is a1c of 14 dangerous

An A1C level of 14% is considered extremely high and indicates poorly controlled diabetes. Here’s what it means:

• Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

An A1C of 14% corresponds to an estimated average glucose (eAG) of approximately 355 mg/dL, which is far above the target range for most people with diabetes (typically below 7% or 154 mg/dL).

Risks of High A1C:

• Short-term risks: Severe hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and other acute complications.
• Long-term risks: Increased risk of diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems.

What to Do:

• Consult a healthcare provider immediately to adjust your diabetes management plan.
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly and follow prescribed treatments.
• Lifestyle changes: Focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication adherence.

An A1C of 14% requires urgent medical attention to prevent serious health complications.