Preparing for HbA1c — Patient information · Ruqelo Health
Diagnostics·Diagnostics
Preparing for HbA1c
Ruqelo Health — Take to your appointment
Educational summary — not medical advice. Discuss with your healthcare provider.
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
The HbA1c test is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months. It is used to diagnose diabetes and to see how well your diabetes is being managed. The name 'HbA1c' stands for 'haemoglobin A1c' – haemoglobin is the part of your red blood cells that carries oxygen, and the test checks how much sugar is attached to it.
Key facts
You do not need to fast (stop eating) before an HbA1c test.
The result is given as a percentage; a normal level is below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%) for most people.
HbA1c reflects your average blood sugar over several weeks, not just a single moment.
Yes, the HbA1c test is very common. Millions of people have it each year to screen for diabetes or to monitor their blood sugar control.
Anyone can receive an HbA1c test, especially people who have symptoms of diabetes, are at risk for diabetes, or already have diabetes and need to check their management.
Symptoms
Questions about this article
Call emergency services immediately if you notice:
If the person is extremely confused, drowsy, or unconscious
Breathing that smells fruity (like acetone)
Rapid, deep breathing without reason
See a doctor urgently (same day) if you notice:
⚠Blood sugar level very high (above 300 mg/dL or 16.7 mmol/L) and not coming down
⚠Vomiting or severe nausea with high blood sugar
⚠Signs of infection (fever, pain) that are getting worse
Common symptoms
Feeling very thirsty more often than usual
Urinating (peeing) a lot, especially at night
Feeling tired and low on energy
Symptoms in children
Sudden weight loss
Bedwetting or more frequent urination
Extreme hunger or thirst
Symptoms in older adults
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or sores
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
Causes
Main causes
High HbA1c is usually caused by diabetes (type 1 or type 2) or prediabetes.
It can also be raised by conditions that affect red blood cells (like anaemia or kidney disease).
Certain medications (like steroids) can temporarily increase HbA1c.
Risk factors
Being overweight or living with obesity
Being physically inactive
Having a family history of diabetes
Being over 40 years of age (or over 25 for people of South Asian, African-Caribbean, or certain ethnic backgrounds)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above – call your local emergency number immediately.
If your blood sugar levels are consistently very high despite following your treatment plan.
Book a routine appointment if:
If you have any of the common symptoms of diabetes for more than a week or two.
If you are due for a diabetes check-up (often every 3–6 months).
If your doctor or nurse has advised you to have an HbA1c test as part of a regular health check.
Many people have an HbA1c test without any symptoms – it is a routine part of health screening. If your result is higher than normal, your healthcare team will talk with you about what it means and the next steps. There is usually no need to worry, and support is available.
Diagnosis
The HbA1c test is used to diagnose diabetes. A single result of 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or higher suggests diabetes, though your doctor may repeat the test to confirm. For monitoring, the target for most people with diabetes is usually below 53 mmol/mol (7.0%), but your personal target will be set by your healthcare team.
Tests that may be done
HbA1c blood test (the main test discussed here)
Fasting blood glucose test (rarely used if HbA1c is unreliable)
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) – only sometimes for specific cases
What to expect at your appointment
The test is a simple blood draw from your arm or finger prick. You do not need to fast, but tell your doctor about any medicines or conditions that might affect red blood cells (like anaemia). The nurse or phlebotomist will take a small sample of blood. The result usually comes back in a few days. The test is safe and quick.
Treatment
Treatment for high HbA1c focuses on managing your blood sugar levels. This is usually done through a combination of healthy eating, physical activity, and sometimes medication. Your healthcare team will create a plan that works for you.
Self-care at home
Follow a balanced diet low in added sugars and refined carbohydrates
Get regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week)
Take any prescribed diabetes medicines exactly as directed
Monitor your own blood sugar levels if advised by your doctor
Medical treatments
Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend oral medicines or injectable therapies to help lower blood sugar. These are tailored to your needs. No specific names or doses are listed here – always follow your doctor’s advice.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not a treatment for a high HbA1c test itself. However, for some people with type 2 diabetes and severe obesity, weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) can improve blood sugar control. This is only considered after trying other approaches.
Living with this condition
Living with diabetes means checking your blood sugar regularly, taking care of your feet, attending routine check-ups, and making healthy choices every day. Managing your HbA1c is part of that. It is a lifelong journey, but most people can lead a full, active life with good support.
Lifestyle tips
Stay active – walk, swim, cycle, or do activities you enjoy
Eat regular meals with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
Drink water instead of sugary drinks
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet and regular exercise are the cornerstones of managing blood sugar. Eating at regular times and including fibre-rich foods can help keep your levels stable. Exercise helps your body use insulin better. Aim for a mix of aerobic (like brisk walking) and strength activities.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with diabetes can be stressful, and it is common to feel anxious, frustrated, or down at times. Your emotional health matters just as much as your physical health. Talking to your healthcare team or a counsellor can help. You are not alone.
Prevention
A high HbA1c (diabetes) cannot always be prevented, especially type 1 diabetes. However, for type 2 diabetes, you can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating well, and not smoking. If you have prediabetes (HbA1c between 42–47 mmol/mol), lifestyle changes can often prevent it from becoming diabetes.
Vaccines
There are no vaccines that prevent diabetes or directly affect HbA1c. However, people with diabetes are advised to have routine vaccinations (like flu and pneumonia) because they have a higher risk of infections.
Screening programmes
If you are over 40, or have risk factors like being overweight or having a family history of diabetes, your doctor may offer a screening HbA1c test every 1–3 years. This can catch high blood sugar early, when changes can make the biggest difference.
Complications
If left untreated
Heart disease and stroke
Kidney damage (nephropathy) that may lead to dialysis
Nerve damage (neuropathy) causing pain or numbness in feet
Eye damage (retinopathy) that can lead to blindness
Foot problems, including ulcers and infections that may require amputation
Long-term outlook
With good blood sugar control, regular check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, most people with diabetes can prevent or delay complications. Many people live long, healthy lives. Your healthcare team will work with you to keep your HbA1c in a safe range and support you every step of the way.
Find support
International organisations
International Diabetes Federation (IDF)
World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes
Local organisations
Diabetes UK · United Kingdom
National Health Service (NHS) – Diabetes · United Kingdom
Helplines
Diabetes UK Helpline
0345 123 2399
United Kingdom
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
