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How To Reduce Elevated A1C Levels?
I have not been diagnosed with diabetes. But since August 2015 that is when I started having a lot of joint and muscle pain along with dizziness. I do have arthritis plus I m hypothyroidism (Hashimoto Thyroiditis) and yes obese. I found out that my A1c was 7 point something and I know that is too high and the first time. Yearly I have my A1c checked it usually runs between the low 5 to no higher than 6.0. I am very concern because diabetes runs rapidly in my family on both sides as well as within my family. What can I do to bring it back down? I have been told due to the chronic pain that could be why it is so high.
Wed, 7 Jun 2017
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
With a family history of diabetes and increased weight, you are at risk of becoming diabetic and as you mentioned, the HbA1C is in the diabetic range. Pain can increase the body's stress response and cause an increase in blood sugar but usually not to this extent.
It can be reduced by the standard lifestyle and medication. Lifestyle changes consist of diet changes (water replacing sodas or fruit drinks), use of either the low carb diet or low fat or low calorie diet. Physical activity, if possible, swimming or other water exercise, may be best with the history of joint pain.
Metformin should be considered as it is used in people who are not full blown diabetics to slow down progression, also used in diabetics as well.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
With a family history of diabetes and increased weight, you are at risk of becoming diabetic and as you mentioned, the HbA1C is in the diabetic range. Pain can increase the body's stress response and cause an increase in blood sugar but usually not to this extent.
It can be reduced by the standard lifestyle and medication. Lifestyle changes consist of diet changes (water replacing sodas or fruit drinks), use of either the low carb diet or low fat or low calorie diet. Physical activity, if possible, swimming or other water exercise, may be best with the history of joint pain.
Metformin should be considered as it is used in people who are not full blown diabetics to slow down progression, also used in diabetics as well.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
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