Hb (Hemoglobin)
Understanding Hb (Hemoglobin)
What is Hb (Hemoglobin)?
A Hb (Hemoglobin) test measures the level of hemoglobin (Hb) in the blood. This test is a key indicator of anemia (a deficiency of red blood cells). It is often done as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test.
Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-rich protein and an essential constituent of red blood cells (RBCs). It is responsible for the unique red color of RBCs. This protein helps transport oxygen from your lungs to different organs and tissues. Normal Hb levels vary depending on age, gender, physiological factors like pregnancy, and diurnal variations. It helps detect a range of health conditions like anemia, long-term infections, blood cell disorders, malnutrition, etc.
Your doctor may suggest a Hb (Hemoglobin) test when you show symptoms of abnormal Hb levels, such as weakness, fatigue, and pale skin. Low hemoglobin levels may indicate anemia, which means your blood doesn't have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry sufficient oxygen. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and other health issues. On the other hand, high hemoglobin levels may indicate polycythemia, a condition where you have an excess of red blood cells, which can lead to thickening of the blood and potential circulation problems. No special preparation is needed before this test; eat or drink as per your daily routine.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help your doctor understand how well your blood carries oxygen throughout the body and guide appropriate treatment to maintain your overall health.
What is Hb (Hemoglobin) used for?
A Hb (Hemoglobin) test can be done:
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As part of routine health checkups to monitor your overall health.
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As part of a complete blood count test.
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If you have symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, pale skin, etc.
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To identify different types of anemia and other red blood cell disorders, such as polycythemia vera.
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To identify hemoglobin levels before and after blood transfusion.
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To monitor your health if you have a family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other genetic blood disorder.
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In case of excessive blood loss due to an injury or a surgical procedure.
What does Hb (Hemoglobin) measure?
A Hb (Hemoglobin) test measures the concentration of hemoglobin protein in your blood. Hemoglobin is made up of iron and globulin proteins. It is an essential part of RBCs and is critical for oxygen transfer from the lungs to all body tissues. Most blood cells, including RBCs, are produced regularly in your bone marrow. The Hb test is a fundamental part of a complete blood count (CBC) and is used to monitor blood health, diagnose various blood disorders, and assess your response to treatments if needed.
Interpreting Hb (Hemoglobin) results
Interpretations
Low hemoglobin levels may be seen in:
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Different types of anemia
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Thalassemia
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Iron deficiency
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Liver disease
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Cancer and other diseases
High hemoglobin levels may be seen in:
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Lung disease
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Heart disease
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Polycythemia vera is a disorder in which your body makes too many red blood cells. It can cause headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath
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People living in high-altitude areas
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hb (Hemoglobin)
Frequently Asked Questions about Hb (Hemoglobin)
Q. When should hemoglobin levels be tested?
Q. Is an Hb test done on an empty stomach?
Q. What is the difference between an Hb (Hemoglobin) test and HbA1c test?
Q. How is an Hb (Hemoglobin) test performed?
Q. Is there any risk associated with an Hb (Hemoglobin) test?
Q. Can my hemoglobin be falsely raised?
Q. Can a healthy diet help in keeping my hemoglobin levels near normal?
Q. What are the symptoms of anemia?
Q. What are the causes of anemia?
Q. What is iron deficiency anemia?
Q. What are the additional tests that may be advised in case of an abnormal test result?
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References
- Hemoglobin [Internet]. Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Medical Center; [Accessed 06 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=hemoglobin
- Sica DA, Mannino R. Antihypertensive medications and anemia. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2007 Sep;9(9):723-7. [Accessed 16 July 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8110062/
- Guyatt GH, Oxman AD, Ali M, Willan A, McIlroy W, Patterson C. Laboratory diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia: An overview. J Gen Intern Med. 1992;7:145-153. [Accessed 16 July 2023]. Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02598003
- PERUTZ MF. Structure of hemoglobin. Brookhaven Symp Biol. 1960 Nov;13:165-83. [Accessed 16 July 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13734651/
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