HbA1c

What is HbA1c?

HbA1c stands for glycosylated hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. When glucose is present in the blood, a portion of it binds to this hemoglobin. This binding is called glycosylation, and the result is HbA1c.

Because red blood cells live for an average of about three months, the HbA1c value reflects the blood sugar level over that entire period. This makes it much more reliable than a single fasting glucose measurement, which only provides a snapshot. A higher HbA1c value means that, on average, more glucose was present in the blood over the past months.

The result is expressed in millimoles per mole (mmol/mol) or sometimes as a percentage. Your doctor or laboratory will indicate which reference values ​​apply and what your personal result means.

Why is HbA1c measured?

HbA1c is requested for various reasons. The most common is to establish or rule out type 2 diabetes mellitus. In case of doubt, a doctor usually combines this measurement with other blood tests, such as a fasting glucose determination.

For people who have already been diagnosed with diabetes, HbA1c serves as a regular indicator of the quality of blood sugar control. Well-controlled blood sugar reduces the risk of damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs. If the value remains too high, the treating physician may adjust medication, prescribe a different drug, or revise lifestyle advice.

In addition, the test is useful for people with an increased risk of diabetes, for example, those who are overweight, have a positive family history, or have previously diagnosed prediabetes. Early detection offers the opportunity to slow down or prevent further deterioration through lifestyle changes.

What do abnormal values ​​mean?

Elevated HbA1c value

A result that is too high suggests that blood sugar levels have been structurally too high over the past few months. Possible causes include an irregular eating pattern, insufficient exercise, improper or incorrect use of prescribed medication, or an underlying condition that disrupts blood sugar regulation.

Prolonged elevated blood sugar increases the risk of serious complications. These include damage to the small blood vessels of the kidneys and eyes, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and nerve damage. That is precisely why it is so important to keep the HbA1c value within the target range agreed upon with your doctor.

Low or normal HbA1c value

A value within the normal range indicates a balanced blood sugar system. This can be the result of a healthy lifestyle with regular meals, sufficient exercise, and a balanced diet. For people taking medication, a good result indicates that the treatment is working.

A particularly low value in someone using blood sugar-lowering agents may, in some cases, actually indicate blood sugar that is too low, also known as hypoglycemia. This is something to always discuss with your doctor.

Symptoms that may indicate disturbed blood sugar

The body sometimes gives clear signals when blood sugar levels are structurally too high. Excessive thirst and increased urine production are classic complaints. The body attempts to eliminate excess glucose through the kidneys, which causes fluid loss and intensifies the feeling of thirst.

Furthermore, fatigue, a persistent feeling of hunger despite eating enough, a dry mouth, and dry or flaky skin may occur. Some people also notice that minor wounds heal more slowly or that they suffer more frequently from infections of the skin, nails, or urinary tract. This is because high blood sugar weakens the body's immune system.

Blurred vision or changes in the visual field can also be an indication. The eye is sensitive to fluctuating blood sugar levels. If you recognize one or more of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further examination.

When should you have your HbA1c measured?

There is no fixed age limit or specific reason required to have your HbA1c determined. People with diabetes usually have the measurement performed every three to six months, depending on the stability of their blood sugar and the agreements with their healthcare provider.

Do you not yet have diabetes but are unsure if your blood sugar is in order? Then a single measurement can already provide a lot of clarity. Especially with symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or excessive thirst, it is worthwhile to check your HbA1c. You can have this tested easily and quickly via Zample, without having to visit a GP first.