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Procedure for an A1c Test

The A1C test hemoglobin tests is used to help diagnose both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as well as monitor your diabetes management after diagnosis. The A1C blood test is designed to reflect your average level of blood glucose over the prior 2 to 3 months. This differs from the usual finger-stick style blood sugar testing which measures your blood glucose level at that particular time. It may be performed in your doctor's office or during routine blood work at a laboratory.

  1. A1C Facts

    • Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells which is responsible for carrying oxygen. Sugar remains attached to your hemoglobin for approximately 120 days, which allows the A1C test to measure the percentage of hemoglobin which is glycated (or coated in sugar). Higher A1C levels indicate poor control of blood sugars, which, if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, indicates an increased risk of diabetes-related complications. If you are insulin-dependant, expect to be required to take an A1C test approximately 4 times yearly. Non-insulin diabetics undergo the test approximately 2 times yearly. If you are not diabetic, your doctor may require the test at your yearly physical examination.

    The Procedure

    • Preparing for the test is quite simple. Unlike fasting blood sugar tests (another type of laboratory test to check your blood sugar) or finger sticks, A1C testing is unaffected by what you ate immediately prior. There are no required preparations; however, wearing a short sleeve shirt may make access to your arm easier for the lab technician who will be drawing your blood.

      The procedure itself is as simple as a blood test. Either your doctor or laboratory technician will draw your blood from a vein after cleansing the area with antiseptic. He will then place a tourniquet (usually an elastic band) around your upper arm to help locate an appropriate vein, insert the needle into your vein (usually either on the back of your hand or inside of your elbow) and collect blood into a vial. Afterward, the needle and tourniquet will be removed and the site of the blood test will either be bandaged or covered with cotton to halt any bleeding. The test only takes a few minutes.

      There are very few risks associated with the A1C test. It is generally considered safe both for children and for adults. Possible risks of the test include lightheadedness, fainting and discomfort caused by your technician trying to locate a vein. You may also experience light bruising after your A1C test; this normally dissipates after a couple of days.

    Results

    • According to Clinical Diabetes Journals, people without diabetes generally have A1C levels between 4 and 6 percent while diabetics should aim for A1C levels lower than 7 percent. If your A1C is lower than 6, your health risks are low and your blood sugar level control is considered to be very excellent. Patients with levels higher than 10 percent are considered to have poor blood sugar controls and significant health risks (such as kidney disease, heart disease and eye problems).

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