what does high a1c mean
Asked by: HealthWatcher123
Community Answer
Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD
A high A1C level indicates that your average blood sugar levels have been elevated over the past 2-3 months. Here’s what the A1C ranges typically mean:
- Normal: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or above
A high A1C level (6.5% or higher) suggests that you may have diabetes or that your diabetes is not well-managed. Consistently high A1C levels are associated with an increased risk of diabetes-related complications, such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage.
If your A1C is high, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or both.