HbA1c, Glycated Hemoglobin in Hyderabad

HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)

Test Overview

Owing to chronic stress, unhealthy eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes has emerged as a significant health challenge globally. As per recent estimates, over 643 million people will have diabetes globally by 2030.

The top HbA1c tests are available in Jubilee Hills, Kukatpally, Madhapur, AS Rao Nagar, kondapur.

With the incidence of diabetes on the rise globally, it is essential for individuals, especially those residing in countries like India, to understand the significance of regular blood sugar monitoring. The HbA1c blood test is one of the primary diagnostic tests that enables individuals to monitor trends in their blood sugar levels over time, allowing for timely intervention when necessary.

Early detection of elevated blood sugar levels facilitates proactive measures such as lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, and medication management, thereby reducing the risk of developing diabetes and its associated complications like kidney failure, vision impairment, poor cardiovascular health, and stroke.

What is the HbA1c test price in Hyderabad?

The HbA1c blood test is generally affordable. However, understanding the key factors that impact the HbA1c test price in Hyderabad can assist you well in navigating your healthcare journey. Variations in the cost can be attributed to the following factors:

• Lab Quality: The quality of the lab you choose for your HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad impacts the price. Labs known for their international testing standards and credibility may have slightly higher prices.
• Demand and Availability: Like other services, prices of HbA1c blood test fluctuate based on demand and availability. In areas where the demand is high, the HbA1c test price in Hyderabad could be slightly higher.
• Inclusions/ Additional charges: The price of an HbA1c test in Hyderabad generally includes various elements such as the doctor's professional fee, laboratory charges, and additional costs if you opt for home sample collection. It's recommended to clarify what's included in the final cost before paying.
• Deals/ Discounts: Some healthcare providers might offer discounts or deals that could lower the overall expense. Always check if any offers are available before booking your test.

When deciding where to conduct your HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad, keep these factors in mind in order to make a well-informed decision aligned with your budget. Remember prioritising your health is the key to overall well-being.

At Apollo 24|7, we are committed to providing quality healthcare services at competitive prices. If you have any doubts or concerns about the blood sugar test HbA1c, don't hesitate to consult with your family physician.

Learn everything you need to know about the HbA1c blood test in the upcoming sections.

All About HbA1c test in Hyderabad

The HbA1c blood test is a vital diagnostic test that helps identify, monitor and manage diabetes and other associated conditions. This blood test also helps ascertain the risk of diabetes in people who don't have the condition yet. The importance of the HbA1c blood sugar test is widely recognised by healthcare professionals in preventing diabetes-related complications.

What is an HbA1c test?

The HbA1c blood test, commonly known as a glycated or glycosylated haemoglobin test, is frequently used to measure the amount of blood sugar or glucose attached to haemoglobin. Haemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Essentially, this test provides an average of blood sugar levels over the preceding 2-3 months, making it crucial for early diagnosis of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Here are some key aspects of this test:

• The HbA1c blood test is different from simple fasting or post-meal blood sugar test. It doesn't require fasting and can be done at any time of the day.
• This test is especially important for people with diabetes as it helps the doctor monitor their condition and adjust medication if necessary.
• The results of the blood sugar test HbA1c are given in percentage. A higher percentage indicates higher levels of glucose attached to haemoglobin.

With advancements in healthcare facilities, it's fairly easy to get an HbA1c blood test done. For instance, you can book an HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad or any other city at your convenience through various health service providers like Apollo 24|7.

Signs You Need an HbA1c test 

Recognising signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for an HbA1c blood test is important for early detection and proper management of diabetes. Here are some signs that might signal the need for an HbA1c blood test:

• Excessive Thirst and Hunger: Feeling unusually thirsty or hungry even after a proper diet can signal high blood glucose levels, indicating the necessity for a blood sugar test.
• Unexplained Weight Loss and Chronic Fatigue: Rapid weight loss without any significant change in diet or exercise regimen could point towards high blood sugar levels. Additionally, feeling unusually tired throughout the day is a clear sign that you should consider getting tested for elevated blood sugar levels.
• Sores that Heal Slowly: Slow-healing sores and wounds can also indicate high blood sugar levels and might necessitate the need for an HbA1c blood test.
• Blurred Vision: Increased blood sugar levels can disrupt fluid balance in the eyes, resulting in blurred vision.
• Dry Skin: Persistent dry skin despite regular moisturising could be a symptom of high blood sugar.
  Numbness or Tingling in your hands or feet: These sensations could be signs of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels.
• More infections than usual: Diabetes weakens the immune system, making people more prone to infections. This can lead to frequent bouts of illness.
• Frequent Changes in Medication: If your doctor frequently changes your medication due to unstable blood sugar levels, it might be time for an HbA1c blood test.

