Hemoglobin: What It Means for Your Health
Hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from your lungs to every tissue in your body and carrying carbon dioxide back for exhalation. It is one of the most commonly measured biomarkers in a complete blood count (CBC) and serves as a primary indicator of anemia, dehydration, and blood disorders. Hemoglobin levels are influenced by age, sex, altitude, and hydration status.
Reference Range
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.
What Is Hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from your lungs to every tissue in your body and carrying carbon dioxide back for exhalation. It is one of the most commonly measured biomarkers in a complete blood count (CBC) and serves as a primary indicator of anemia, dehydration, and blood disorders. Hemoglobin levels are influenced by age, sex, altitude, and hydration status.
Commonly included in:
What Does High Hemoglobin Mean?
Elevated hemoglobin may indicate dehydration, polycythemia vera (a bone marrow disorder causing excess red blood cell production), chronic lung disease, or living at high altitudes. Heavy smoking can also raise hemoglobin because the body compensates for reduced oxygen delivery caused by carbon monoxide. In athletes, intense endurance training sometimes elevates levels naturally.
What Does Low Hemoglobin Mean?
Low hemoglobin is the hallmark of anemia, which can result from iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic kidney disease, bone marrow disorders, or chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding). Symptoms often include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Related Biomarkers in Hematology
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.