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Causes of Low / High Hemoglobin Levels & How to Improve

Hemoglobin is an essential part of red blood cells that delivers oxygen to all parts of the body. Both low and high levels can adversely affect our health. In this post, we will go over the symptoms of high and low hemoglobin and health issues and diseases that increase or decrease its levels.

High Hemoglobin

Usually, hemoglobin (Hb) is considered high if it’s above the normal range of 15.5 g/dL in women or 17.5 g/dL in men [1, 2].

A single test isn’t enough to make a diagnosis. Doctors will usually interpret this test, taking into account a person’s medical history and other tests, such as red blood cells (RBC), hematocrit, and red blood cell indices.

Also, there is some lab-to-lab variability in normal ranges due to differences in equipment, techniques, and chemicals used. In addition, normal ranges may differ slightly between different populations. That’s why a result that is slightly higher may not be of medical significance.

Why Is High Hemoglobin Bad?

When accompanied by an increase in red blood cells, high hemoglobin can be a sign of a condition called polycythemia. Polycythemia happens when there are more red blood cells in the blood and therefore the blood becomes thicker (more viscous).

The relationship between hemoglobin and blood thickness is linear up to 16 g/dL. Above this, the relation becomes exponential – a small increase in hemoglobin results in a larger increase in blood thickness [3].

Once hemoglobin reaches above 18 g/dL, the blood thickness reaches a level that can impair blood circulation in small blood vessels, and as a result not enough oxygen is reaching the tissues [3].

This is often manifested as bluish skin discoloration and impaired mental function resulting from compromised brain circulation [3]. The signs resemble the signs of severe anemia (low hemoglobin).

Additionally, because of the poor blood flow, the risk of blood clots increases substantially [3].

A study of individuals with chronic mountain sickness, which is due to a combination of high altitude residency and poor lung function, showed that long-term survival with hemoglobin levels above 20 g/dL is not possible [3].

High hemoglobin has been associated with various safety concerns, including elevated blood pressure, iron deficiency, blood clots, heart dysfunction, and stroke.

Elevated hemoglobin has several causes, but it’s usually the result of these two mechanisms:

  • An increase in red blood cell production. This can happen as a compensation for a when blood is carrying less oxygen [3].
  • A decrease in plasma volume. Plasma is the liquid part of the blood [3].

Symptoms Associated with High Hemoglobin

Signs and symptoms of high hemoglobin include [3, 4, 5, 6]:

  • Bluish discoloration of the skin
  • Impaired mental function
  • Fatigue
  • Difficult or labored breathing
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Burning, tingling, or prickling sensations or numbness in the extremities

Factors and Conditions That Increase Hemoglobin

Causes shown here are commonly associated with high hemoglobin. Work with your doctor or another health care professional to get an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will interpret a rise in hemoglobin together with other tests, such as RBC, hematocrit, and red blood cell indices.

1) High Altitude

Being at a higher altitude increases hemoglobin. This is because low oxygen at higher altitudes signals the body to make more red blood cells. When there are more red blood cells, there is more hemoglobin to deliver oxygen to the tissues [3, 7].

For example, a study in 21 healthy men and women, showed that hemoglobin increased within seven days of an ascent to over 5000 meters (16500 feet) but also returned to normal within seven days after descent to 1500 meters (5000) [7].

It’s well known that athletes often use high altitude to increase their hemoglobin levels and improve their performance. An increase in hemoglobin is associated with enhanced endurance, which is a result of the higher oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood [8].

Longer residence at altitudes above 2100 to 2500 meters (7 – 8000 feet) is needed to raise hemoglobin levels and studies show that the effects are retained for about two to three weeks following the descent to sea level before levels eventually return to baseline [9, 7].

Increasing Hb by high altitude training is a legal manipulation in endurance sports, as opposed to the illegal use of erythropoietin (EPO), androgens (read more about these two below), and autologous blood transfusions [10].

Hemoglobin also increases in chronic mountain sickness [11].

A fun fact: Himalayan, but not Andean residents, have adapted to high altitudes by having lower hemoglobin levels. Because of this, they rarely suffer from chronic mountain sickness. These differences in adaptation are explained by the time these people have had to adapt to high altitudes. High altitude residents have inhabited the Andes for approximately 9,000 to 12,000 years, but people have lived in the Himalayan plateau for more than 50,000 years [11, 12].

A study in over 1.7k Tibetan women suggests that lower Hb levels increases their endurance while it decreases their risk of blood clots, chronic mountain sickness, pre-eclampsia in pregnancy, and infant mortality [13, 14].

2) Cigarette Smoking

Cigarette smoking causes a part of the hemoglobin to become nonfunctional. That’s because carbon monoxide (CO) from tobacco smoke binds hemoglobin 210 times more efficiently than oxygen [3].

To compensate for this, the total levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin increase in smokers (smokers’ polycythemia) [15].

3) Dehydration

Lower plasma (liquid part of the blood) volume results in the relative elevation of hemoglobin levels [3].

Any condition that causes a loss of fluids, such as diarrhea or severe burns, results in relatively high hemoglobin levels [2].

In the short term, exercise can also transiently increase hemoglobin levels when fluids are not sufficiently replaced. But hemoglobin levels usually go back to normal over the following 24 hours [16, 17].

Acute dehydration can increase hemoglobin concentration by 10 to 15% [3].

4) Respiratory and Heart Disease

Lung and heart issues, which compromise the amount of oxygen in the blood, also increase red blood cell production and hemoglobin levels [3].

High hemoglobin develops as the body’s reaction to a state of persisting low oxygen, found in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea [10].

Adults with some inborn heart defects can have high hemoglobin levels [18].

5) Polycythemia Vera

Polycythemia vera is a bone marrow disorder. Basically, it is a type of tumor that causes an overproduction of red blood cells and also increases hemoglobin as a result [2].

In many cases, this condition is due to a mutation in the JAK2 gene. Because of it often being hereditary, first-degree relatives have a 5 to 7-fold higher risk of developing the disease in comparison to the general population [19].

There is no definite cure for this condition. It is, however, possible to treat the symptoms and improve life expectancy [10].

6) Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease and some types of kidney cancer can increase red blood cells and hemoglobin. So can kidney transplantation [10].

This is usually due to the increased production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulated the production of red blood cells.

7) Erythropoietin

Erythropoietin (EPO) increases Hb levels by two mechanisms [20]:

  • By increasing red blood cell production
  • By decreasing plasma volume (blood liquid), which is probably due to the decreased function of the rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis

Erythropoietin, as a drug, is used to help treat some types of anemia. In addition, it’s sometimes used as a doping substance by athletes to increase red blood cell count, which enlarges their oxygen reserves [10].

8) Testosterone and Other Hormones

Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production and increases hemoglobin, particularly in high doses [21].

Androgens stimulate red blood cell production. They do this by increasing EPO release, stimulating bone marrow activity, and increasing the incorporation of iron into red blood cells [17].

Other hormones that enhance red blood cell production include cortisol, the growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factors [17].

9) Some Rare Genetic Disorders

In some people, high red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels can be due to rare inherited disorders (e.g. primary familial and congenital polycythemia) [22].

Low Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin usually decreases when there are fewer red blood cells. Low hemoglobin levels may mean that your blood carries oxygen less efficiently. This condition is called anemia [23].

But keep in mind that a single test isn’t enough to diagnose anemia. Doctors will interpret a hemoglobin value, taking into account a person’s medical history and other test results, such as RBC, hematocrit, and red blood cell indices. A result that is slightly lower may not be of medical significance, as this test often varies from day to day and from person to person.

Having a slightly lower hemoglobin is usually not accompanied by any symptoms. When exercising, however, any loss of hemoglobin or red blood cells results in lower exercise capacity, even within the low normal range [3].

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anemia is defined as hemoglobin <12.0 g/dL in women and <13.0 g/dL in men [24].

