HbA1c Levels: Should My Mom See a Doctor at 6.6%?

Q: HbA1c Levels: Should My Mom See a Doctor at 6.6%?

Hello： Your mother's "glycated hemoglobin" has increased by 0.7 over the past eight months, which should not be taken lightly. <br>It is recommended to consult with a specialist in endocrinology. <br>It would also be beneficial for her to receive education from a nutritionist for

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 6.6?

Doctor, my mother is 58 years old.
Last May, her HbA1c was 5.9%.
Since then, she hasn't seen a doctor or taken any medication, nor has she made any special dietary changes until recently, when she started controlling her diet and monitoring her blood sugar over the past two weeks.
Her postprandial blood sugar levels have been around 99-120 mg/dL, and her fasting levels have been between 90-108 mg/dL.
However, today (January 16), her HbA1c was 6.6%.
Should she see a doctor now, or should she continue with dietary control to see if her HbA1c can decrease? Thank you, doctor.

Ms. Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/16

Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine

Hello: Your mother's "glycated hemoglobin" has increased by 0.7 over the past eight months, which should not be taken lightly.
It is recommended to consult with a specialist in endocrinology.
It would also be beneficial for her to receive education from a nutritionist for better outcomes.

Reply Date: 2016/01/16

More Info

Understanding HbA1c levels is crucial for managing diabetes and preventing complications associated with high blood sugar levels. In your mother's case, her HbA1c level of 6.6% indicates that her average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months have been higher than the normal range. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) defines normal HbA1c levels as below 5.7%, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% are considered prediabetes. An HbA1c of 6.5% or higher is diagnostic for diabetes.

Given that your mother’s HbA1c level has increased from 5.9% to 6.6%, it suggests a trend towards worsening glycemic control. Although her recent blood sugar readings (postprandial and fasting) appear to be within a reasonable range, the HbA1c level is a more comprehensive indicator of her blood sugar management over time.
In terms of whether she should see a doctor, it is advisable for her to do so. While dietary changes and lifestyle modifications are essential and can significantly impact blood sugar levels, a healthcare professional can provide a more tailored approach. They can assess her overall health, consider any other risk factors, and determine if medication is necessary to help manage her blood sugar levels effectively.

Here are some reasons why consulting a doctor is recommended:
1. Comprehensive Assessment: A healthcare provider can evaluate her overall health status, including any potential complications from elevated blood sugar levels, such as cardiovascular issues, neuropathy, or retinopathy.

2. Personalized Management Plan: A doctor can help create a personalized management plan that includes dietary recommendations, physical activity, and possibly medication if necessary. This plan can be more effective than self-management alone.

3. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments can help monitor her progress and make adjustments to her treatment plan as needed. This is particularly important as her HbA1c level has risen.

4. Education: A healthcare provider can offer education on diabetes management, including how to monitor blood sugar levels, recognize signs of high or low blood sugar, and understand the importance of adherence to dietary recommendations.

5. Preventive Care: Early intervention can prevent the progression of diabetes and reduce the risk of complications. The sooner she receives guidance, the better her chances of maintaining her health.

In the meantime, continuing with dietary control and regular monitoring of her blood sugar levels is an excellent step. Encourage her to focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods and sugars. Regular physical activity is also beneficial for blood sugar control.

In summary, while dietary changes are a positive step, it is essential for your mother to consult a healthcare professional to ensure comprehensive management of her blood sugar levels and overall health. This proactive approach can help her achieve better control and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

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