Each hemoglobin protein can carry four molecules of oxygen, which are delivered throughout the body by red blood cells. Hemoglobin also plays a role in helping red blood cells obtain their disc-like shape, which helps them move easily through blood vessels. Hemoglobin levels are measured by a blood test. A low level of hemoglobin in the blood relates directly to a low level of oxygen. In the United States, anemia is diagnosed if a blood test finds less than In children, normal levels vary according to age.
High hemoglobin levels could be indicative of the rare blood disease, polycythemia. It causes the body to make too many red blood cells, causing the blood to be thicker than usual. This can lead to clots, heart attacks , and strokes. It is a serious lifelong condition that can be fatal if it is not treated. High hemoglobin can also be caused by dehydration , smoking, or living at high altitudes, or it can be linked to other conditions, such as lung or heart disease.
Low hemoglobin levels usually indicate that a person has anemia. There are several kinds of anemia:. Newborns have a temporary anemia when they are weeks old. This occurs when they run out of the red blood cells they are born with but their bodies have not made new red blood cells.
This condition will not affect the baby adversely unless they are sick for some other reason. Babies can also have anemia from breaking down cells too quickly, which results in yellowing skin, a condition known as jaundice. This often occurs if the mother and baby have incompatible blood types.
People who do vigorous exercise are also at greater risk, as exertion can lead to a breakdown of red blood cells in the bloodstream. Women who are menstruating or pregnant may also be at increased risk of developing anemia. People who have chronic health conditions, including autoimmune conditions, liver disease, thyroid disease and inflammatory bowel disease, may have lower hemoglobin levels, which increases the chances of developing anemia.
Hemoglobin levels increase in situations where a person needs more oxygen in their body. Consequently, someone who has lung or kidney disease, who smokes, or is dehydrated, may be at risk of increased hemoglobin levels.
While many types of anemia cannot be prevented, eating iron-rich foods, such as beef, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, and nuts can prevent anemias caused by iron or vitamin deficiencies.
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This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Symptoms High hemoglobin count. Sections Basics Definition Causes When to see a doctor. Definition Causes When to see a doctor. High Hgb may result from your body needing to store more Hgb in red blood cells due to your environment, a condition that affects your heart or lung function, or lifestyle choices. The earlier you notice the symptoms of abnormal Hgb levels and have the cause diagnosed, the more likely you are to have successful treatment.
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In all cases, the bone marrow has difficulty producing normal, healthy red blood cells. Normal hemoglobin levels can vary based on several factors, including age and sex. The presence of Heinz bodies on a blood smear test indicates oxidative damage to the hemoglobin in red blood cells.
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