OVERVIEW
What is Hb?
Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein which is found in the Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and carries oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues. The hemoglobin test measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
Why is Hb done?
- 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 Hb Measure?
Hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues, and to exchange 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.
The hemoglobin test is usually performed as a part of complete blood count (CBC) test.
- Can a healthy diet help in keeping my hemoglobin levels near normal?
This test is performed on a blood sample. A syringe with a fine needle is used to withdraw blood from a blood vessel in your arm. The healthcare provider will tie an elastic band around your arm to make the blood vessels swell with blood. This makes it easier to withdraw blood. You may be asked to tightly clench your fist. Once the veins are clearly visible, the area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and then the needle is inserted into the blood vessel to collect the sample. You will feel a tiny pinprick during the procedure. Blood sample once collected will then be sent to the laboratory.
- Is there any risk associated with this test?
Many people having anemia are unaware of it, as the symptoms can be minor. The symptoms can be because of any underlying cause or the anemia itself. The symptoms of anemia usually include some of the following: Pale skin, Weakness, Shortness of breath, Fainting, Palpitations, Chest pain, Restless legs syndrome. On examination, the signs exhibited may include pallor (pale skin, lining mucosa, conjunctiva and nail beds), but this is not a reliable sign.
- What are the causes of Anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia overall and it has many causes. Iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient dietary intake or absorption of iron to meet the body's needs. Infants, toddlers, and pregnant women have higher than average needs. Increased iron intake is also needed to offset blood losses due to digestive tract issues, frequent blood donations, or heavy menstrual periods. Bleeding or blood loss, usually from the gastrointestinal tract is another cause. Worldwide, the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia is a parasitic worm infestation.
- 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
- Interpretation of test results:
Males: 14 - 17.5 g/dL
Females: 12.3 - 15.3 g/dL
Low levels of Hemoglobin are due to:
- Anemia
- Thalassemia
- Iron deficiency
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease.
High levels of Hemoglobin are due to:
- Polycythemia
- Chronic lung disease
- Heart failure
- High altitude.
