Health guide
Diabetes and blood sugar: HbA1c, fasting sugar, and prevention
Diabetes develops quietly. Blood sugar can sit high for years before symptoms appear, doing slow damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart. The good news: it is one of the easiest conditions to catch early with two simple, cheap blood tests, and prediabetes is often reversible.
Reviewed by Dr. Vishal Singh, Lab DirectorUpdated
Warning signs of high blood sugar
- Excessive thirst and a dry mouth
- Passing urine more often, especially at night
- Unexplained tiredness or weight loss
- Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
- Blurred vision
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
HbA1c vs fasting sugar
Fasting blood sugar is a snapshot after an overnight fast. HbA1c is the bigger picture: it reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months and does not need fasting. Most people are screened with both; HbA1c is the standard for diagnosis and for tracking control.
Who should get tested
Test if you have any warning signs, a family history of diabetes, are overweight, have high blood pressure, or are over 40. If you are already diagnosed, HbA1c is usually checked every 3-6 months.
This guide is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Always discuss your symptoms and results with a doctor.
Tests that help
Recommended panel
SugarShield Basic
8 biomarkers in one panel
Frequently asked questions
What HbA1c level means diabetes?
Below 5.7% is normal, 5.7-6.4% is prediabetes, and 6.5% or above suggests diabetes. Your doctor will confirm with a repeat or a fasting test.
Is fasting needed for HbA1c?
No. HbA1c reflects a 2-3 month average, so it can be done any time. Fasting sugar does need an 8-12 hour fast.
Not sure where to start?
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