Hemoglobin

(Hb)

₹120

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation required

Understanding Hemoglobin

What is Hemoglobin?

The hemoglobin (Hb) test measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood, an an iron-containing protein which is found in the Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and carries oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues. This test is often done as part of a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia, a condition in which your body has fewer red blood cells than normal. Abnormally high or low Hb can cause symptoms like exhaustion and shortness of breath.
In adults, the average hemoglobin level is slightly higher for men than for women. You can increase your hemoglobin level by adding iron rich foods in your diet and by taking iron supplements.

What is Hemoglobin used for?

To detect anemia
To detect Hb levels before and after blood transfusion
To monitor the response to treatment of anemia or polycythemia
If you have a family history of an inherited blood disorder
In case of excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure

What does Hemoglobin measure?

The hemoglobin test measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood.

Hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues, and to exchange the oxygen for carbon dioxide. Hemoglobin then carries the carbon dioxide back to the lungs and where it is exchanged for oxygen. Iron is an essential part of hemoglobin. Most blood cells, including red blood cells, are produced regularly in your bone marrow (present within the cavities of many of large bones). To produce hemoglobin and red blood cells, your body needs iron, vitamin B12, folate and other nutrients from the foods you eat.

A decrease in hemoglobin concentration in blood results in anemia. Anemia is a blood disorder characterized by a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin in the blood or a lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen to body organs and tissues. Anemia is the most common blood disorder, affecting about a third of the global population and can cause symptoms like tiredness (fatigue), weakness, shortness of breath etc.

The hemoglobin test is usually performed as a part of complete blood count (CBC) test.

Interpreting Hemoglobin results

Interpretations

Low hemoglobin levels may be seen in:

Different types of anemia
Thalassemia
Iron deficiency
Liver disease
Cancer and other diseases

High hemoglobin levels may be seen in:

Lung disease
Heart disease
Polycythemia vera, a disorder in which your body makes too many red blood cells. It can cause headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath
People living in high altitude area

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hemoglobin

Frequently Asked Questions about Hemoglobin

Q. Can a healthy diet help in keeping my hemoglobin levels near normal?

Yes, a well balanced diet can help in keeping the hemoglobin levels normal since iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid are required for normal red cell production.

Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?

There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

Q. What are the symptoms of Anemia?

Many people having anemia are unaware of it and symptoms can be minor. The symptoms can be related to an underlying cause or the anemia itself. The symptoms of anemia usually include Pale skin, Weakness, Shortness of breath, Fainting, Palpitations, Chest pain and Restless legs syndrome. On examination, the signs that were experienced indicated pallor (pale skin, lining mucosa, conjunctiva and nail beds), but this is not a reliable sign.

Q. What are the causes of Anemia?

Anemia can be caused by impaired red blood cell (RBC) production, increased RBC destruction (hemolytic anemias), blood loss, and fluid overload (hypervolemia).

Q. What is Iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It may occur due to insufficient dietary intake or inadequate absorption of iron in order to meet the body's needs. Infants, toddlers, and pregnant women have higher iron requirements than normal people. The increased iron requirement may also occur due to blood losses, frequent blood donations, or heavy menstrual periods. Worldwide, the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia is a parasitic worm infestation.

Q. What additional tests your doctor may order in case of an abnormal test result?

Your doctor may order the following tests in case of abnormal results : Transferrin, Complete Blood Count, Iron Studies, Serum Transferrin, Serum Iron, Total Iron Binding Capacity, Protein Total, Serum Ferritin

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