Several factors can raise your A1C levels, including:
High Blood Sugar Levels: Consistently high blood glucose levels over time will increase your A1C.
Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes can lead to elevated A1C levels.
Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions like anemia, kidney failure, liver disease, and blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia) can affect A1C accuracy.
Medications: Some medications, such as opioids and certain HIV drugs, can falsely increase A1C levels.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also impact A1C levels.
If you suspect any of these factors are affecting your A1C, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.