I went to the hospital lab this afternoon to get blood drawn for my HbA1c test, anticipating my endocrinology appointment in a couple weeks. (We’re going to Wyoming next week, and I hate having to rush the results.)
For those who don’t know, blood glucose sticks to red blood cells. The more blood sugar there is, the more of it will stick to the hemoglobin. That blood sugar makes the red blood cells bigger and can cause damage as they flow through the blood vessels, scraping as they go. So, the lower the A1c — which measures average glucose over a three to four month period — the better.
I’ve had a bunch of high readings over the last six weeks as I’ve gotten used to my new, correct basal rates and figured out exercise. The good news is that I think I’m almost there, but I fully suspect that this A1c will be higher than the last.
While the prospect of an A1c result that’s worse than my previous test is disappointing, the test is done and the next three to four month test period has started. My diabetes odometer has rolled over, and I can try for a better A1c in February or March. The worst thing about diabetes is that it’s always with me, but at least I can wipe the slate clean a few times every year and try to improve.
