Hemoglobin A1c Test: What It Shows and What It Does Not
Quick answer: Hemoglobin A1c shows your average blood sugar over roughly the past three months. It is used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes and to follow diabetes care. It does not show day to day swings.
About this test
The test measures the percent of hemoglobin in your red blood cells that has sugar attached. Because red cells live about three months, the result reflects your average blood sugar over that time.
Why is it ordered?
- Screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
- Following blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
- Part of a routine health check.
What results may show
- A result in the prediabetes range or the diabetes range, which your provider confirms with a repeat test or other tests.
- Whether blood sugar has been running higher than normal over recent months.
What this test may not show
- It does not show daily highs and lows or low blood sugar episodes.
- Anemia, blood loss, recent transfusion, kidney disease and some hemoglobin variants can make results unreliable.
- A single result does not diagnose diabetes by itself. Your provider confirms it.
- An abnormal result does not always mean treatment is needed.
How to prepare
- No fasting or special preparation is needed.
- Tell your provider about anemia or blood conditions.
Where you can get this test
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Wellness Panel | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, vitamin D, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
| Comprehensive Health Panel, Women’s | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, vitamin D, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
| Comprehensive Health Panel, Man | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, total testosterone, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
A doctor’s visit is not required to order. Order online, then visit our Buffalo Grove or Lake Zurich location for the sample. Review results with your own healthcare provider.
Related tests
Frequently asked questions
What does A1c measure?
The share of your hemoglobin that has sugar attached, which reflects average blood sugar over about three months.
Do I need to fast for an A1c?
No. It can be drawn at any time of day.
Can anemia change my A1c?
Yes. Anemia and some blood conditions can make A1c less accurate.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Rodion Levin, FNP-C, Founder and Medical Director. This page is for general education. It does not diagnose a condition or replace advice from your healthcare provider.