Although the oxygen-carrying capacity is dependent on circulating hemoglobin levels, people with chronic anemia can develop a compensatory mechanism to improve oxygen unloading to tissues. This mechanism maintains adequate tissue oxygen delivery down to a hemoglobin level of 7 – 8 g/dL [3].

Severe anemia is defined as a hemoglobin level below 7 g/dL [3].

Low Hemoglobin Symptoms

Signs of low hemoglobin/anemia include [25, 26, 27]:

  • Fatigue and general weakness
  • Irritability
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Poor concentration
  • Shortness of breath
  • Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat)
  • Intolerance to exercise
  • Cold hands and feet (impaired ability to maintain core body temperature)

Based solely on symptoms, it may not be easy to realize a person is anemic. That’s because people with low hemoglobin will show relatively few symptoms at the same time. Furthermore, they often get used to their symptoms and consider them normal [26].

Factors and Conditions That Decrease Hemoglobin

Causes shown here are commonly associated with low hemoglobin. Work with your doctor or another health care professional to get an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will interpret a drop in hemoglobin together with other tests, such as RBC, hematocrit, and red blood cell indices.

1) Iron Deficiency

Red blood cells require large amounts of iron for hemoglobin. In fact, more than half of total-body iron is contained in hemoglobin [28]!

Iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin levels and leads to anemia, once the body’s iron stores become depleted [28].

In the absence of major bleeding, iron deficiency anemia generally develops slowly over the course of months or years [28].

Reversing iron deficiency anemia may be equally slow, depending on the amount of iron in the diet and the state of one’s gut function [28].

In developed countries, 4 to 20% of the population are affected by iron deficiency anemia, while in developing countries these figures range from 30 to 48% [29].

2) Other Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

Other than a lack of iron, anemia also results from other micronutrient deficiencies such as vitamins B12 and B9 (folate), or less frequently vitamin A, vitamin B6, or copper [30].

These vitamins and minerals are all important for the production of red blood cells.

B Vitamins and Anemia

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency is usually caused by malabsorption in developed countries and by insufficient dietary intake in developing countries [31].

Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs in up to 6% of those aged 60 years and older, whereas marginal (mild) deficiency occurs in close to 20% of people in later life [32].

Reduced vitamin B12 absorption is often associated with pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the stomach which prevents vitamin B12 absorption. The prevalence of pernicious anemia in European countries is approximately 4% and it’s more common in the elderly [32].

Folate (vitamin B9) deficiency is another major cause of anemia [33].

Folate deficiency anemia occurs due to poor nutrition, impaired gut absorption, increased demand for this vitamin (e.g. in pregnancy), depletion by some drugs, or hereditary disorders [34, 35].

Vitamin A Deficiency and Anemia

Vitamin A deficiency may cause anemia because this nutrient is essential for both blood cell production and the mobilization of iron from iron stores [36, 37].

Vitamin A also increases the production of erythropoietin (EPO), a stimulant of red blood cell production [37].

Vitamin A deficiency is common in developing countries but rarely occurs in the US.

Copper and Anemia

Copper deficiency causes disorders in blood cell production and copper deficiency anemia [38]. Copper deficiency is usually due to underlying health issues.

3) Blood Loss

Blood loss can occur as a result of wounds and ulcers, heavy menstrual bleeding, or frequent blood donations.

A pilot study in 44 women showed that women with heavy menstrual bleeding had lower hemoglobin and more often had anemia [39].

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known for causing gut injury and upper gut bleeding. Even low dose aspirin or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can increase blood loss, and their frequent use may result in anemia [40].

Frequent blood donors can also develop anemia. This happens because blood donation removes a large amount of iron from the blood. Some scientists argue that the 56-day minimum inter-donation interval for donors in the US may not be sufficient for the recovery of hemoglobin and iron stores. That’s why it’s best for donors to monitor their iron and ferritin levels, and use iron supplements if necessary or to prolong the inter-donation period [41].

4) Disorders and Diseases that Impair Nutrient Absorption

Conditions that impair nutrient absorption can cause anemia by causing nutrient deficiencies (most commonly iron). This can happen in conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), autoimmune gastritis (a disease that destroys the cells that produce stomach acid), and Helicobacter pylori infection [42, 43, 44, 45, 46].

Anemia is the most common symptom of celiac disease, found in 32 to 69% of adults with the disease [40].

Anemia is also one of the most prevalent complications of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) [44, 47].

5) Gastric Bypass Surgery

People who’ve had a gastric bypass surgery absorb less nutrients. That’s why iron deficiency anemia may be relatively common after gastric bypass surgery [48].

6) Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

Anemia of inflammation (also called anemia of chronic disease) occurs in chronic infections, critical illness, kidney failure, autoimmune diseases, and cancer [49].

It is caused by immune activation (the interleukin IL-6 increases the hormone hepcidin which lowers blood iron levels) [50, 51].

For example, there’s an estimate that 30 to 60% of rheumatoid arthritis patients may be anemic [52].

This is a mild to moderate anemia. Hemoglobin values rarely drop lower than 8 g/dL [53].

The best treatment for this type of anemia is to treat the underlying disease. When that is not possible, doctors may prescribe transfusions, intravenous iron, and agents that stimulate red blood cell production to help improve the condition [49].

7) Being Overweight

Being overweight has been associated with lower hemoglobin levels, likely due to chronic inflammation [54].

In a study of 707 teenagers. overweight girls had lower hemoglobin levels [55].

8) Abnormal Red Blood Cell Destruction

Hemoglobin is lower in conditions that cause abnormal red blood cell destruction (hemolytic anemia), including [56, 57, 58, 59]:

  • infections such as malaria
  • Enlarged spleen
  • hereditary conditions such as sickle-cell anemia
  • autoimmune anemia (antibodies that attack red blood cells)

9) Genetic Disorders in Hemoglobin Production

There are several genetic disorders in which hemoglobin is abnormal, resulting in deformed red blood cells, such as [57, 60]:

  • Sickle-cell anemia
  • Alpha and beta thalassemia
Sickle-Cell Anemia

Sickle-cell anemia is caused by a mutation in the gene for one of the hemoglobin chains. Incorporation of the abnormal chains results in an abnormal hemoglobin called hemoglobin S (HbS). The disease only occurs in people who have two abnormal copies.

Red blood cells that contain this HbS become rigid, taking on a crescent or “sickle” shape. Because of their shape, they obstruct blood flow in the smaller blood vessels [61].

Sickle-cell anemia causes inflammation, blood clots, red blood cell destruction, oxygen deficiency, and ultimately organ damage [57].

Episodic exacerbation can cause severe pain, pulmonary failure, and stroke [61].

About 240,000 children are born annually with sickle cell anemia, most of them in Africa. Only 20% survive to their second birthday [61].

The median survival for sickle-cell patients in the United States is about 42 years [61].

There is an important reason why this disease is so common. Namely, HbS carriers, those who have a single abnormal copy, are resistant to malaria [62, 57].

Carriers of a single HbS copy typically have 40% of HbS. They are usually without symptoms, Severe oxygen deficiency is required for them to experience the symptoms of sickle-cell disease [62].

Approximately 8% of African-Americans are carriers of this hemoglobin variant [62].

Thalassemias

Thalassemias are disorders that are caused by the combination of over 300 known mutations in the hemoglobin chains (alpha or beta) [61].

These mutations are common in the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and China. About 60,000 affected children are born per year [61].

People with thalassemia have varying degrees of anemia. In one of the more severe cases, such as beta-thalassemia major, there is an inability to maintain hemoglobin at levels greater than 6.5 g/dL [61].

While some people with the disorder require regular blood transfusion, others require sporadic transfusion when the bone marrow activity is suppressed (e.g. by viral infection). Treatment options for more severe cases may be bone marrow transplants, or gene therapy [61].

