Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-hour urine collection for total 24-hour urinary excretion of free cortisol

Why This Test Matters for Blood Sugar Control

HbA1c reflects the percentage of your red blood cells coated with hemoglobin that has been linked to glucose over time. It’s a key indicator of how well your diabetes or prediabetes is managed, giving a snapshot of your average blood sugar levels over months rather than just recent days.

How HbA1c Works in Your Body

HbA1c forms when glucose attaches to hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Since red blood cells live for about 3 months, this test provides a long-term view of your blood sugar trends, which can help prevent complications like nerve damage or heart disease.

Understanding Cortisol in Urine

Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by your adrenal glands. Measuring its excretion in urine helps assess how your body handles stress and hormone regulation, which can be important for conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal dysfunction.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the HbA1c, no special preparation is needed. For the 24-hour urine cortisol test, you’ll collect all urine for a full day, starting and ending at the same time each day. Drink plenty of water but avoid caffeine or medications that affect cortisol levels before testing.