Who Can Get an HbA1c test?

Anyone can get an HbA1c blood test if they suspect that their blood sugar levels might be causing health issues. Here are some specific groups of people for whom the HbA1c blood sugar test could be beneficial:

• People with Diabetes: For individuals diagnosed with diabetes, regular HbA1c testing is indispensable for effective management. Monitoring HbA1c values provides crucial insights into blood sugar control, aiding in treatment adjustments and reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
• Pre-diabetes Individuals: If your doctor suspects that you’re in the pre-diabetes stage, then an HbA1c blood test may be recommended. It helps detect the risk of developing diabetes earlier. Early detection allows for timely interventions, such as lifestyle changes and preventive measures to mitigate the development of full-blown diabetes.
• High-Risk Individuals: Individuals at high risk due to factors like obesity, hypertension, or a family history of diabetes benefit greatly from the HbA1c blood test. Detecting diabetes early through this test allows prompt intervention, enhancing the likelihood of preventing or delaying complications associated with the condition.
• Individuals with High Cholesterol Levels: High blood sugar can worsen cholesterol and increase heart disease risk. Regular HbA1c blood tests are crucial for comprehensive cardiovascular health management in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
• Pregnant Women: Pregnancy sometimes triggers gestational diabetes. Timely identification and management of this condition are critical for the health of the mother and the foetus. An HbA1c blood test can help monitor and manage this scenario efficiently.
• Children and Teens: Children and teens who are overweight or have a family history of diabetes might need the blood sugar test HbA1c to check for diabetes risk. This helps to see if they might develop diabetes and allows for crucial dietary and lifestyle changes to avert the risk.

If you notice any of the symptoms, or if you belong to the high-risk category for diabetes, you should discuss your concerns with your doctor and consider undergoing the HbA1c blood test. However, it's important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other health conditions. The blood sugar test HbA1c can provide an accurate diagnosis, enabling appropriate and timely treatment. The upcoming section gives detailed information about the tests included in the HbA1c blood sugar test!

Which Tests Are Included in an HbA1c test in Hyderabad?

An HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad consists of two primary tests: the HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin), and the Estimated Average Glucose (EAG). Both these tests provide crucial information about your long-term blood sugar control.

HbA1c, Glycated Haemoglobin

This is one of the primary components of the HbA1c blood test. This vital test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, offering a comprehensive understanding of your long-term sugar control. It does so by assessing the amount of glucose attached to your red blood cells' haemoglobin. This information is not just critical for diagnosing diabetes but also for monitoring its progression and guiding treatment plans.

Estimated Average Glucose (EAG)

Alongside the HbA1c test, another metric called the Estimated Average Glucose (EAG) is calculated in the blood sugar test HbA1c. The estimated average glucose, or EAG, provides additional insight into the average levels of blood sugar over a similar period i.e. 2 to 3 months.

• Calculated based on the results of the HbA1c test, it offers a broader perspective on blood sugar control compared to daily glucose readings.
• A key advantage of the EAG is its ability to translate complex HbA1c percentages into understandable average blood glucose levels.
• The EAG is particularly useful for tracking diabetes progression, assessing how effectively treatments are working, and making lifestyle or medication adjustments in order to improve blood sugar levels.

Decoding HbA1c test Report

Understanding the range and parameters of the HbA1c blood test is essential for early detection of diabetes. Regular checks and monitoring of the range in your HbA1c blood test report are essential to prevent complications associated with high blood sugar levels. In the following sections, we'll simplify the process of interpreting your HbA1c test report.

Range  

HbA1c Normal Value: Below 5.7%

Prediabetes: Between 5.7% to 6.4%

Diabetes: 6.5% and above

What do high values indicate?

