An A1C blood test indicates how well blood sugar has been controlled over the past two or three months. It is a test for people who have diabetes. The test helps doctors to understand how well a person’s diabetes is managed. There are different levels of A1C. Read on to understand what such levels mean and why it becomes crucial to maintain a healthy range.
A1C measures the average level of glucose (sugar) in the blood over a few months. The test measures how much glucose is there in haemoglobin, which refers to the protein present in red blood cells.
When the glucose levels are too high, more glucose attaches to haemoglobin. By checking your A1C level, doctors can get an idea of your blood sugar control.
For people without diabetes, the A1C level is generally below 5.7%. This means that their blood sugar is within a healthy range. These people have a lower risk of developing diabetes. Now, if the A1C level falls between the range of 5.7% and 6.4%, it indicates prediabetes.
The goal for diabetic people is to keep the A1C level below 7%. However, the percentage may vary according to the age, overall health and how well they are managing the condition. It is always recommended to follow a doctor's advice about a particular target range.
A1C levels of 6.5% or higher are considered to be a threshold for diabetes. After the levels reach 6.5% or above, it becomes important to start monitoring blood sugar carefully to prevent complications. Here are a few level indicators of A1C:
Here are a few steps to take if the A1C level is too high:
A dangerous A1C level can lead to serious health problems. With the right care and attention, you can work to keep A1C levels within a healthy range. It is recommended to speak to a doctor for guidance on monitoring blood sugar levels.