what can cause a high a1c
Asked by: GlucoseWatcher
Community Answer
Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD
A high A1C level can be caused by several factors, including:
- Poor Diabetes Management: Inconsistent blood sugar control over time can lead to elevated A1C levels.
- Diet and Lifestyle: High intake of sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods, lack of physical activity, and stress can contribute to higher blood sugar levels.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like severe anemia, kidney failure, liver disease, or blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia) can affect A1C accuracy.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as opioids or HIV medications, may falsely increase A1C levels.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also impact A1C results.
If you have a high A1C, consult your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a management plan.