Diabetes, or high sugar levels, has become a household name these days. Particularly India, which is often referred to as the “diabetes capital of the world”. With our unhealthy and stressful lifestyle, monitoring daily sugar levels can feel like a task. But it’s actually easier than what you think. The HbA1c test does exactly that. Whether you have diabetes, have a family history, or are just wanting to be cautious about your health, this simple blood test is one of the most effective tools in identifying and managing early signs of diabetes.

What Does HbA1c Mean?

The term HbA1c refers to a process, where average sugar level in your blood is measured over the past 3 months. It’s also known as glycated hemoglobin. This happens when the glucose (a kind of sugar) in your blood sticks to your red blood cells (RBC). Our body produces insulin, a type of hormone, to use this glucose (sugar) for energy. But if due to some reasons your body doesn’t use sugar properly, it may attach to these cells for a longer period. Since red blood cells live for around three months, this test gives a picture of how high your sugar levels have been during that time.

High levels of HbA1c means your blood sugar has been high for longer than usual. This increases the risk of diabetes complications, such as damage to your eyes, nerves, or feet. That’s why checking your HbA1c regularly is so important and you should take this test at least once a year. The HbA1c test is recommended to everyone irrespective of your diabetes status.

What is an HbA1C test?

HbA1c is short for glycated haemoglobin test, which is a highly effective test in diagnosing and monitoring existing diabetes. The A1c (HbA1c) test measures an average blood sugar (glucose) level in your blood over the past three months. The goal of this test is to detect early signs of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes conditions. The HbA1c blood test calculates the percentage of red blood cells that have hemoglobin with glucose attached to it. The reason why the A1c test measures an average of the past three months is because the lifespan of these cells is only 3 months. Below is the interpretation of a HbA1c test result: 

Normal: If your result is below 5.6%, you are non-diabetic.

Prediabetes: If it’s between 5.7% and 6.4%, you are prediabetic.   

Diabetes: If the result is 6.5% or higher, you have diabetes.

The normal range for HbA1c is generally considered to be below 5.7%.

How HbA1c Test Is Different From Blood Sugar Test?

HbA1c TestBlood Sugar Test
An HbA1c test checks your average blood sugar levels over the last 3 months. The test shows current sugar levels.
The primary aim of this test is long-term diabetes management.The aim is to check immediate sugar levels.
Done every 3 to 6 monthsCan be done daily or multiple times a day.
HbA1C and Blood Sugar

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

If you are experiencing the following symptoms, you should get an HbA1c test. These symptoms could be a signal of diabetes and prediabetes:

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Extreme hunger
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Blurry vision
  • Numbing Sensation
  • Wounds may heal slowly
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Skin problems
  • Recurrent infections

Importance of the HbA1c test 

The purpose of this test is more than just detecting diabetes. It also provides a long-term picture of your average blood sugar levels. Here’s why it’s important: 

1. Early Detection: The test can detect signs of prediabetes and diabetes even before the symptoms show up. Early detection can help in better treatment without dealing with the serious complications.

2. Monitoring condition: If you are already diagnosed with diabetes, the HbA1C test can help doctors in evaluating how well your sugar levels are being managed. With the help of results, your health care provider can determine if the treatment is effective or not.

3. Predicts Serious Health Risks: Higher levels of HbA1C can cause serious damage to multiple organs. They are linked with heart problems, kidney issues, and nerve damage. By monitoring and taking preventive steps, you can reduce the risk.

4. Personalised Treatment Plans: Based on your test results, doctors can assess the effectiveness of medications, diet, and exercise in managing blood sugar levels. 

Who Should Get an HbA1C Test?

1. Family History: If your family has a history of diabetes, your chances of getting it are also higher. Performing an HbA1C test regularly can help you detect early signs of diabetes, which can be prevented with effective and timely treatment.

2. Individuals with symptoms: If you are experiencing frequent symptoms like constant fatigue, feeling thirsty, slow wound healing, or sudden change in body weight could be an early indicator of elevated blood sugar levels. 

3. Diagnosed with Prediabetes: Prediabetes is a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. The HbA1C test can help you determine whether your condition is improving or getting worse.

4. People with Diabetes: The HbA1C test plays an important role in managing your current levels, whether it’s type 1 or type 2 diabetes. With the help of regular testing, doctors can determine if the current treatment plan is working or not.

5. Pregnant Women: Expecting mothers with risk factors such as obesity, a personal or family history of diabetes, or previous gestational diabetes should consider the HbA1C test. It helps ensure the well-being of both mother and baby by identifying any blood sugar issues early on.

How to Lower Blood Sugar Levels Naturally at Home?

Managing your blood sugar levels doesn’t always require heavy medicines or complicated diet plans. With some simple lifestyle changes, you can naturally lower your blood sugar and improve your overall health. Whether you are living with diabetes, prediabetes, or just concerned about your sugar levels, follow these effective tips to keep your sugar in check:

1. Eat a Balanced and Healthy Diet: One of the most important steps to manage or lower your blood sugar naturally is through your diet. Focus on eating high-fiber foods like green leafy vegetables, whole grains, fruits and seeds. Also include eggs, fish and chicken, which are rich in protein.

2. Regular Checkup: Monitoring your sugar levels is essential to understand how your body responds to food, exercise, stress, or medication. Regular sugar monitoring through HbA1c tests can help you avoid major diseases.

3. Proper Medications: If you have pre-existing diabetes, consistency is key. Taking your prescribed medicines at the right time every day will help you prevent health complications and maintain stable blood glucose levels. 

4. Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps your body use insulin more efficiently. 30 minutes of daily workout like walking, cycling, jogging, yoga, or even dancing can help bring down blood sugar levels and improve overall fitness. 

Remember, diabetes can not be reversed or cured but can be controlled and managed with a regular HbA1c test. In many cases, you may not see visible symptoms in the beginning, but over time, they can slowly damage your heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes. With the HbA1c test, it’s easier than ever before to monitor and take preventive steps to avoid any serious complications. So, don’t wait for prominent symptoms to appear, add the HbA1c test into your regular health checkup and take the first step towards better health.

Frequently Asked Question

Q. What is the normal hba1c range?

Ans. Generally, hba1c test normal range is between 20 and 39mmol/mol (4 to 5.7%), it is considered normal.

Q. Is there a permanent cure for diabetes?

Ans. No, diabetes cannot be cured or revised. However it can be managed through lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight control, and medication.

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