Blood Sugar Check (HbA1c)
HbA1c is known as glycated hemoglobin. It forms when glucose (sugar) in the body attaches to red blood cells. If the body can’t use it properly, the sugar can attach and build up in the blood.
High HbA1c occurs when you have too much sugar in your blood. This means you are at higher risk for diabetes complications, such as serious eye and foot problems.
Knowing your HbA1c level and its treatment steps can help reduce the risk of these complications. The way to do this is by checking your HbA1c regularly, at least once a year.
But if the level is too high, you need more attention. Do the examination procedure more often, which is once every 3-6 months.
Difference Between HbA1c Test and Blood Sugar Test
Although they look the same, there are differences between HbA1c and blood sugar tests. However, both need to be done by people with and at risk of diabetes. The goal is to find out blood sugar. Also know: This is the Normal Blood Sugar Level in the Body Based on Age.
Checking blood sugar HbA1c or hemoglobin A1c is different from fasting blood sugar tests. Fasting blood sugar tests show blood sugar levels at that time or at that time. The test is measured in the blood after an eight-hour fast.
Meanwhile, the HbA1c blood sugar check shows the average blood sugar level in 2-3 months. This duration corresponds to the life cycle of red blood cells, which is 3 months. In other words, this examination is more accurate in describing blood sugar levels over a long period of time.
Simply put, HbA1c testing will not be affected if the blood sugar changes are only temporary. For example, by consuming sweet drinks or foods.
While blood sugar testing, this examination can be affected by temporary changes in blood sugar. Because of this, sufferers need to fast for several hours before undergoing the procedure.
Purpose of Blood Sugar Check (HbA1c)
This type of blood sugar check is highly recommended by doctors for those with diabetes. The goal is clear, to monitor blood glucose levels in the body.
In addition to those with high blood sugar, someone who is at risk or whose doctor suspects they have high blood sugar or who has previously been diagnosed with prediabetes also needs to undergo this test.
A person needs to do this test if they experience symptoms such as:
- Easily feel thirsty even though you have drunk.
- Increased frequency of urination, which can interfere with sleep.
- Easily feel tired.
- Vision starts to blur
In addition, doctors also highly recommend this examination for those who have conditions such as:
- Overweight or obesity.
- High blood pressure.
- History of heart disease.
- Physical inactivity or lack of exercise.
Benefits of Blood Sugar Check (HbA1c)
Here are some benefits of checking your blood sugar that you should not miss:
- Can reflect long-term blood glucose concentrations (8-12 weeks).
- You can use it as a treatment guide.
- Can predict the development of complications.
Interestingly, you won’t need to fast before taking the test because you can get the sample at any time of the day. In addition, the results are not changed by acute factors, such as stress or exercise.
When Should You Check Your Blood Sugar (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.
This test can also be used to check for prediabetes in adults. Prediabetes means blood sugar levels that indicate a risk of developing diabetes.
This test helps a person to monitor their body’s condition and glucose levels.
In addition, someone who feels symptoms of diabetes can also immediately do this examination. Discuss with your doctor when is the best time to undergo this test.
If you need to do a Diabetes Screening but don’t have time to go to the hospital, don’t worry!