Concerns About My Son's A1C Levels
Two years ago, my son’s father assumed the role of primary caregiver for my son, who is now 12 years old. Since this change, my son’s A1C readings have varied: they were 10.2, 9.0, 8.7, 9.3, 8.5, and currently stand at 10.1. Interestingly, his levels seem to dip into the 8s only after he spends the summer with me. Despite my worries, his father claims that the doctor has assured him everything is fine. However, I remain apprehensive about how well his blood sugar levels are being controlled. How serious should my concerns be regarding his A1C levels?
Answers (1)
3/23/2025, 8:10:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your son’s A1C levels, especially given their fluctuations. An A1C level above 7% typically indicates that diabetes is not well managed, so consistent levels around 10% are definitely a cause for concern. Here are the main points regarding his situation:
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Current A1C Level: Your son's A1C level of 10.1% suggests that his average blood sugar levels are quite high, which can increase the risk of complications over time. Ideally, for children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the A1C goal is often below 7% or as per individual recommendations from healthcare providers.
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Variability in Readings: The fact that his A1C levels dip into the 8s while he is with you could indicate that the management of his diabetes may vary significantly between your care and his father’s. This could be due to differences in routine, diet, physical activity, or medication adherence.
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Concerns About Control: It is important to address that consistent high A1C levels can lead to long-term complications, including risks to heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Monitoring and managing blood sugar effectively is crucial.
Next Steps:
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Encourage Testing and Monitoring: Discuss with his father the importance of regular blood sugar monitoring, especially if there are changes in lifestyle or diet. Keeping a log of these readings can provide valuable insights.
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Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Focus on promoting a balanced diet rich in low glycemic index foods, regular physical activity, and adequate hydration while he’s with you. Encourage healthy habits that can support better blood sugar control.
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Communication with Healthcare Providers: It might be beneficial to have a direct conversation with your son’s healthcare provider if you feel comfortable. Express your concerns and suggest a review appointment to discuss his blood sugar management plan, aiming for informed and collaborative care.
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Educational Resources: Consider providing both yourself and his father with educational materials about diabetes management and the importance of A1C levels. Understanding the condition better may help in making informed choices regarding his care.
Your concerns are valid, and it's important to advocate for your son’s health actively. Being proactive in monitoring and supporting his diabetes management will contribute significantly to his overall well-being. If you want further assistance or have more specific questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
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