Just like carriers of sickle cell HbS, thalassemia mutation carriers are also resistant to malaria. That is why these mutations are relatively common [63].

10) Chronic Kidney Disease

Anemia also develops as a frequent complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The severity of anemia can be proportional to the degree of kidney dysfunction [64].

Impaired kidney function results from the inability of the kidneys to produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production [65].

11) Hypothyroidism

Anemia frequently accompanies thyroid disorders [66].

Thyroid hormones stimulate the production of red blood cells both directly and by increasing erythropoietin (EPO) production [66].

Anemia in hypothyroidism may result from decreased bone marrow function, decreased erythropoietin production, or iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency [66].

The relationship between anemia and thyroid disorders goes both ways, as iron-deficient anemia lowers the levels of thyroid hormones [66].

A study in 60 people showed that adding iron to thyroxine therapy improved hypothyroidism better than thyroxine therapy alone [67, 68].

12) Endurance Exercise (Sports Anemia)

Trained athletes, particularly in endurance sports, often have sports anemia.”

This is not always a regular anemia. In fact, athletes often have an increased total mass of red blood cells and hemoglobin compared to non-athletes. However, the relative decrease in hemoglobin is brought about by an increased plasma (liquid part of the blood) volume [17].

However, some types of exercise can actually cause the destruction of older red blood cells in contracting muscles or by compression, such as in foot soles during running [17].

A study in 747 athletes and 104 non-athletes showed that low hemoglobin is more often found in people who do endurance compared to strength and mixed training [69].

13) Heavy Metals and Toxins

Lead poisoning impairs the production of hemoglobin and decreases red blood cell survival [70].

Several studies in children exposed to lead in their environment found that higher lead levels in the blood were associated with lower hemoglobin [71, 72].

Cadmium is another heavy metal that causes anemia due to red blood cell destruction, iron deficiency, and erythropoietin (EPO) deficiency [73].

Anemia and low erythropoietin are the clinical features of the itai-itai disease, which is a condition that was caused by long-term cadmium intoxication in Japan [74].

Toxins other than heavy metals can also impair red blood cell production. For example, aflatoxins can decrease both hemoglobin and red blood cell volume [75].

Aflatoxins are toxins produced by fungi that contaminate staple food crops in many developing countries [76].

In a study of 755 pregnant women, those with higher aflatoxin blood levels were more likely to be anemic [76].

14) Bone Marrow Disorders

Anemia and low hemoglobin levels can result from bone marrow disorders (e.g. leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma) and damage due to toxins, radiation, chemotherapy, and cancer that have spread to bone marrow [77, 58].

15) Aging

People are more likely to develop anemia as they get older [78].

A large US study of almost 40k people found that anemia was present in 11% of men and 10% of women above the age of 65, and 26% of men and 20% of women above the age of 85 [79].

A fall in hemoglobin levels that occurs around the eighth decade of life seems to be part of normal aging [79].

But in approximately 50% of cases, anemia in the elderly is due to reversible causes, including iron and vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic kidney insufficiency [78].

16) Pregnancy

In normal pregnancies, blood volume expands by an average of 50%. This rapid expansion of blood volume starts in the first trimester.

However, the volume of plasma (the liquid part of the blood) increases more than the red blood cell mass, which produces a relative decline in Hb levels during the first half of the pregnancy. This is known as the anemia of pregnancy [3].

This decrease in hemoglobin is greatest in women with large babies or those carrying twins [80].

17) Some Medication

Apart from NSAIDs that can cause bleeding, medication used to lower blood pressure may also reduce hemoglobin levels. Usually, these changes are small. However, in certain instances, these medications can cause a clinically significant degree of anemia [81].

Blood pressure medications cause hemodilution (increasing the fluid content of the blood), hemolytic anemia (the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells), and/or suppression of red blood cell production [81].

Factors and Conditions That Impair Hemoglobin Function

1) Methemoglobin

Methemoglobin (metHb) is a form of Hb where the iron is in an altered state (Fe3+ instead of Fe2+) and cannot bind oxygen.

Apart from being unable to carry oxygen, this type of Hb causes oxidative and inflammatory damage to blood vessels [82].

In normal people, metHb accounts for 1 to 2% of total Hb [82].

However, certain drugs and toxins can increase metHb levels. Some genetic mutations can also increase metHb levels.

People with over 10% of metHb have bluish skin discoloration [62].

Brain and heart-related symptoms and damage begin to appear when metHb exceeds 30% [62].

Both toxic and congenital conditions can be effectively treated by methylene blue [62].

2) Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) binds hemoglobin with an affinity 210 times greater than oxygen [62].

Inhaling great amounts of carbon monoxide results in toxic carbon monoxide poisoning [62].

When carbon monoxide binds hemoglobin, hemoglobin can no longer bind oxygen. This causes tissue damage due to oxygen deficiency [62].

People with carbon monoxide poisoning develop brain and heart damage when carbon monoxide-bound hemoglobin levels exceed 20% [62].

Levels of 40 to 60% result in unconsciousness, coma, and death [62].

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be treated with oxygen or exchange transfusion [62].

Hemoglobin Series

This post is part two of a three-part series:

definition, test, low vs high levels and causes

  1. What is hemoglobin?
  2. Can hemoglobin be measured with a test?
  3. Hemoglobin levels
  4. What is a normal Hemoglobin count?
  5. What is a low hemoglobin count?
  6. What is a high hemoglobin count?
  7. What does it mean if your Hemoglobin is low?
  8. What does it mean if your Hemoglobin is high?
  9. What causes low or high hemoglobin levels?
  10. How to increase your hemoglobin levels?
  11. What is the difference between hemoglobin and hemoglobin A1C?
  12. Hemoglobin Counter for Research

What is hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a protein molecule found in red blood cells (erythrocytes) that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without hemoglobin, your red blood cells cannot deliver the oxygen that your cells need to produce energy. Hemoglobin is vital for human life.

Hemoglobin is a tetramer with four polypeptide chains — two alpha (α) and two beta (β) chains. Each of the polypeptide chains has a heme prosthetic group and an iron atom.

The heme group contains a red pigment called porphyrin. Iron attaches itself to porphyrin. When iron binds to oxygen, the porphyrin transforms blood into a vibrant red color. When it’s not bound to oxygen, it makes blood appear purplish-blue.

Each iron atom binds to one oxygen molecule. And since hemoglobin has four iron atoms, each one carries four oxygen molecules as it moves through your body.

In adults, the predominant hemoglobin is α2β2. It is also commonly called hemoglobin A1 (HbA).

Can hemoglobin be measured with a test?

The hemoglobin test is a common blood test that measures your hemoglobin count. It is typically measured as part of a complete blood cell count, along with hematocrit measurement.

To test, a laboratory technician or healthcare staff first cleans the area marked for collection. Next, they may prick your fingertip or insert a needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. Your sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

Your hemoglobin count gives you a direct measurement of the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood.

Hemoglobin levels

After testing, your doctor may find out that your hemoglobin levels are normal, high, or low.

What is a normal Hemoglobin count?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, normal hemoglobin counts for adults are:

  • 14 to 17 gm/dL (grams per deciliter) of blood for men
  • 12 to 15 gm/dL for women

What is a low hemoglobin count?

A low hemoglobin count is:

  • 13.5 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter (135 grams per liter) of blood for men
  • Less than 12 grams per deciliter (120 grams per liter) for women

What is a high hemoglobin count?

The threshold for a high hemoglobin count varies, depending on the medical practice.

In general, a high hemoglobin count is:

  • More than 16.6 grams (g) of hemoglobin per deciliter (dL) of blood for men
  • More than 15 g/dL for women
  • In children, the definition of a high hemoglobin count varies with age and sex

What does it mean if your Hemoglobin is low?

