When he goes to the hospital due to various health issues, blood tests are routinely ordered. One of the tests that is almost always included in these blood tests is the complete blood count (CBC). This test measures the number of red and white blood cells in the blood, the number of platelets, and includes various biochemical analyses. Hemoglobin is the first parameter examined in cases of anemia or iron deficiency.
Hemoglobin is abbreviated as HGB. It is a protein found in red blood cells in the blood plasma. Essentially, it consists of four proteins bound to an iron ion. Through the iron ion, it facilitates the transport of oxygen—taken in via the lungs—into the bloodstream and to other tissues, and similarly, it ensures that harmful carbon dioxide produced in the tissues is transported to the lungs for excretion. Thus, it is vital and indispensable for the body.
Hemoglobin is directly linked to the body’s iron levels and its ability to transport oxygen. For this reason, it is among the first values checked, particularly for individuals suffering from anemia and to assess the effectiveness of anemia treatment. Similarly, prior to surgery, the body’s blood volume—that is, the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity based on hemoglobin levels—is assessed using this parameter. Likewise, after surgery, blood volume loss and its potential impact on the body are monitored through the HGB value. Significant drops in his HGB levels should be treated, as they can significantly impair his body’s ability to carry oxygen and, consequently, adversely affect his health. In necessary cases, this may lead to the need for a blood transfusion for him based on this value. Since hemoglobin stores iron in his body, it is important for evaluating anemia caused by iron deficiency.
Hemoglobin (HGB) Reference Range
Hemoglobin is denoted by the abbreviation “HB” in blood tests. Consequently, hemoglobin levels can be measured through a simple blood test. Hemoglobin levels can also be determined through a complete blood count (CBC) test. The normal range for HGB levels varies by age and gender as follows:
- In women, HGB ranges from 12 to 15 g/dL
- In men, HGB ranges from 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL
If the levels mentioned above are significantly lower or higher than normal, they are evaluated by a specialist.
Low Hemoglobin (HGB)
A hemoglobin level that is low or higher than normal may indicate certain health issues, and the treatment approach is determined based on the degree of the deviation. The normal range for hemoglobin in a healthy body varies depending on the individual’s age and gender. Additionally, it may vary based on the individual’s genetic makeup, hormonal status, and body composition. For this reason, the normal range determined by a routine complete blood count may not accurately reflect the reality for every individual. The most appropriate assessment of low or high hemoglobin levels depends on evaluation by a specialist.
That said, hemoglobin values are generally accepted as follows based on a person’s age and gender:
For newborns: 13.5–24 g/deciliter
For infants (0–3 years): 11–13 g/deciliter
For children (3–11 years): 12–14 g/deciliter
For adult men: 13.5–17.5 g/deciliter
For adult women: 12.5–15.5 g/deciliter
If the hemoglobin level falls below these reference ranges, it is interpreted as anemia. The underlying cause of the anemia is determined, and the treatment method is selected based on the specific problem. Conversely, when hemoglobin levels fall above these reference ranges, it may indicate excessive blood production in the body. Thus, after evaluating additional factors, certain hematological disorders may be identified, or the elevated hemoglobin level may be attributed to a physiological condition.
Elevated Hemoglobin (HGB)
Elevated hemoglobin levels are commonly observed in people living at high altitudes and in smokers. Elevated hemoglobin levels may also be associated with the following conditions:
- Kidney tumors
- Bone marrow problems
- Steroids or performance-enhancing drugs
- Oxygen deficiency
- Chronic lung diseases
Low and High Hemoglobin Levels in Pregnant Women
As a result of physiological changes during pregnancy, the body’s water and fluid content increases. This raises blood volume while causing a relative decrease in the number of blood cells compared to the liquid component of the blood. This condition, which appears as a decrease in hemoglobin levels on a complete blood count, is referred to as “physiological anemia of pregnancy.”
A low complete blood count during pregnancy generally indicates a decrease in hemoglobin levels. The normal hemoglobin value during pregnancy is 12 g/deciliter; it is important to maintain the hemoglobin level above 10.5 g/deciliter.
What Is a Hemoglobin Test?
A low hemoglobin level in the blood is directly linked to a low oxygen level. Hemoglobin is one of the first parameters examined in cases of anemia or iron deficiency. Normal hemoglobin levels vary depending on a person’s age and gender. If the value is below the reference range, anemia is the first condition that comes to mind.
It is generally part of a complete blood count (CBC) test—which may be requested for various reasons—to assess the severity of anemia or polycythemia and to monitor the response to treatment.
It is one of the tests performed using a blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm, or from a fingerstick (in children and adults) or the heel (in newborns).
For Which Conditions Is the Hemoglobin Test Performed?
Hemoglobin levels are among the first parameters considered in cases of anemia or iron deficiency. In such cases, a complete blood count (CBC) is performed; if hemoglobin levels are below normal, they may vary depending on the person’s age and gender and may be associated with various medical conditions.
