How is the blood glucose level monitored?
The blood test that is mainly used to keep a check on your blood glucose level is called the HbA1c test. This test is commonly done every 2-6 months by your doctor or nurse. The HbA1c test measures a part of the red blood cells. Glucose in the blood attaches to part of the red blood cells. This part can be measured and gives a good indication of your average blood glucose level over the previous 1-3 months. Treatment aims to lower your HbA1c to below a target level which is usually agreed between you and your doctor. The target level is usually somewhere around 6.5%. If your HbA1c is above your target level then you may be advised to ‘step up’ treatment to keep your blood glucose level down (for example, by increasing the dose of your medication, etc). In general, the nearer your HbA1c level is to normal: • The better you are likely to feel, and • The less likely you are to develop complications from diabetes, such as heart disease, eye problems, kidney problems, feet problems, etc.