A low hemoglobin count means that the oxygen-carrying capacity of your hemoglobin is reduced. Consult with your doctor if you suspect that your hemoglobin is low.

According to the Mayo Clinic, low hemoglobin levels can indicate that an individual has certain medical conditions, including:

  • Aplastic anemia
  • Cancer
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Cirrhosis
  • Hodgkin’s lymphoma (Hodgkin’s disease)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Lead poisoning
  • Leukemia
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Myelodysplastic syndrome
  • Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Vitamin deficiency anemia

Researchers have also discovered that lower hemoglobin levels are associated with larger infarction at the time an acute ischemic stroke happens in a patient.

What does it mean if your Hemoglobin is high?

A high hemoglobin count is associated with high hemoglobin levels, which means that your hemoglobin has an increased oxygen-carrying capacity than normal.

A high hemoglobin level may indicate:

  • Lung disease
  • Heart disease
  • Polycythemia vera
  • Kidney tumors
  • Dehydration
  • Hypoxia
  • Carbon monoxide exposure
  • High altitude

What causes low or high hemoglobin levels?

Low or high hemoglobin causes are medical conditions that change the way your red blood cells behave or how many red blood cells you have at a certain time.

Sometimes, deficiencies in iron can cause your hemoglobin levels to decline. When your body’s iron concentrations are getting low, you may progress from mild iron deficiency to iron-deficiency erythropoiesis to iron deficiency anemia (IDA). IDA is typically characterized by low hemoglobin levels.

Hemoglobin concentrations lower than 11 g/dL in children under 10 years of age, or lower than 12 g/dL in individuals aged 10 years or older, are indicative of IDA.

How to increase your hemoglobin levels?

If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate low hemoglobin levels, consult with your doctor first to diagnose and confirm the cause of your symptoms.

If your doctor confirms that your hemoglobin levels are low due to a deficiency in iron, then you can increase your hemoglobin levels by eating iron-rich foods.

Iron deficiency can lead to low hemoglobin levels because hemoglobin contains iron atoms as one of its main components. In fact, approximately two-thirds of your body’s iron is found in heme.

Certain people are more likely to have inadequate iron in their blood, including:

  • Pregnant women
  • Infants and young children
  • Women with heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Frequent blood donors
  • People with cancer
  • People with gastrointestinal disorders or previous gastrointestinal surgery
  • People with heart failure

Your doctor may recommend that you eat more foods containing iron. According to the NIH, foods rich in iron include:

  • Lean meat – heme iron
  • Seafood – heme iron
  • Nuts – nonheme iron
  • Beans – nonheme iron
  • Vegetables – nonheme iron
  • Fortified grain products (bread, cereals, and other grains) – nonheme iron

Heme iron has a higher bioavailability than nonheme iron. This means that sources of food with heme iron are more readily absorbed by hemoglobin. To get good absorption of the iron from nonheme iron sources, eat a lot of foods in this category.

Avoid foods that can prevent iron from getting absorbed. These include polyphenols (in certain vegetables), tannins (in tea), phytates (in bran), and calcium (in dairy products).

For more specific iron-rich foods, check the NIH fact sheet.
Your doctor may also prescribe iron supplements in addition to iron-rich foods.

Guidelines for iron supplements vary depending on the official recommending body. However, here are the iron supplementation guidelines from the US Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • Infants exclusively breastfed and less than 4 months of age – no need to supplement with iron. Breast milk is sufficient
  • Infants exclusively breastfed and 4 months of age or older: 1 mg/kg/day of standard over-the-counter iron drops
  • Infants less than or 12 months of age who are not exclusively breastfed: iron-fortified infant formula
  • Breastfed infants who were born preterm or with low birthweight: 2–4 mg/kg/day of iron drops (to a maximum of 15 mg/day)
  • Women of childbearing age: 0.3–0.5 mg/day
  • Pregnant women: an average of 3 mg daily over 280 days’ gestation

If your doctor confirms that you have anemia, your low hemoglobin levels may be due to a lack of vitamin B12 or folate.

If so, your doctor may advise that you increase your hemoglobin with the following foods that are rich in both folic acid and vitamin B12:

  • Eggs
  • Meat
  • Poultry
  • Milk
  • Shellfish
  • Fortified cereals

Your doctor may also prescribe vitamin B12 shots and/or folic acid supplements if needed.

What is the difference between hemoglobin and hemoglobin A1C?

Normal hemoglobin is known as Hemoglobin A1 (HbA). However, there’s another type of hemoglobin known as hemoglobin A1c or glycated hemoglobin. Hemoglobin A1c is hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it.

The higher your blood glucose level, the more chances that glucose will bind to your hemoglobin and convert it into A1c.

The hemoglobin A1c test is typically used to screen for and monitor diabetes. It can also check your risk of developing diabetes.

The A1c test is also done frequently to monitor glucose levels in people living with diabetes.

Hemoglobin Counter for Research

Researchers are constantly working on advancing traditional methods to measure hemoglobin. Earlier methods include the copper sulfate technique (CST), hemoglobin color scale (HCS), Sahli’s method, and cyanmethemoglobin method (CM).

CM is still the gold standard for measuring hemoglobin counts because of its accuracy. However, novel non-invasive methods to calculate hemoglobin counts include portable methods such as automated hemoglobin analyzers, HemoCue gravity method, and NBM 200.

Credit: Cover picture – Hemoglobin by Murtada al Mousawy is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Polycythemia Vera – American Family Physician

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Diagnostic criteria and prognosis in polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia. Semin Hematol.
1999;36(1 Suppl 2):9–13.

7. Polycythemia: primary and secondary. In: Kjeldsberg CR. Practical diagnosis of hematologic disorders. 3d ed. Chicago: ASCP Press, 2000:121.

8. Berlin NI.
Polycythemia vera: diagnosis and treatment 2002. Expert Rev Anti-cancer Ther.
2002;2:330–6.

9. Pearson TC,
Guthrie DL,
Simpson J,
Chinn S,
Barosi G,
Ferrant A,

et al.
Interpretation of measured red cell mass and plasma volume in adults: Expert Panel on Radionuclides of the International Council for Standardization in Haematology. Br J Haematol.
1995;89:748–56.

10. Pearson TC.
Evaluation of diagnostic criteria in polycythemia vera. Semin Hematol.
2001;38(1 Suppl 2):21–4.

11. Grover SA,
Barkun AN,
Sackett DL.
The rational clinical examination. Does this patient have splenomegaly?. JAMA.
1993;270:2218–21.

12. Weinberg RS,
Worsley A,
Gilbert HS,
Cuttner J,
Berk PD,
Alter BP.
Comparison of erythroid progenitor cell growth in vitro in polycythemia vera and chronic myelogenous leukemia: only polycythemia vera has endogenous colonies. Leuk Res.
1989;13:331–8.

13. Michiels JJ,
Juvonen E.
Proposal for revised diagnostic criteria of essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera by the thrombocythemia vera study group. Semin Thromb Hemost.
1997;23:339–47.

14. Berk PD, Wasserman LR, Fruchtman SM, Goldberg JD. Treatment of polycythemia vera: a summary of clinical trials conducted by the polycythemia vera study group. In: Wasserman LR, Berk PD, Berlin NI, eds. Polycythemia vera and the myeloproliferative disorders. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders, 1995:166–94.

15. Diehn F,
Tefferi A.
Pruritus in polycythaemia vera: prevalence, laboratory correlates and management. Br J Haemat.
2001;115:619–21.

16. Fruchtman SM, Wasserman LR. Therapeutic recommendations for polycythemia vera. In: Wasserman LR, Berk PD, Berlin NI, eds. Polycythemia vera and the myeloproliferative disorders. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders, 1995:337.