An elevated result in your HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad or anywhere else serves as a crucial health alert. It suggests potential diabetes or improperly managed glucose levels calling for immediate intervention. Let's understand this in more detail:

• Diabetes: High values signal unregulated and poorly managed blood glucose levels. This scenario typically points towards diabetes or poorly controlled diabetes. For those already diagnosed with diabetes, an HbA1c level over 7% might indicate that the current treatment plan needs modification to better control blood sugar levels.
• Prediabetes: A range between 5.7% and 6.4% in your HbA1c blood test may suggest prediabetes. Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Individuals with prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Elevated HbA1c levels aren't just about sugar control; they can also lead to serious health complications. These can include heart disease, kidney disease, dementia, mental health issues, fatigue, and bone loss. Therefore, if you see high values in your blood sugar test HbA1c test, it shouldn't be ignored. It's a clear sign that you might have potential diabetes or poorly managed blood glucose levels. Immediate medical attention and possible adjustments in treatment are required to lower these risk factors.

What do low values indicate?

Low HbA1c levels aren't always a good sign. Excessively low levels could indicate a high risk of hypoglycaemia or other health problems due to overly aggressive management of blood sugar levels.

• Excessive Diet Control: Low HbA1c levels might be suggestive of excessive diet control. When an individual excessively restricts their food intake, it may lead to an abnormal decrease in HbA1c levels.
• Overuse Or Misuse of Antidiabetic Drugs: Overuse or misuse of antidiabetic drugs is another factor that can cause low levels of blood sugar test HbA1c.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as hemolytic anaemia or haemorrhage can also lower HbA1c levels. These conditions decrease the lifespan of red blood cells, thus reducing the opportunity for glucose binding and leading to lower HbA1c values.

Understanding these results is crucial for diagnosing diabetes and initiating appropriate treatment. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for further evaluation and management based on individual conditions and factors.

When to consult a doctor?

Here are some scenarios when you should reach out to a doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment:

• Treatment Adjustment: If your HbA1c blood test level is above your target range (generally less than 7% for most adults with diabetes), discussing treatment adjustments with a doctor can help improve blood sugar control and limit potential complications.
• Prediabetes Or Increased Risk: If your HbA1c blood test level falls between 5.7% to 6.4%, this indicates prediabetes or an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart diseases. Medical advice would be required for lifestyle changes and monitoring.
• Unexplainable Symptoms: If you're experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, and these are in alignment with your test results, it's wise to seek medical advice promptly.

Self-diagnosis without medical expertise can cause further health issues. Always seek professional guidance to accurately interpret and address HbA1c blood sugar test levels. This not only ensures proper management of diabetes but also minimises the risks of complications.

Additional tests to be done (if any)

To gain a comprehensive understanding of your blood sugar control, additional tests might be needed based on your specific medical condition. Here are a few additional tests that could be recommended alongside the HbA1c test in Hyderabad or any other city:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test: As the name suggests, this test involves fasting overnight and measuring your blood sugar levels first thing in the morning. It helps doctors assess how well your body manages glucose when you're not eating.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): It aims to understand how well your body processes glucose and is particularly useful for diagnosing diabetes or prediabetes if your HbA1c levels are high. An OGTT also requires overnight fasting followed by drinking a sugary solution.
• Fructosamine Test: A fructosamine test is used for monitoring glucose control over shorter periods of about 2-3 weeks. It is particularly beneficial during pregnancy, or when conditions affecting the lifespan of red blood cells are present.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): The CBC test evaluates different components of your blood including red and white blood cells, and platelets, helping rule out conditions like anaemia or other disorders that could affect HbA1c levels. This is particularly useful for excessively low levels in the HbA1c blood test.
• Comprehensive Health Evaluation: Depending on your health status and medical history, doctors may suggest other tests such as kidney function tests, lipid profile checks, liver function tests etc., to understand any factors that might be influencing your blood sugar control.

These tests can provide a more detailed understanding of your overall health and guide better management strategies. Always consult with your doctor about these additional tests if your HbA1c levels are elevated.

Preparing for an HbA1c test in Hyderabad

Preparing for an HbA1c blood test is not at all complicated. The procedure involves a standard blood sample collection. It can be performed at any time of the day and presents minimal risks. In cities like Hyderabad, an HbA1c blood test can be easily booked for sample collection at home which makes the process highly accessible and easy.

