If you're planning a surgery and have diabetes, your A1c level may come under the spotlight. That’s because elevated A1c levels can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery, including infections, delayed healing, and longer hospital stays. In fact, many surgeons and hospitals now require patients to reach a safer A1c range before scheduling elective procedures.

Here’s what to know about why this matters and how you can get on track.

⛔ Why High A1c Can Be a Problem Before Surgery

A high A1c means your average blood sugar has been elevated over the past two to three months. This can affect your body’s ability to heal and fight infections, which is especially important in the context of surgery. Some key concerns include:

• Increased infection risk: High blood sugar can impair white blood cell function, making it harder for your body to fight off bacteria after an operation.

• Slower wound healing: Glucose interferes with tissue repair, increasing the chance of poor recovery or surgical site complications.

• Greater risk of anesthesia complications: Unstable blood sugar can affect how your body responds to anesthesia, potentially leading to blood pressure swings or cardiovascular stress.

🎯 What A1c Level Is Considered Too High for Surgery?

Most surgical teams prefer an A1c below 8.0 percent, and some may require it to be below 7.5 or even 7.0, depending on the procedure and your overall health status.

While this doesn’t mean you cannot have surgery with a higher A1c, it may lead to delays until better glucose control is achieved.

🧪 Pre-Surgical Screening and Monitoring

If you’re preparing for surgery, your care team may request:

• A recent A1c lab result

• A fasting glucose level

• Sometimes in-hospital glucose monitoring before and after the procedure

Patients with known diabetes or prediabetes may also receive extra screening for kidney function, heart health, and infection risk.

✅ What You Can Do to Lower A1c Before Surgery

1. Prioritize Daily Glucose Monitoring
Use a blood glucose meter or CGM to track patterns and avoid hidden highs. Staying in range consistently can bring A1c down faster than you think.

2. Fine-Tune Medications
Ask your provider whether adjustments in diabetes medications could help achieve better control in the short term.

3. Stay Active
Movement helps your body use insulin more efficiently. Even 20 to 30 minutes of walking per day can make a difference.

4. Eat Balanced Meals
Focus on steady-carb meals with lean proteins, fiber, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary foods and processed snacks that can cause spikes.

5. Manage Stress and Sleep
Both stress and poor sleep raise cortisol, which can elevate blood sugar. Techniques like deep breathing, stretching, or winding down before bed can help stabilize levels.

🧭 Timing and Safety Matter Most

Rushing into surgery with a high A1c might feel urgent, but taking a few extra weeks to improve your blood sugar can lead to a smoother, safer recovery. Communicate with both your surgical and diabetes care teams so everyone is aligned on your timeline and goals.

📅 Preparing for Surgery With Diabetes?

Reach7 offers rapid A1c testing, glucose monitoring support, and personalized plans to help you reach surgical clearance safely.

Book a visit today and move forward with clarity, confidence, and better recovery outcomes.