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Is Hba1c test accurate when hypo?

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pinewood

Well-Known Member
Messages
792
Location
London
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
Very weird question but my latest A1C came back lower than I expected (based on my Dexcom data) and I just wondered if the fact I was having a hypo when my blood was taken may have influenced the results? Does anyone know?

I know A1C measures your average blood sugar levels over the previous 3 months but I just wondered if the fact I was hypo at the time of my blood being taken could have meant the results are less accurate.

Thanks!
 
I don't think so, its testing different things altogether....basically testing how much glucose has stuck to the hemoglobin molecule as opposed to the level of glucose in the blood stream at that second in time....

ultimately the HbA1c isn't really an accurate test anyway.....its just a guide........

its more the day to day control thats more critical I believe....
 
It's a good question @pinewood but am inclined to agree with @novorapidboi26 that the test measures the average plasma glucose concentration over 2-3 months, so your current BG level is not accounted for in the test.

Hope the nurse gave you a lolly after this :)
 
We quite often see posts (especially T2s LC'ing) asking if they've mucked up their hba1c as they fell off the wagon last night and got their blood test the next morning.................usual response is as above.........but has it actually been scientifically confirmed?

@pinewood what sort of nice surprise/difference are we talking about here? Any chance the dex may have been reading a point or 2 higher most of the time?
 
What they said. Is that the first A1C you've done after using the Dexcom? If so it may tell you the Dexcom's prediction runs high compared to the real thing. That doesn't mean that the Dexcom's blood sugar readings run high mind you.
 
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