Hemoglobin test

What is hemoglobin ?

Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that gives red blood cells their unique red color. It is primarily responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of the cells in the tissues and organs of your body.

What is hemoglobin test?

A hemoglobin test is often used to detect anemia, which is a deficiency of red blood cells that can have diverse health effects. While hemoglobin can be tested on its own is more often tested as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test that also measures levels of other types of blood cells.

Why do I need a hemoglobin test?

Your health care provider may order the test as part of a routine exam, or if you have:

Symptoms of anemia, which include weakness, dizziness, and cold hands and feet

A family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other inherited blood disorder

A diet low in iron and other minerals

A long-term infection

Excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure

What happens during a hemoglobin test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

What do the results mean?

There are many reasons your hemoglobin levels may not be in the normal range.

Low hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:

Different types of anemia

Thalassemia

Iron deficiency

Liver disease

Cancer and other diseases

High hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:

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.

If any of your levels are abnormal, it doesn’t always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, and other factors can affect the results. You may also have higher than normal hemoglobin levels if you live in a high altitude area. Talk with your provider to learn what your results mean.

Articles quoted from:

Hemoglobin–Testing.com

Hemoglobin Test–MedlinePlus