How is an HbA1c test done?

The HbA1c blood test is quick and reasonably painless, making it a reliable tool in diabetes management. The test begins with a lab technician taking a small sample of your blood. This could either be done by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm or by pricking your finger with a lancet, depending on the method used in the laboratory. The collected blood sample is then sent for analysis where it will be tested for the presence and amount of glycosylated haemoglobin in the blood sample.       

Can I take an HbA1c test at any time of the day?

One of the most significant advantages of an HbA1c blood test is its convenience. Unlike other sugar tests where you might need to fast or prepare in some specific way, the HbA1c test requires no such preparations. No special preparation like fasting is required for this test. This means that you can take the HbA1c test at any time of the day that suits your schedule.

What are the risks of an HbA1c test?

The potential risks associated with an HbA1c blood sugar test are minimal and comparable to those encountered with routine blood tests. Occasionally, individuals may experience mild discomfort upon needle insertion or minor bruising thereafter. However, it's important to note that these effects typically diminish within a few hours.

Can I take the HbA1c test at home?

In recent times, there has been a rise in the demand for home-based HbA1c testing services. Now, individuals can easily book an HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad or any other city from the comfort of their own homes.

A qualified professional will visit your residence to collect the blood sample, ensuring convenience and safety. Healthcare facilities such as Apollo 24|7 offer these services, facilitating prompt and accurate diagnoses from the comfort of your home.

What is the Importance of the HbA1c test in Hyderabad?

The HbA1c blood sugar test plays a pivotal role in diabetes management by providing valuable insights into long-term blood sugar control, assessing the risk of complications, guiding treatment decisions, and empowering patients to take control of their health. Its importance lies in several aspects:

• Long-term Blood Sugar Management: The HbA1c blood sugar test differs from regular blood sugar tests. While a standard glucose test offers the status of your current sugar levels, the HbA1c provides a comprehensive status of your blood glucose control over 2-3 months. This broad outlook helps doctors assess how effectively diabetes is being managed.
• Risk Evaluation: The levels of HbA1c in your body signify the potential risk of developing complications linked with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve disorders. By consistently monitoring HbA1c, doctors can spot people at elevated risk early on and take preventive measures.
• Treatment Modification: The outcomes of the blood sugar test HbA1c guide decisions related to treatment, including changes in medication, diet, and lifestyle. For those living with prediabetes and diabetes, reaching and maintaining target HbA1c levels is critical for lowering the risk of complications and enhancing long-term health results.

Diseases diagnosed by HbA1c test

Primarily, the HbA1c blood test is used to diagnose diabetes and prediabetes. Early recognition of these conditions can prevent further complications.

Elevated levels of blood sugar in the HbA1c test could also point towards risks and complications such as:

• Kidney damage
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Vision Loss or Blindness
• Diabetic neuropathy: Nerve damage due to high blood sugar levels, most commonly affecting your hands, feet, arms and legs.
• Gastroparesis: A condition where your stomach cannot properly digest food due to paralysis of stomach muscles

Additional tests may be needed to further ascertain such complications.       

How is an HbA1c test important for pregnant women?

During pregnancy, it's vital for expecting mothers to monitor their blood glucose regularly since pregnancy can trigger gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can complicate delivery and raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes after pregnancy. Hence, pregnant women should undergo an HbA1c blood sugar test to safeguard their own health and the well-being of their foetus.

The test offers valuable insights into blood sugar control over time, helping to manage gestational diabetes effectively and reduce potential risks during and after pregnancy.

How is an HbA1c test important for prediabetics & diabetics?

By providing valuable data on blood sugar control, the HbA1c test plays an indispensable role in managing and caring for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Here are some reasons why the HbA1c blood sugar test is crucial for individuals living with such conditions:

• Monitoring Blood Glucose Control: Diabetic individuals should undergo regular HbA1c testing to monitor their blood sugar control. This also helps evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment plans.
• Diagnosing Prediabetes and Diabetes: The HbA1c blood test is vital for identifying pre diabetics—persons with higher-than-average blood sugar levels. These individuals have an increased risk of developing diabetes. Early detection of diabetes can lead to timely preventative measures.
• Setting Treatment Goals: The HbA1c blood test assists healthcare professionals and diabetic patients in establishing target blood sugar levels. These targets consider individual health factors, age, and past glucose control success. They're not static but may alter over time to maximise diabetes management and minimise the risk of complications.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Both prediabetic and diabetic patients can use the results of the HbA1c blood sugar test to guide changes in their lifestyle, such as diet modification and exercise routines that can improve blood sugar control and overall health outcomes.

