Hemoglobin (Hb)

What is hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. It has one essential task: to pick up oxygen in the lungs and deliver it to the tissues and organs that need it. At the same time, it carries carbon dioxide back to the lungs so that you can exhale it.

The protein is produced in the bone marrow. For proper production, your body needs sufficient iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Without these building blocks, red blood cells cannot be formed properly, which ultimately affects how much oxygen your body receives.

Hemoglobin levels are expressed in grams per deciliter of blood (g/dl) and are a standard part of a standard blood test. They give doctors quick insight into how well the blood performs its transport function.

What can an elevated hemoglobin level mean?

A hemoglobin level that is too high means that there are more red blood cells circulating in the blood than expected. This might sound favorable, but an elevated value can actually be a signal that something is wrong.

A common cause is dehydration. When you do not get enough fluids, the blood becomes thicker and the concentration of red blood cells rises. This is usually temporary and resolves by drinking enough. But sometimes the cause lies deeper.

Polycythemia is a condition in which the bone marrow structurally produces too many red blood cells, leading to a persistently elevated hemoglobin level. Smoking can also stimulate the production of red blood cells, because the body's cells absorb oxygen less efficiently due to the harmful substances in tobacco smoke. Living at high altitudes or the use of certain medications such as erythropoietin and testosterone can also contribute to a higher value.

What can a low hemoglobin level mean?

A hemoglobin level that is too low is called anemia. The red blood cells are then not numerous or strong enough to supply the body with sufficient oxygen. This is often noticed by physical symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

There are various possible causes. A deficiency in iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 impairs the production of healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency is referred to as iron-deficiency anemia, the most common form. Blood loss, for example due to an injury, surgery, or prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, can also cause the hemoglobin level to drop.

Chronic diseases such as kidney failure or cancer can disrupt the production of red blood cells. During pregnancy, the need for red blood cells increases for the growing baby, which increases the risk of anemia in the mother. In all these cases, further investigation is necessary to determine the cause and start the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms associated with an abnormal value

Anemia can manifest itself in many ways. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and the severity depends on how low the hemoglobin level is and how quickly it has dropped.

• Fatigue and general weakness
• Shortness of breath, even during light exertion
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
• Heart palpitations
• Headache
• Restless legs, especially at night
• Paleness of skin or mucous membranes
• Fainting

Are you experiencing several of these symptoms at the same time? Then discuss this with a doctor. Anemia is treatable, but the approach differs depending on the cause. A blood test quickly provides clarity on whether hemoglobin plays a role.

When is measuring useful?

Having your hemoglobin measured is useful if you feel tired for an extended period without a clear reason, if you suffer from shortness of breath or dizziness, or if you belong to a risk group for anemia. Think of pregnant women, people with an unbalanced diet, or patients with a chronic condition.

Hemoglobin is part of a complete blood count, a comprehensive blood test that measures multiple values ​​of your red and white blood cells. Doctors also use it to monitor treatments, for example during chemotherapy or when adjusting iron supplementation.

Via Zample, you can easily request a blood test that measures your hemoglobin level, so you quickly gain insight into how your blood functions.