Prediabetes Often Has No Symptoms. Here’s the Blood Test That Can Find It

Prediabetes is common and serious, but it often has no clear symptoms. Left unchecked, it can lead to type 2 diabetes. You might feel healthy, eat fairly well, and have no reason to think anything is wrong. Your blood sugar could still be higher than it should be.

During Diabetes Awareness Month, it’s worth knowing your blood sugar numbers. An A1C blood test shows whether your average blood sugar falls in the normal, prediabetes, or diabetes range.

Someone can visit a ClearMedica clinic in Brandon feeling completely fine and learn through routine bloodwork that their A1C is in the prediabetes range. Finding it early gives you a chance to make changes before it develops into type 2 diabetes.

Key Takeaways

• Prediabetes often has no symptoms, so feeling fine doesn’t rule it out.
• An A1C test, often included in routine bloodwork, can help identify prediabetes.
• Early lifestyle changes can help return blood sugar levels to the normal range.

What Does an A1C Test Tell You?

An A1C test, also called HbA1c, is a common blood test that shows your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months.

The test measures how much sugar is attached to hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Since these cells stay in your body for several months, the A1C gives your provider a longer-term view than a single blood sugar reading.

The general A1C ranges are:

• Below 5.7%: Normal
• 7% to 6.4%: Prediabetes
• 5% or higher: Diabetes

Your provider won’t look at the A1C result alone. Your health history and other blood sugar tests may also be considered.

Who Should Get Tested?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening adults ages 35 to 70 who have overweight or obesity and don’t have symptoms of diabetes.

Your provider may also recommend testing based on other risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes or a history of diabetes during pregnancy.

If you’re unsure whether you should be tested, a Primary Care Doctor in Brandon, Winter Haven, or Lakeland can help you decide which tests are right for you.

What Happens During an A1C Test?

An A1C test requires a small blood sample from your finger or arm. You don’t need to fast before the test.

If your provider orders other blood sugar tests, such as a fasting blood glucose test, you may need to prepare differently. Ask about preparation before your bloodwork.

An A1C can also be included as part of routine bloodwork during a primary care visit.

What If Your Result Shows Prediabetes?

Many people avoid testing because they’re worried about the result. Finding prediabetes early is good news, because it gives you time to act. A prediabetes result doesn’t mean you have diabetes. With lifestyle changes like eating healthier and staying physically active, blood sugar levels can return to the normal range.

Your provider can review your results and suggest the next steps. If your A1C is in the diabetes range but you have no clear symptoms, another test may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

If weight management is part of your care plan, ClearSlim, ClearMedica’s medically supervised weight-loss program, may be an option to discuss with your provider.

How Can ClearCare Help With Ongoing Care?

Regular bloodwork and follow-up visits can help you keep track of your blood sugar over time.

At ClearMedica, ClearCare offers subscription-based primary care, not insurance. Depending on your plan, your membership includes routine bloodwork and follow-up visits. Ask your provider whether ClearCare meets your healthcare needs.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Check Your Blood Sugar

Prediabetes doesn’t always cause symptoms. An A1C test can help identify blood sugar concerns early so you can take steps to manage your health.

At ClearMedica, we provide primary care and ongoing support to help you stay on top of your health. Contact us to learn more about A1C testing and your care options.

FAQ

What should I do if my A1C is 6.0%?

Ask your doctor what the result means and what you should do next.

How often should I repeat my A1C if I have prediabetes?

The timing depends on your health and risk factors. Your provider can tell you when you should test again.

Can I eat normally before an A1C test?

Yes. You don’t need to fast before an A1C test.

Can weight loss help with prediabetes?

Yes. Losing excess weight can improve blood sugar and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Our service areas include Brandon, Lakeland, and Winter Haven.