How frequently should you undergo an HbA1c test?

The frequency of the HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad could vary depending on individual health conditions, treatment regimens, and other risk factors.

• For people with diabetes: If your blood sugar levels are stable and within your target range, it's recommended to undergo the HbA1c blood test twice a year, i.e., every six months. However, if your blood sugar levels fluctuate or are not within the desired range, you should have this test four times a year on a quarterly basis. This also applies if you have recently changed your treatment plan.
• For those with prediabetes: If you've been diagnosed with prediabetes, it's advisable to get an HbA1c blood test at least once a year. However, if you're at high risk of developing diabetes or are actively trying to lower your blood sugar levels, consider getting tested twice a year.
• Pregnant Individuals: Expecting mothers may consider more frequent monitoring of their HbA1c levels, possibly on a monthly basis, to oversee blood sugar levels for the optimal development and health of their foetus.

Regular monitoring of HbA1c levels is crucial for people with diabetes or prediabetes. It's always best to consult with your doctor for personalised advice.

Foods and supplements to Maintain Optimal HbA1c levels

A balanced diet plays a critical role in maintaining optimal HbA1c levels, which is why it's important to include foods that can help regulate your blood sugar. Here's a list of foods and supplements that may contribute positively to your HbA1c levels:

Foods For Blood Sugar Management:

• Whole Grains: Rich in fibre, whole grains like brown rice, oats and whole-grain bread assist in slowing down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream, resulting in steady blood sugar levels.
• Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and fenugreek leaves are full of fibre and thus help regulate blood sugar.
• Lean Proteins: Foods like chicken breast, tofu, and fish aid in controlling blood sugar as they have minimal effect on blood glucose levels.
• Fruits: Berries, cherries, peaches, apricots, apples, oranges, and pears can be beneficial as they contain high amounts of fibre and are less likely to spike your blood sugar levels.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts and flaxseeds are not only low in digestible carbohydrates but also high in fibre and healthy fats which can improve heart health.

Supplements For Blood Sugar Management:

• Magnesium: Low magnesium levels can worsen insulin resistance. Including magnesium supplements can help maintain good glucose control.
• Chromium: This mineral enhances the action of insulin. Studies suggest that chromium supplements may improve HbA1c levels.

Adopting a balanced diet inclusive of these food items and supplements can significantly enhance your blood sugar levels. Furthermore, managing stress, exercising regularly and getting adequate sleep are essential factors for maintaining optimal HbA1c levels.

Always consult a doctor or a nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet or introducing new supplements, especially if you have diabetes or other health conditions.

Booking the HbA1c test Online

Online healthcare services are highly convenient, particularly for elderly individuals, pregnant women, and people with limited mobility. Booking your HbA1c blood test in Hyderabad through Apollo 24|7 is easy and only requires a few simple steps.

How to book an HbA1c test on Apollo 24|7? 

• Visit Apollo 24|7 Website or App: Start by navigating the Apollo 24|7 website or download their user-friendly mobile app.
• Search for HbA1c Test: In the search box, type 'HbA1c Test' to find the dedicated page for this test.
• Choose a Suitable Timing and Location: After selecting the 'HbA1c Test', you can pick a convenient date and time for blood sample collection. Most centres offer home sample collection at no extra cost.
• Complete Your Booking: Enter all the required details and confirm your appointment to finish the booking.
• Wait For Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation message from Apollo 24|7 after your booking is successful.

How to download the full body checkup test report online on Apollo 24|7?

Once your blood sample has been collected and analysed, follow these steps to download your report:

• Check For Notification: You will get a notification from Apollo 24|7 when your results are ready.
• Visit Your Account: Log into your account on the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app.
• Go To Reports Section: After logging in, navigate to the 'Reports' section where all your test results are stored.
• Select 'HbA1c Blood Test': You will find your HbA1c test result ready for viewing.
• Download The Report: There will be an option available for you to download and save your report for future reference or to share with your doctor.