Beginners Guide to hemoglobin A1c test

Hemoglobin A1c test information

The most common and effective way for medical professionals to determine if you suffer from diabetes is with a test called Hemoglobin A1c. The hemoglobin A1c test is a simple blood test that measures the average amount of glucose in the tested person’s blood stream. The Hemoglobin A1c test can determine the range of glucose over a 3 month period.

What does the Hemoglobin A1c test measure?

Glucose or Sugar in the bloodstream attaches to the hemoglobin in red blood cells. This process is called glycosylation. Once the glucose attaches it’s self to the red blood cell, it will remain attached for the duration of the blood cells lifespan. Each Red blood cell has a life span of three months. The A1c Blood test will measures the amount of glucose that is attached to each red blood cell. The results of your blood test will be giving in percentages.

Why is the importance of the Hemoglobin A1c test?

Major diabetes studies, have concluded that by lowering the hemoglobin A1c number in your bloodstream can prevent and delay the serious side effects of diabetes. These side effects include but are not limited to blindness, kidney, and nerve disease. Also evidence supports that by reducing the hemoglobin A1c levels by any amount will increase the chances of staying healthily.

How often should I take the A1c test?

People who suffer from diabetes should receive an A1c test every 3 to 6 months. People who have higher levels of blood sugar should get tested more often to insure their efforts are decreasing their levels of blood sugars to the optimal levels.

What does the A1c test results mean?

The hemoglobin A1c goal for people with diabetes is less than 7 percent. A change in treatment is almost always needed if a person’s hemoglobin A1c is over 8 percent. But, if people with diabetes can lower their hemoglobin A1c number by any amount, they will improve their chances of staying healthy.

How is the A1c test preformed?

There is no need to drive and wait at your doctor’s office. With MOBILEMedCheck, the hemoglobin A1c test can be taken any time at your home or office. The test results will have the same accuracy as if you were at the doctor’s office.