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The tests you do at home show your blood sugar level at that moment. The A1c test shows your average blood sugar level over the past two or three months. It’s the best way to see how well your diabetes is controlled.
It usually takes two to three months to see changes in your A1c. So, you may get this test two to four times a year, depending on how well your Treatment Plan is working. The A1c blood test is usually done at your doctor’s office.
The American Diabetes Association recommends reaching an A1c of less than 7%. You and your doctor will set a goal that’s right for you. If your levels rise above your personal goal, you may need to change your diabetes medicine, or add new medicine and review your Treatment Plan.
Use the chart below to see how an average daily blood sugar number might compare to an A1c number. (Note that these blood sugar numbers are for tests done in a lab. If you test your blood sugar at home, your numbers may be a little lower.)
Reaching an A1c goal of 7% or less is essential, since every 1% increase above 6% raises the risk of diabetes-related health problems, like stroke, heart attack, blindness, and loss of limbs.
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