What is a Blood Sugar Check (HbA1c)?
Checking blood sugar HbA1c or hemoglobin A1c is different from fasting blood sugar tests. A fasting blood sugar check shows blood sugar levels for a moment or at that time. The check was measured in blood after an eight-hour fast. How to calculate average glucose from a1c. The HbA1c blood sugar check shows the average blood sugar level in 2-3 months.
This HbA1c check will calculate the level of HbA1c (hemoglobin A1c) in the blood. HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin is the hemoglobin associated with blood glucose.
This duration corresponds to the red blood cell life cycle, which is three months. In other words, the HbA1C test is more accurate to describe blood sugar levels over a long period of time.
In the body, glucose naturally binds with hemoglobin in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells whose job is to transport oxygen.
Why Do Blood Sugar Checks (HbA1c)?
HbA1c blood sugar check is highly recommended for those who have diabetes. The goal is clear, to monitor blood glucose levels in the body. In addition to people with diabetes, someone who is at risk or suspected of having diabetes or who was previously diagnosed with prediabetes, also needs to undergo this test.
A person is recommended to do an HbA1c test if they experience symptoms of diabetes, such as:
- It’s easy to feel thirsty even though you’ve been drinking.
- Increased frequency of urination, materials to disrupt sleep.
- It’s easy to feel tired.
- Blurred vision
In addition, HbA1c blood sugar checks are also recommended for those who have a risk of developing diabetes. For example:
- Overweight or obese.
- High blood pressure.
- History of heart disease.
- Physical inactivity or infrequent exercise.
When Should You Have a Blood Sugar Check (HbA1c)?
Basically, everyone who has diabetes is required to have a glycosylated hemoglobin test. This examination is recommended once every three months or at least once a year.
In addition, the HbA1c test is used to assess for adult prediabetes. Prediabetes refers to levels of blood sugar that suggest a risk for diabetes development. The HbA1c test can assist patients with diabetes and prediabetes monitor the state and glucose levels of their body.
In addition, someone who feels the symptoms of diabetes can also immediately do this examination. Discuss with your doctor when is the best time to have this test. In addition, discuss with your doctor what tests are needed to monitor diabetes or prediabetes.
How to Check Blood Sugar (HbA1c)?
The procedure for checking HbA1c blood sugar is practically the same as blood test procedures in general. Here the doctor or medical personnel will draw blood by piercing a needle into a vein in the arm.
How to calculate average glucose from a1c. After the blood is drawn, the blood sample will then be tested in the laboratory. Generally, the results of the HbA1c test can be seen within a few days. Ask a doctor or medical professional to interpret the results.
The results of the HbA1c examination will be written in percentages, such as:
- Normal: HbA1c count below 5.7 percent.
- Prediabetes: HbA1c counts between 5.7–6.4 percent.
- Diabetes: HbA1c count of 6.5 percent or more.
It should be emphasized, the higher the number of HbA1c, the more hemoglobin associated with glucose. This condition can indicate that high blood sugar levels in the blood.
Remember, if the HbA1c level is more than 8 percent, there is a possibility that the body has uncontrolled diabetes. Do not play with this condition, because it can trigger various complications.
After the results of this examination come out, ask your doctor for medical advice to regulate blood sugar or the right lifestyle to manage diabetes or prediabetes.
Where to Check Blood Sugar (HbA1c)?
HbA1c blood sugar checks can be done in hospitals or other health facilities. This examination is carried out by a doctor or other experienced medical personnel.