound as glycosylated hemoglobin. Type A1 hemoglobin has subtypes, including A1C. As this is the most abundant subtype, it is a good marker for glucose control. The test uses a 3-month average because RBCs typically live for about 3 months.
Therefore, this timeframe reflects the sugar exposure to the cells over that time. The test does not require any specific preparations, so a person does not need to fast prior to the test, and a doctor can perform it at any time of the day.
The A1C test estimates the average blood sugar level over the past 3 months. The test is able to measure this by identifying the percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood. If there is more glucose present in the blood, more glucose is available to attach to hemoglobin. Therefore, if a person has a high percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin, it indicates that they have had high blood sugar for an extended period.
A high A1C level can be concerning, as it may indicate that an individual has a higher risk of diabetes complications. Mental Health. Food and Diabetes.
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Snail Mail Club. Type One Run. So, what do the numbers mean? The A1C test can also be used for diagnosis, based on the following guidelines: If your A1C level is between 5. If you have an A1C level of 6. Checking Your Blood Sugar. Medication Management. Device Technology. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Sections for A1C test About.
Overview The A1C test is a common blood test used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. More Information Diabetes Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome Hyperglycemia in diabetes Prediabetes Type 1 diabetes Type 1 diabetes in children Type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes in children Show more related information.
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