Beech Tree News Network

This week we continue to focus on the "Know My Numbers" idea. In a recent article we mentioned knowing your A1c. For the diabetic patient, this is a critical number to know.  The A1c test—also known as the hemoglobin A1c or HbA1c test—is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It’s one of the commonly used tests to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, and is also the main test to help you and your health care team manage your diabetes. Higher A1c levels are linked to diabetes complications, so reaching and maintaining your individual A1c goal is important if you have diabetes. A normal A1c level is below 5.7%, a level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. Within the 5.7% to 6.4% prediabetes range, the higher your A1c, the greater your risk is for developing type 2 diabetes.  The goal for most people with diabetes is 7% or less.  The chart listed below can give you an idea of what your average daily blood sugar is running based on what your A1c is.  The A1c is an important tool for managing diabetes, but it doesn’t replace regular blood sugar testing at home. Let us help you manage your diabetes. Schedule an appointment with us today 270-526-9652. You can also check out our website at www.ghaythhammadmd.com.