“HbA1c Above 6%? Get These 5 Annual Health Checks to Stay Worry-Free”

HbA1c is a crucial test that reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. If your HbA1c value exceeds 6%, it may indicate prediabetes or diabetes. Experts advise that people with high HbA1c should undergo five important health checkups every year to maintain overall health and prevent complications.

Kidney Check
Kidney specialist Dr. Arjun Sabharwal recommends an annual urine ACR (albumin-creatinine ratio) test to monitor kidney health. A normal value should be less than 30 mg/g. Values between 30–300 mg/g suggest early kidney damage due to diabetes, while readings above 300 mg/g require immediate medical attention.

Eye Examination
Diabetic patients should also get a dilated fundus examination. This test helps detect diabetic eye damage early and allows timely interventions to preserve vision. Delayed detection can lead to irreversible vision problems.

Blood Pressure Monitoring
High blood pressure accelerates the complications of diabetes. Annual monitoring is essential as uncontrolled pressure can damage kidneys, increase protein leakage, and raise the risk of heart disease.

Nerve Health Check
Persistent high blood sugar can harm nerves. Checking Vitamin B12 levels is crucial, as deficiency can cause numbness, burning sensations in the feet, and balance issues. Since diabetes weakens nerves, maintaining adequate B12 is vital for preventing further damage.

Heart Health Test
Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease. A yearly lipid profile test helps monitor cardiovascular risk. LDL cholesterol should ideally be below 70 mg/dL. Elevated levels require consultation with your doctor for timely management.

Dr. Sabharwal emphasizes that diabetes develops gradually and often worsens other health conditions over time. By staying proactive with these five annual tests, individuals can prevent serious complications and remain healthy.

Disclaimer: The advice in this article is based on information from social media and online sources. Navbharat Times does not guarantee the accuracy or effectiveness of these recommendations. Consult a healthcare professional before following any medical advice.