17. Michiels JJ.
Erythromelalgia and vascular complications in polycythemia vera. Semin Thromb Hemost.
1997;23:441–54.

18. Gilbert HS.
Current management in polycythemia vera. Semin Hematol.
2001;38(1 Suppl 2):25–8.

19. Barbui T,
Finazzi G.
Treatment of polycythemia vera. Haematologica.
1998;83:143–9.

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1995;123:656–64.

21. Streiff MB,
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The diagnosis and management of polycythemia vera in the era since the Polycythemia Vera Study Group: a survey of American Society of Hematology members’ practice patterns. Blood.
2002;99:1144–9.

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Diagnosis and treatment of polycythemia vera and possible future study designs of the PVSG. Leuk Lymphoma.
2000;36:239–53.

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Interferon alpha in the treatment of polycythemia vera. Ann Hematol.
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Interferon alpha-2b: a new treatment for polycythemia vera. Ann Intern Med.
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Polycythaemia – NHS

Polycythaemia, also known as erythrocytosis, means having a high concentration of red blood cells in your blood.

This makes the blood thicker and less able to travel through blood vessels and organs. Many of the symptoms of polycythaemia are caused by this sluggish flow of blood.

Symptoms of polycythaemia

Not everyone with polycythaemia has symptoms – but many do.

Make an appointment to see your GP if you have persistent symptoms of polycythaemia. These include:

  • headaches
  • blurred vision
  • red skin – particularly in the face, hands and feet 
  • tiredness
  • high blood pressure 
  • dizziness
  • discomfort in the tummy
  • confusion
  • bleeding problems – such as nosebleeds and bruising
  • gout – which can cause joint pain, stiffness and swelling
  • itchy skin – especially after a bath or shower

When to seek immediate medical advice

Polycythaemia can cause blood clots. These put you at risk of life-threatening problems such as:

  • pulmonary embolisms – a blockage in the blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs
  • deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a blockage that forms in the blood vessels in your leg before moving elsewhere in your body

Seek medical help immediately if you or someone you’re with shows signs of DVT or a pulmonary embolism. These include:

  • pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in one of your legs
  • a heavy ache in the affected area
  • warm skin in the area of the clot
  • breathlessness
  • chest or upper back pain
  • coughing up blood
  • feeling lightheaded or dizzy
  • fainting

Polycythaemia also increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. Seek emergency medical help if you think that you or someone you’re with is having a heart attack or stroke.

What causes polycythaemia?

Polycythaemia can be divided into several different types, depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, an underlying cause can’t be identified.

Apparent polycythaemia

“Apparent polycythaemia” is where your red cell count is normal, but you have a reduced amount of a fluid called plasma in your blood, making it thicker.

Apparent polycythaemia is often caused by being overweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol or taking certain medicines – including diuretics (tablets for high blood pressure that make you pee more).

Apparent polycythaemia may improve if the underlying cause is identified and managed. Stopping smoking or reducing your alcohol intake, for example, may help.

Relative polycythaemia

This is similar to apparent polycythaemia. It can happen as a result of dehydration.

Absolute polycythaemia

“Absolute polycythaemia” is where your body produces too many red blood cells. There are 2 main types:

  • primary polycythaemia – there’s a problem in the cells produced by the bone marrow that become red blood cells; the most common type is known as polycythaemia vera (PV)
  • secondary polycythaemia – too many red blood cells are produced as the result of an underlying condition

Polycythaemia vera (PV)

PV is rare. It’s usually caused by a change in the JAK2 gene, which causes the bone marrow cells to produce too many red blood cells.

The affected bone marrow cells can also develop into other cells found in the blood, which means that people with PV may also have abnormally high numbers of both platelets and white bloods cells.

Although caused by a genetic change, PV isn’t usually inherited. Most cases develop later in life. The average age at diagnosis is 60.

Secondary polycythaemia

Secondary polycythaemia is where an underlying condition causes more erythropoietin to be produced. This is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the bone marrow cells to produce red blood cells.

Health conditions that can cause secondary polycythaemia include:

How polycythaemia is diagnosed

Polycythaemia can be diagnosed by carrying out a blood test to check:

  • the number of red blood cells in your blood (red blood cell count)
  • the amount of space the red blood cells take up in the blood (haematocrit level)

A high concentration of red blood cells suggests you have polycythaemia.

Polycythaemia is sometimes only discovered during a routine blood test for another reason.

Your GP may refer you to a haematologist (a specialist in blood disorders) for more tests, to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the underlying cause.

These may include:

  • a blood test to look for the changed JAK2 gene
  • an ultrasound scan of your tummy to look for problems in your kidneys

Treatments for polycythaemia

Treatment for polycythaemia aims to prevent symptoms and complications (such as blood clots), and treat any underlying causes.

Venesection (removing blood)

Venesection is the simplest and quickest way of reducing the number of red cells in your blood. It may be recommended if you have PV, a history of blood clots, or symptoms suggesting your blood is too thick.

Venesection involves removing about 1 pint (half a litre) of blood at a time, in a similar way to the procedure used for blood donation.

How often this is needed will be different for each person. At first, you may need the treatment every week, but once your polycythaemia is under control you may only need it every 6 to 12 weeks or less.

For more information, read an NHS leaflet on having a venesection (PDF, 336kb). 

Medicine to reduce red blood cells

In cases of PV, medicine may be prescribed to slow down the production of red blood cells.

Many different medicines are available and your specialist will take into account your age and health, response to venesection and red blood cell count when choosing the most appropriate one for you. Examples include:

  • hydroxycarbamide – this medicine is taken as tablets every morning and is generally tolerated well. But you should not take it if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant
  • interferon – this medicine is given by injection into the abdomen or thigh 1 to 3 times a week. You can inject it yourself at home once you’ve become familiar with how to do it. Interferon has the advantage that it can be taken in pregnancy, but it may cause unpleasant side effects, such as hair loss and flu-like symptoms

Medicine to prevent blood clots

If you have PV, daily low-dose aspirin tablets may be prescribed to help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of serious complications.

You may also be offered treatment with low-dose aspirin if you have apparent or secondary polycythaemia and another health problem affecting your blood vessels, such as coronary heart disease or cerebrovascular disease.

Treating and preventing other symptoms

Some people may also need treatment for any other symptoms or complications of polycythaemia they have, or for any underlying cause of the condition.

For example, you may be given medicine to help relieve itching or manage COPD. Read more about:

treatments for itching

treating COPD

Lifestyle changes that help

As well as improving some cases of apparent polycythaemia, making healthy lifestyle changes can also reduce the risk of potentially serious blood clots for people with all types of polycythaemia.

Having polycythaemia means you’re already at high risk of a blood clot, and being overweight or smoking only increases this risk.

You may find the following advice and information helpful:

losing weight 

healthy weight calculator 

preventing cardiovascular disease 

managing high blood pressure 

stopping smoking

Outlook for polycythaemia

The outlook for polycythaemia largely depends on the underlying cause.

Many cases are mild and may not lead to any further complications. However, some cases – particularly cases of PV – can be more serious and require long-term treatment.

If well controlled, polycythaemia should not affect your life expectancy, and you should be able to live a normal life. However, people with PV can have a slightly lower life expectancy than normal due to the increased risk of problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.

PV can also sometimes cause scarring of the bone marrow (myelofibrosis), which can eventually lead to you having too few blood cells. In some rare cases, it can develop into a type of cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

Page last reviewed: 30 April 2019
Next review due: 30 April 2022

Polycythemia Vera | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is polycythemia vera?

Polycythemia vera is a rare blood disorder in which there is an increase in all blood cells, particularly red blood cells. The increase in blood cells makes your blood thicker. This can lead to strokes or tissue and organ damage.

What causes polycythemia vera?

Polycythemia vera is caused by a genetic change (mutation) that develops during your lifetime. It is not an inherited genetic disorder. In most cases it is not known why this happens.

What are the symptoms of polycythemia vera?

