What is a Good A1C Number?
Good diabetes blood sugar control can be measured by the A1C test. This test, in correlation with your log book of blood sugar testing numbers, gives the doctor an accurate view of your average blood sugar number for the last three months. Taken regularly, A1C numbers can show trends of better, or worsening, blood sugar control.
A1C Test
The test is a simple blood test much like any other blood test you've ever had. There is minimal invasiveness and the results do not take long to get back. There can be some pain or swelling at the needle prick site, but there is relatively low risk of complications. The A1C test can be taken at any time of the day and without any prep work. The test should be taken at least twice a year.
A1C Numbers
The A1C number shows the average blood sugar reading over the last three months. The higher the average blood glucose reading the higher the A1C number test result. A high A1C number can start to signify higher chances for diabetes related complications such as cardiac trouble, vision problems, kidney trouble and circulatory issues.
A Good A1C Number
A1C results can range from 6 or less to 7 or higher. The goal is to have a reading of 7 or less. A reading of 7 means that the average blood sugar over the past three months has been around 170 with lower numbers meaning an even lower average. Readings of 6 or less are normal while over 7 indicate a need for stricter monitoring and diabetes management.
A1C Comparison to Self-Test Numbers
A1C numbers can be compared to self-testing glucose readings. An A1C number of 6 is an average of 135 blood sugar reading while a 12 or higher shows an average over 345. Other ranges include:
- 7 A1C is 170 average
- 8 A1C is 205 average
- 9 A1C is 240 average
- 10 A1C is 275 average
- 11 A1C is 310 average
This article appeared Aug. 28, 2010 at Suite 101.
Published by Tina Samuels - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle
Author of three books, Tina Samuels is also the owner of Turtle Trax Hobbies. She s been a freelance writer for 20 years and a small business owner for three. Two of her three books are slated for a Spring 2... View profile
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