Hemoglobin , also known as Hb or Hgb, is a protein found in red blood cells and is responsible for transporting oxygen to our organs. It is key to the energy process of the cells and to transport carbon dioxide to the lungs, where it is expelled, it is also what gives the blood its red color. To determine what the values of this protein are in our body, a test called a complete blood count must be performed, which not only measures hemoglobin, but will also give us information about the other blood cells. At FastlyHeal we show you what are the normal values of hemoglobin .
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Why is the hemoglobin test done?
The hemoglobin test is performed to determine the content of this substance in the blood. Generally, it is done as a routine evaluation of your general health or to diagnose or follow up on a specific disease such as anemia. It can also be indicated for the following conditions:
- Cancer treatment monitor
- If you have bleeding
- After surgery
- During pregnancy
- Kidney disease or other chronic problems
- Anemia
- Fatigue symptoms and weight loss
If the test must be done only to see the hemoglobin levels , it is not necessary to be fasting, in case of being used for other tests you may have to fast, in any case it will be the doctor who indicates the procedure. Having received a blood transfusion in the last three months or smoking before the test can alter the results.
Normal values
The values may change depending on the laboratory that performs them, but generally, they are as follows:
- For men, the normal hemoglobin value is 13.8 to 17.2 g / dL.
- For women from 12.1 to 15.1 g / dL.
- In children it can vary, if they are babies it is 9.5 to 13 g / dL and in newborns between 14 and 24 g / dL.
How do I get a hemoglobin test?
The exam will consist of a blood draw, either by inserting a needle into the vein or with a finger stick. In the case of babies, it is possible to obtain the sample by doing a heel stick.
Low hemoglobin levels
If your hemoglobin is below the normal level, it may be due to anemia in its different types , heavy bleeding during menstruation, leukemias or some type of cancer where the bone marrow does not produce enough blood cells, chronic diseases, malnutrition, low level of iron , vitamin B12 and B6.
High hemoglobin levels
On the other hand, having high hemoglobin levels means that there is not enough oxygen in our blood and this can be related to congenital heart disease, pulmonary fibrosis, severe obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even dehydration.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Normal Values of Hemoglobin , we recommend that you enter our category of Blood, heart and circulation .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.