When you have more blood and it is thicker than normal, problems can occur. Each person’s symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:

  • Lack of energy (fatigue) or weakness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath and trouble breathing while lying down
  • Vision problems, such as double vision, blurred vision, and blind spots
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Night sweats
  • Face and becomes red and warm (flushed)
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bleeding gums
  • Too much menstrual bleeding
  • Coughing up blood
  • Bruising
  • Itchy skin (often after a hot bath)
  • Gout
  • Numbness
  • High blood pressure

These symptoms may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is polycythemia vera diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will take your medical history and give you a physical exam. Your provider may also do blood tests. These tests will check the increased number of red blood cells in your body. They will also check if there are other conditions that could cause your higher red blood cell count.

How is polycythemia vera treated?

Your healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:

  • Your age, overall health, and medical history
  • How sick you are
  • How well you handle certain medicines, treatments, or therapies
  • If your condition is expected to get worse
  • What you would like to do

Treatment may include:

  • Phlebotomy. This procedure removes blood from your body. At first this must be done often, such as every week. Once enough blood has been removed to reduce your body’s iron stores (needed to make blood quickly), you will not need this done as often.
  • Certain medicines, including chemotherapy. The medicines help to stop your bone marrow from making too many blood cells. They also keep your blood flow and blood thickness closer to normal.

What are the complications of polycythemia vera?

Polycythemia vera can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. It can cause blood clots resulting in a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. Liver and spleen enlargement are other possible complications.

Living with polycythemia vera

There is no cure for polycythemia vera, but proper treatment can help to reduce or delay any problems. Work with your healthcare provider to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. You should also be physically active in order to increase your heart rate and improve your blood flow.

Other ways to improve your blood flow include:

  • Stretching your legs and ankles
  • Wearing warm gloves and socks during cold weather
  • Avoiding extreme heat
  • Drinking plenty of water

You should also avoid situations in which you could be hurt, and check your feet for any sores.

Key points about polycythemia vera

  • Polycythemia vera is a rare blood disorder in which there is an increase in all blood cells, particularly red blood cells.
  • The increase in blood cells makes the blood thicker.
  • Thick blood can lead to strokes or tissue and organ damage.
  • Symptoms include lack of energy (fatigue) or weakness, headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, visual disturbances, nose bleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual periods, and bruising.
  • Treatment may include medicines and phlebotomy, a procedure that removes extra blood from your body.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

  • Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
  • Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
  • Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
  • At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
  • Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
  • Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
  • Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
  • Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
  • If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
  • Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Hemoglobin | Lab Tests Online

Sources Used in Current Review

(October 7,2018) Maakaron, J. Anemia: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology. Medscape Reference. Available online at https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/198475-overview#a1. Accessed July 2019.

McPherson, Richard A & Pincus, Matthew R. (© 2017). Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 23rd Edition: Elsevier Inc., St. Louis, MO. Chapter 32, 559-605.

Sources Used in Previous Reviews

Thomas, Clayton L., Editor (1997). Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. F.A. Davis Company, Philadelphia, PA [18th Edition].

Pagana, Kathleen D. & Pagana, Timothy J. (2001). Mosby’s Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference 5th Edition: Mosby, Inc., Saint Louis, MO.

Wu, A. (2006). Tietz Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests, Fourth Edition. Saunders Elsevier, St. Louis, Missouri. Pp 524-527.

Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 21st ed. McPherson R, Pincus M, eds. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier: 2007, Chap 31, Pp 458, 489-491.

Kasper DL, Braunwald E, Fauci AS, Hauser SL, Longo DL, Jameson JL eds (2005). Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th Edition, McGraw Hill, Pp 329-336.

Pagana K, Pagana T. Mosby’s Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests. 3rd Edition, St. Louis: Mosby Elsevier; 2006, Pp 300-303.

Harmening D. Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis, Fifth Edition, F.A. Davis Company, Piladelphia, 2009, Pp 82-85, 771.

(Feb 9 2010) Dugdale D. Hemoglobin. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Available online at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003645.htm. Accessed January 2012.

(December 2005) Mayo Reference Services. How to interpret and pursue an abnormal complete blood cell count in adults. Vol. 30 No. 12. PDF available for download at http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/media/articles/communique/mc2831-1205.pdf. Accessed January 2012.

(March 1, 2011) National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. What is Polycythemia vera? Available online at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/blood/index.htm. Accessed Jan 2012.

(Aug 1, 2010) National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Anemia. Available online at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/anemia/. Accessed Jan 2012.

(November 4, 2011) Maarkaron J. Anemia. Medscape Reference article. Available online at http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/198475-overview. Accessed Jan 2012.

(May 26, 2011) Kahsai D. Emergent Management of Acute Anemia. Medscape Reference article. Available online at http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/780334-overview#a1. Accessed Jan 2012.

(August 26, 2011) Harper J. Pediatric Megaloblastic Anemia. eMedicine article. Available online at http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/959918-overview. Accessed Jan 2012.

(June 8, 2011) Artz A. Anemia in Elderly Persons. eMedicine article. Available online at http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1339998-overview. Accessed Jan 2012.

Riley R, et.al. Automated Hematologic Evaluation. Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University. Available onlinr at http://www.pathology.vcu.edu/education/PathLab/pages/hematopath/pbs.html#Anchor-Automated-47857. Accessed Jan 2012.

Wintrobe’s Clinical Hematology. 12th ed. Greer J, Foerster J, Rodgers G, Paraskevas F, Glader B, Arber D, Means R, eds. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: 2009, Pg 4.

Harmening D, Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis, Fifth Edition, F.A. Davis Company, Philadelphia, 2009, Pp 70, 771.

Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 22nd ed. McPherson R, Pincus M, eds. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier: 2011, 510-512, 557-599.

(Updated February 12, 2014) Yang B. Hemoglobin Concentration. Medscape Reference. Available online at http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2085614-overview#a4. Accessed June 2015.

 

Hemoglobin Test | Harbin Clinic

Normal results for adults vary, but in general are:
  • Male: 13.8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
  • Female: 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL
Normal results for children vary, but in general are:
  • Newborn: 14 to 24 g/dL
  • Infant: 9.5 to 13 g/dL

The examples above are common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

Low hemoglobin level may be due to:
  • Anemia due to red blood cells being destroyed earlier than normal (hemolytic anemia)
  • Anemia (various types)
  • Bleeding from digestive tract or bladder, heavy menstrual periods
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Bone marrow being unable to produce new blood cells. This may be due to leukemia, other cancers, drug toxicity, radiation therapy, infection, or bone marrow disorders
  • Poor nutrition
  • Low level of iron, folate, vitamin B12, or vitamin B6
  • Other chronic illness, such as rheumatoid arthritis

High hemoglobin level is most often due to low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia), present over a long period of time.

Common reasons for high hemoglobin levels include:
  • Certain birth defects of the heart, present at birth (congenital heart disease)
  • Failure of the right side of the heart (cor pulmonale)
  • Severe COPD
  • Scarring or thickening of the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis) and other severe lung disorders
Other reasons for high hemoglobin level includes:
  • A rare bone marrow disease that leads to an abnormal increase in the number of blood cells (polycythemia vera)
  • The body not having as much water and fluids as it should (dehydration)

 

High hemoglobin treatment and description of the causes of the disease

High hemoglobin. What it is? Concepts and definitions.

High hemoglobin is an overestimated indicator of the level of hemoglobin in the blood. The hemoglobin level in the blood of a healthy woman is 120-140 g / liter of blood, a healthy man’s is 135-160 g / l. Accordingly, a high hemoglobin level is over 150g / L for women and over 170g / L for men.

This disease can manifest itself in the form of dysfunction of the genitourinary system and pale skin color of the whole body.

The disease can appear regardless of the person’s age. Including children. The reason may be, for example, an excess of glucose in the body and thickening of the blood.

