Key points about A1C testing
- A1C measures your average blood sugar over 2–3 months
- Helps diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes
- No fasting is required for this test
- It’s a quick, simple blood draw
- Used regularly for people with diabetes to check progress
Overview
The A1C test is a blood test that shows how well your body has been managing blood sugar over time. It reflects the percentage of sugar attached to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells.
Candidates for A1C testing
You may need an A1C test if you:
- Are at risk for diabetes
- Have signs or symptoms of high blood sugar
- Have already been diagnosed with diabetes and need regular monitoring
Preparation for A1C testing
No special preparation is required. You don’t have to fast or change your routine beforehand.
Risks for A1C testing
This is a low-risk test. Mild bruising or soreness at the needle site is possible, but serious issues are very rare.
Recovery from A1C testing
There’s no downtime. After the quick blood draw, you can go about your day as usual.