What is haemoglobin and what role does it play in the body?
Haemoglobin is a protein found in your red blood cells. It enables oxygen to be absorbed from your lungs and transported through your blood to the rest of your body. Haemoglobin also gives your blood its red colour. Without enough haemoglobin, your organs and muscles may not receive enough oxygen to function properly.
What does a low or high haemoglobin level mean?
A low haemoglobin level means that you have fewer red blood cells or less haemoglobin in your blood than normal. This is also known as anaemia. A high haemoglobin level is less common and means that there is more haemoglobin in your blood than normal. Both situations can have consequences for your health.
What symptoms can be associated with an abnormal haemoglobin level?
If your haemoglobin level is too low, you may feel tired, weak or dizzy. You may also experience shortness of breath, heart palpitations or pale skin. If your haemoglobin level is too high, you may experience headaches, itching, red or flushed skin, or a heavy feeling in your head. Sometimes an abnormal level causes no noticeable symptoms at all.
What can cause haemoglobin levels to increase or decrease?
Haemoglobin levels can be low due to blood loss (for example, from menstruation or bleeding), iron deficiency, certain bone marrow disorders or chronic diseases. Elevated haemoglobin levels can be caused by smoking, staying at high altitude, dehydration or certain blood disorders.
When should you consider having your haemoglobin measured?
It may be advisable to have your haemoglobin measured if you experience symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin or shortness of breath, or if your doctor suspects that you have anaemia. Haemoglobin may also need to be checked in certain medical conditions, during pregnancy or as part of a medical examination.
How is haemoglobin measured and how should you interpret the result?
Haemoglobin is measured using a finger-prick blood test. The result indicates how many grams of haemoglobin are present per litre of blood. Your doctor compares the result with the normal reference values for your age and sex. Your doctor will discuss any abnormal results with you and explain what they may mean for you.
What conditions can be associated with an abnormal haemoglobin level?
A low haemoglobin level can occur with anaemia, iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, kidney disease or chronic inflammation. A high level can occur with conditions such as polycythaemia (a rare blood disorder), chronic lung disease or as a result of smoking.
How can an abnormal haemoglobin level be improved or treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If your haemoglobin level is too low, eating iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements may help. Sometimes other medications or treatments are necessary, for example if there is an underlying condition. If your haemoglobin level is too high, the underlying cause may need to be addressed, for example by stopping smoking or treating a medical condition. Your doctor can discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation with you.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.
