‘I am a diabetic and my HbA1c was 6.8 per cent throughout last year; is there still a need for a random blood glucose check?’

However, it’s essential to understand that HbA1c only gives an average of your blood glucose levels over the past three months. “It does not provide insight into daily fluctuations, known as glycemic variability. For example, your fasting blood sugar could be around 70 mg/dL, while your postprandial (after meals) levels might spike to 170 mg/dL. These fluctuations may balance each other out in the HbA1c reading, but the variability itself is a critical factor in long-term complications and overall glucose control. Random or structured blood glucose monitoring helps detect these fluctuations,” said Dr Arora.

Additionally, HbA1c readings can sometimes be misleading, pointed out Dr Arora. “Since HbA1c is a special fraction of hemoglobin, conditions that affect hemoglobin levels, such as anemia, thalassemia, or other blood disorders, can make the results unreliable. In such cases, relying solely on HbA1c could mask underlying glucose imbalances,” said Dr Arora.

Do you regularly check your sugar levels? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

That’s why experts urge regular blood sugar monitoring, including fasting and postprandial (PP) values, is essential. “Ideally, one should also check blood glucose levels before and after lunch, and before and two hours after dinner, at least a few times a week. These readings help you and your doctor better understand your glucose trends in response to meals and lifestyle factors. While a random blood sugar test offers a general snapshot, a structured monitoring chart gives a more accurate and actionable picture of your daily glucose control,” said Dr Arora.

Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai, said all diabetics should be doing their HbA1c every three months, and pre-diabetics can do HbA1c every 4-6 months. Everyone beyond 40 should check HbA1c yearly.

She also emphasised that post meals, everyone should ensure to walk for at least 5-10 minutes that helps control blood sugar levels.

Dr Arora stressed that periodic checks also help in identifying episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which many patients may overlook until symptoms become severe. “Detecting such episodes early can allow for timely adjustments in diet, medication, or physical activity,” said Dr Arora.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.