Introduction to HbA1c Blood Test for Diabetes

Diabetes, a silent heath trigger, is a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide. The condition can lead to severe complications. Thus, effective management, timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and routine monitoring become essential. The first step to all of these is undergoing diabetes tests at a diagnostic centre in India. While there are different types of diabetes tests, this article will introduce you to HbA1c.

What is an HbA1c Test?

Also known as the glycated hemoglobin test, HbA1c is a blood test that analyzes the average blood sugar levels in the last two to three months.

The body produces Glycated hemoglobin when sugar (glucose) sticks to the RBCs (Red Blood Cells). The higher levels of HbA1c indicate the increased presence of glucose in the bloodstream, putting the patients at higher risk of developing diabetes complications.

The test is often conducted quarterly since red blood stay cells can live a maximum of four months at once in the human body. However, the frequency of this test can be affected by the patient’s overall health. The number of tests primarily increases for patients with conditions like haemolytic anaemia, thalassaemia, sickle cell anaemia, and others affecting their RBCs.

The HbA1c Levels

The HbA1c results help with the effective management of the disease. It indicates the need to change medication or treatment if required. It is essential to know that several factors, including certain medications like steroids, overall health, lifestyle habits, and mental health, can influence the test results of your diabetes checkup in Gandhinagar.

The ideal HbA1c level for diabetic patients is 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or less. This level is also used to determine type 2 diabetes remission, which means the presence of healthy glucose in the bloodstream without consuming any diabetes medications. If someone is at risk of type 2 diabetes, the levels will be below 42mmol/mol (6%).

How do you Lower the HbA1c Levels?

HbA1c levels above the targeted levels can be concerning. It increases the chances of developing severe complications. Thus, lowering or managing these levels becomes crucial. Some things you can do to maintain the levels are:

• Be more active physically
• Changes in medications and dosage after consultation with the doctor
• Quit smoking
• Eat a nutritious and balanced diet

Conclusion

The HbA1c blood test plays a significant role in monitoring and managing diabetes. The test offers an average of two/three months of glucose levels in the bloodstream, giving caregivers and patients a clear idea about their diabetes situation.

If you cannot visit the laboratory for the test, book a blood test home collection service offered by trusted labs.