How will I know if I'm a diabetic

Hi Dee44,

Your fasting blood sugar levels are very high.  As I previously wrote, your fasting blood glucose (sugar) should be 70-110 mg/dL.

Your HbA1C gives you an idea of how your blood sugar has been over the past 2-3 months.  A reading of 7 is not terrible.  This tells me your high blood sugar levels have not been going on long term.

Your next step - CONTACT YOUR MD!  It's very important to have a fasting blood glucose test (or MD may opt for an oral glucose tolerance test) to diagnose whether or not you are diabetic.  Once you have your diagnosis you can work with your MD to determine the best treatment to get your blood sugars under control.

All the best,

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

The Heart of Health ezine

Dee44,

I just wanted to echo Lisa Nelson's comments to your questions.

Your sugars are very high and, if confirmed by your phsyician, you are presently diabetic.  You must make an appointment with your physician for a complete evaluation and lab testing.  Your HbA1c is not very high, which I find curious, given the readings you've stated.  As Lisa mentioned, this is an indication of how your sugars have been over a ten to twelve week period and could mean that your high readings are relatively recent.  This test should be repeated. 

Perhaps there is a cause for your high readings.  Your doctor will help sort this out with you.  Make your appointment as soon as possible.

You will learn that in addition to the treatment by your doctor, diet and exercise will also be key in controlling blood sugars.  Be sure to review our website and it's diabetes section on tips and suggestions to improve these factors which will help in your treatment.

Best wishes.

Martin Cane, M.D.