Treatment of any disease should not be postponed. If something went wrong in your body, then there is a reason for it. What body bells can tell you that you are developing an increased level of hemoglobin, we will consider further.

Symptoms that indicate an increased level of hemoglobin in the blood of a person.

Pay attention to the following. As mentioned above, if you have dysfunctions of the genitourinary system and pale skin color of the whole body, then it is possible that you have increased hemoglobin. A more complete list of symptoms is as follows:

  • Pale skin
  • Disorders of the genitourinary system
  • Vision problems
  • Partial or complete loss of appetite
  • Increased sleepiness and fatigue
  • Blood thickening

Thus, if some or all of the symptoms present in the lists are manifested by you, then it’s time to take care of your health.

Remember, the disease is easier and faster to treat in the early stages, when it has not yet taken root deep into your body.

Do not start it and do not leave it to chance or “maybe it will pass by itself.” Undoubtedly, the body’s resources are great. And Tibetan medicine is for the body to cope with the disease itself.

However, in the conditions of our modern life and not knowing the true causes of the disease, you should contact a specialist and undergo a free diagnosis in our clinic. At the very least, you will know your exact diagnosis, the cause of the illness, and recommendations for a quick recovery.

Let’s continue our research, and first let’s find out where the roots of all diseases come from, in particular, high hemoglobin.

The root cause of increased hemoglobin. Where are the roots of all human diseases?

Our world is diverse and complex for some, but simple and great for others. The ability to behave, to subordinate thoughts to one’s will, to manage one’s condition in different situations, to launch the correct biochemical processes, allows a person to have strong energy and strong immunity, and therefore resistance to any diseases.

The integrity of the body begins to break down with psychoemotional factors that affect us every day. If a person knows how to cope with them, processing any emotional leaps towards a positive shift for himself, he will be able to react easily to any uncomfortable situation, remain in good health and, moreover, develop his energy potential.

Otherwise, under the influence of the crazy pace of life, stressful situations at work, at home or on the road, a negative energy charge begins to accumulate, gradually destroying the energy shell of a person.

At first it affects the psychological health of a person, in the future, the destruction goes to the physical level, where internal organs begin to suffer and various sores begin to creep out.

Let’s go directly to the reasons and factors that contribute to the appearance of high hemoglobin.

“To cure someone, you must first make a correct diagnosis. And to be able to make a correct diagnosis, you need to have not only solid medical knowledge, but also a genuine interest in curing the disease.It’s not enough to be a doctor, you still have to be able to help. ”

Bertolt Brecht

The reasons for the increase in hemoglobin. What can have a direct impact on the development of the disease?

Above we said that the disease can be provoked by an excess of glucose in the body and thickening of the blood. There are more reasons.

The main reasons for an increase in hemoglobin include the following:

  • An excess of glucose in the body
  • Increased hemoglobin in blood plasma
  • Increased volume of red blood cells in blood serum
  • Poor intestinal permeability
  • 26
    An overabundance of B vitamins in the body
  • Problems of the cardiovascular system

Why can a disease not respond to treatment, and when everything seemed to have passed, there is a relapse? Because at the stage of diagnosis, the doctor did not determine the cause of the disease.

To treat symptoms means to drive the disease even deeper inside, where it will infect more and more new areas, developing a whole “network” of associated diseases.

And, one “fine” day, they will make themselves felt with all their bouquet, which will also be joined by side effects from drugs. Is it worth it? Of course not. There is always a choice

Next, we will consider the approach of Tibetan medicine to the treatment of high hemoglobin.

Treatment of high hemoglobin with Tibetan medicine.

Rapid recovery of the body in Tibetan ways is due to the methods of external and internal influence. Anything that can contribute to a quick recovery is taken into account. Lifestyle and nutrition also play an important role here.

On a free pulse diagnosis, you are given an accurate diagnosis, your prevailing constitution is determined, which is one of the most important points for setting the correct treatment, the causes of the disease, concomitant diseases are determined, and, based on these data, treatment is prescribed.

Again, diet and lifestyle play an important role in the healing process. Therefore, it is important to know your natural constitution and the state of affairs in general. And already on the basis of these data, determine the necessary diet, with the presence of abundant drink and the exclusion or limitation of foods that are not suitable for you by nature.

The main external influences include the following procedures:

  • Acupuncture
  • Moxotherapy
  • Stone Therapy
  • Tibetan Massage
  • Vacuum Therapy 9004
  • 3

  • Vacuum Therapy 9004
  • 3

  • other.

In combination with herbal medicine, these procedures give a tremendous healing effect and allow you to quickly relieve pain and alleviate the condition.

Correctly selected phytopreparations have an immunomodulatory, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect, harmonizing the state of the internal systems of the body.

An integrated approach is the basis of Tibetan medicine. External exposure to the above procedures leads to the following:

  • Normal blood hemoglobin levels are restored
  • Blood functionality is improved
  • Stagnation is eliminated
  • Immunity is increased
  • discomfort
  • Concomitant diseases go away
  • The general condition of the body improves
  • Pale skin color disappears
  • The functions of the genitourinary system are restored
  • Vision improves
  • 3 Appetite

    9003 Decreases increased drowsiness and rapid fatigability of the body

Tibetan medicine has helped many patients to restore the lost health.Even in those cases when ordinary doctors refused a patient, saying that he could no longer be helped, Tibetan medicine helped.

Not because she has some kind of magic pill, but because she has tremendous knowledge about the nature of man and his interaction with this world. This experience has been accumulating for millennia and is now gaining popularity very quickly due to its amazing results.

Without chemistry, antibiotics, painful procedures and surgeries, we manage to lift and put people on their feet, significantly improving their condition.

People come to us for the prevention of diseases. Relax, relieve your emotional state, raise your vitality and restore energy.

After complex procedures, a person gains harmony with himself and the outside world for a long time. He just glows with love, energy and life.

Therefore, if you have any health problems, come, we will help you.

Health to you and your loved ones!

References:

Blumenfeld L.A. Hemoglobin // Soros Educational Journal. – 1998. – No. 4. – S. 33-38.

Perutz M. Hemoglobin molecule // Molecules and cells. – M., 1966 .– S. 7-29.

Human Biochemistry / R. Murray, D. Grenner, P. Meyes, W. Rodwell. T. 1. – M .: Mir, 1993. – S. 52-62, 71, 98-100, 123-124, 335-366.

A. Leinger, Fundamentals of Biochemistry, Ed. V. A. Engelgard. – M .: Mir, 1985 .– T. 1-3. – S. 27-123, 187-225, 768-771.

Irzhak L. I. Hemoglobins and their properties. – M .: Nauka, 1983.- 150 p.

Starodub VF Heterogeneous system of hemoglobin. Synthesis of hemoglobin of certain types in ontogenesis and in pathology of the organism // Advances in modern biology. – 1986. – № 3.

Starodub NF, Nazarenko VI Heterogeneous system of hemoglobin: structure, properties, synthesis, biological role. – Kiev: Nauk. dumka, 1987 .– 198 p.

Pavlov AD, Morshchakova EF Regulation of erythropoiesis: Physiological and clinical aspects. -M .: Medicine, 1987 .– 272 p.

Walkinson D.Principles and methods of diagnostic enzymology. – M .: Medicine, 1980.

Todorov Y. Clinical laboratory research in pediatrics // Sofia: Medicine and physical culture, 1968. – P. 278-310.

Branden C., Tooze J. Introduction to a protein structure // Garland Publishing, 1991.

Klotz I. M., Haney D. N., King L. C. Ritional approaches chemotherapy: Antisickling agents // Sience. -1981. – P. 219.

Biochemistry / Ed. E. S. Severina. – M .: Ed. house “GEOTAR-MED”, 2003.- S. 46-55.

