Frequently Asked Questions
Common steps to use an at-home A1C test kit:
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Store the kit at room temperature away from heat and humidity or results may be inaccurate.
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Check the expiration date on the box. Your results can be inaccurate if the kit is expired.
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There are several home kits available on the market. Read and follow the directions for that specific kit for best results.
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Most A1C home tests come with 2 testing strips. Check to see if you need to refrigerate the second strip until future testing use.
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Wash hands with warm, soapy water and thoroughly dry hands.
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Place the droplet of blood from the side of your finger onto the inserted strip. Make sure you use enough blood, or your screen will read "error".
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Document your result and share with your diabetes care team to enhance your present treatment plan.
What should the A1C range be?
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Normal range: 4.5% - 5.6%
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Pre-diabetes range: 5.7% - 6.4%
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Diabetes range: 6.5% or above
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Controlled diabetes: This range should be discussed with your physician and diabetes care team.
Based on your A1C home test, your A1C value should be based on your age, overall life expectancy, overall health, life quality, existing complications and risk of hypoglycemia. The ADA suggests keeping your A1C as close to 7% or below and the AACE suggests keeping it under 6.5%. Follow your own physician's recommendations of an A1C level especially if you have a heart condition.
Tips to Help Lower A1C Levels:
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Daily exercise, especially 30 minutes after your meal.
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Eating a healthy, whole food, portion controlled diet. Do not skip meals.
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Taking your medications properly and on time.
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Monitoring your daily blood glucose at times suggested by your diabetes team.
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Working with your diabetes care team to meet goals.
Assess Your Progress Regularly With A1C Home Tests
An A1C is a simple blood test that can be performed anytime of the day and does not require fasting. An A1C blood test can be performed in an out-patient lab setting, a physician office, or in the privacy of your own home using an at-home A1C test kit. You can purchase over the counter A1C test kits from stores such as Walgreens and Walmart, as well as online diabetic supply companies, including us. We offer several A1C test kits that will allow you to see your average blood sugars over a 2 to 3-month time frame.The blood test measures how much hemoglobin (a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen) is covered in sugar.
A1C home tests are valuable to have on hand. These simple test kits allow you to test your average blood glucose levels every three months to better understand how much control you have over your health. These regular A1C test kits will alert you if your blood sugar levels are out of control and make it easier for you to make the changes needed to avoid any potentially severe diabetes complications in the future.
Get started on your journey and maintain your health with A1C home tests here at ADW Diabetes!
Find Diabetes Testing Supplies & More
While A1C home tests are more affordable and provide immediate results, A1C test kits may not be as accurate as a lab test. At-home test kits simply allow you to get an idea of where your blood glucose levels are and how you are progressing. When you need more detailed, accurate information, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor, generally every 3-6 months.
When you're looking to manage your diabetes, you need access to high-quality, affordable diabetes supplies. Beyond A1C home tests, ADW Diabetes carries a wide range of diabetes testing and management products, including diabetic test strips and lancets. More importantly, we make the process of shopping easier and secure while offering a wide variety of benefits like easy returns, free shipping on orders over $89, and our convenient auto-ship program so that you always have access to the diabetes self-management tools you need to thrive. If you're looking for trusted brands at the lowest prices for essential diabetes supplies, shop now or contact us for support!