Irzhak L. I., Gladilov V. V., Moiseenko N. A. Respiratory function of blood in conditions of hyperoxia. -M .: Medicine, 1985 .– 176 p.

Guide to Hematology / Ed. A.I. Vorobieva, Yu.I. Lorie. – M., 1979.

Ovchinnikov Yu.A. Bioorganic chemistry. – M .: Education, 1987 .– S. 120, 205-207.

Elliot W., Elliot D. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. – M .: Publishing house of the Research Institute of Biomedical Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, 2000. – S. 311-321.

Wintrobes Clinical Hematology / G.R. Lee, T. C. Bithell, J. Foerster et al. – Philadelphia: Lea end Febiger, 1993.

Dashtayants G.A. Clinical hematology. – Kiev: Health, 1973. – S. 45-72.

Aslanova NK Some erythrocyte indices in patients with chronic hypoxia of various origins. – Clinical medicine. – 1991. – No. 4. – S. 56-58.

Gutoranov VG Modification of the method for determining the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood // Laboratornoe delo. – M., Medicine. – 1983. – No. 2. – S. 9-11.

Agapova A.,. Kriventsev Yu. A., Dyakova O. N. Development of a diagnostic immunodiffusion test system for fetal hemoglobin // Proteins – markers of pathological conditions: Materials of the conf. young scientists from the international participation. – Astrakhan – Moscow, 2001 .– S. 101-103.

Postnatal changes in oxygen affinity of rat blood / D. S. Dhindsa, J. Netcalf, D. W. Blackmore, R. D. Koler // Comp. Biochem. and Physiol. A. – 1981. – 69 (2). – P. 279-293.

Zaichik A. Sh., Churilov L.P. Fundamentals of pathochemistry.- SPb .: Elbi-SPb., 2000.

Laboratory research methods in the clinic / Ed. prof. V.V. Menshikov. – M .: Medicine, 1987 .– S. 108-111.

General and medical genetics. Lectures and tasks / R.G. Zayats, V.E.Butvilovsky, I.V. Rachkovskaya, V.V.Davydov. – Rostov n / D .: Phoenix, 2002.

Shevchenko V.A., Topornina N.A., Stvolinskaya N.S. Human Genetics: Textbook. for stud. higher. study. head – M .: Humanit. ed. center “VLADOS”, 2002.

Why does the level of hemoglobin in the blood jump up and down and how to keep it normal.- Verees

Hemoglobin in the blood below normal is bad. Above the norm is even worse. Why does his blood level jump and what should be done to ensure that this indicator is always normal?
1. The main function of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen to all organs and tissues. The concepts of the hemoglobin norm in men and women differ (for women, the normal hemoglobin level is 120-140 g / l, for men – 130-160 g / l).
For pregnant women (whose body works for two) and for infants, the normal hemoglobin level is 110 g / l.However, expectant mothers need to constantly monitor the level of hemoglobin. Its deficiency can cause premature birth or fetal growth retardation, and excess can cause the death of the child.
2. Moderate decrease in hemoglobin (anemia, anemia) is common, especially in women. This is due to physiologically related monthly blood loss. If your period is heavy, the hemoglobin level can drop to 90 g / l.
Even healthy women may experience weakness, dizziness, decreased appetite, drowsiness, decreased performance, dry skin, brittle nails, brittleness, and hair loss when hemoglobin levels are low for a long time.
This is often observed in patients with inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: the inflamed gastric mucosa cannot fully absorb iron.
The most dangerous conditions are internal bleeding (ulcers, erosion, tumors, including malignant ones). Pallor is a distinctive feature of patients suffering from these diseases.
3. However, a high level of hemoglobin is not a reason for joy. Most often this is a symptom of dangerous diseases (erythrocytosis, blood clotting, congenital heart disease, the consequences of a burn, intestinal obstruction, heart and lung failure, dehydration).
4. Children have high hemoglobin counts – an indirect sign of blood disease or cancer. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous to ignore high hemoglobin: it is imperative to find out the cause.
5. Signs of low hemoglobin levels
Persistent weakness, decreased appetite, drowsiness, dizziness, taste perversion, dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, stuck corners of the mouth.
6. Signs of high hemoglobin
Similar to signs of hepatitis. Icteric discoloration of the skin, sclera, palate and tongue, itching, liver enlargement, heart rhythm disturbances, pallor, thinness.
You can take a blood test in the laboratory and promptly get advice from a hematologist (adult or child) at our Family Clinic. Receptions for ADULTS and CHILDREN! Recording by phone. 43-03-03 and 41-03-03.

90,000 Causes and consequences of increased hemoglobin

13 December 2018

Both low and high levels of hemoglobin in the blood are dangerous for the human body.There are many reasons for this. Among them are some features of a certain range of professions, for example, professional sports, as well as other factors.

Increased hemoglobin in men and women

The risk group includes people living or working at high altitudes with a lack of oxygen (pilots, flight attendants). Their body itself raises the level of hemoglobin.

Psychotropic substances, as well as steroids and anabolic steroids, which some athletes take intensively, are dangerous in this regard. This problem is more inherent in men.

In women, hemoglobin levels may rise during pregnancy.

Increase hemoglobin active sports:

  • ski;
  • speed skating;
  • treadmill, etc.

The reason is that athletes need a lot of oxygen during training.Its lack leads to an increase in the level of hemoglobin.

The effect of health status on the increase in hemoglobin

A number of diseases should be considered. Many of them directly affect hemoglobin.

Pay attention:

  • for diabetes mellitus;
  • cardiac pathology;
  • 90,023 kidney disease;

  • dehydration of the body;
  • psychological stress;
  • poisoning, problems with the gastrointestinal tract and gallbladder;
  • hereditary predisposition;
  • malignant tumors.

The presence of such diseases is associated with an increase in the level of hemoglobin, which must be reduced.

Negative consequences

Abnormal hemoglobin values ​​in men – from 170 grams per liter, in women – from 150 grams per liter. Exceeding these standards is an alarming signal. In addition to a number of unpleasant symptoms (pressure surges, weakness, poor concentration, decreased vision, etc.), heart attacks and even death are possible (tearing off a blood clot).

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90,000 reasons for women and men “- Yandex.Q

Hemoglobin is a complex iron-containing protein that is part of red blood cells. Takes part in the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the cells of all organs and the removal of carbon dioxide in the opposite direction.

It can be immediately noted that a high level of hemoglobin indicates increased blood coagulation, which is not a positive point.As a result of an increase in the viscosity of the blood, the likelihood of the production of blood clots increases, in addition to this, the transport of oxygen is also difficult.

To understand whether it is worth worrying and how drastic measures to take, you need to know which indicator is considered optimal for good health. What does elevated hemoglobin mean, and what should be done in such a situation, we will consider in this material.

Norm

Normal blood hemoglobin levels for women are 120-140 g / l and for men – 135-160 g / l.

The indicator may fluctuate depending on the physical and mental condition. Its prolonged decrease or increase in comparison with normal indicators indicates a problem in the body.

Increased hemoglobin in men

May be as a consequence of smoking, due to the state of the body caused by a number of diseases. In diseases such as erythrocytosis, pernicious anemia and hemolytic anemia, when the composition of the blood changes.

With erythrocytosis, the number of red blood cells increases, which can be caused by diseases of the kidneys, lungs, heart. The reasons that increase hemoglobin can be artificial valves in the heart, cholelithiasis. Lack of folic acid, vitamin B12 due to diseases of the gastric mucosa, which is unable to absorb these necessary elements, can also contribute to an increase in hemoglobin in men.

Increased hemoglobin in women

What does this mean and what should be done? In women, increased hemoglobin is quite rare.As mentioned above, the norm in healthy women varies between 120 and 140 g / l.

It is allowed that hemoglobin was increased in the range of 10-20 units, if the indicators are above 20, you should be examined. Causes may include blood disorders, congenital heart defects, cancer, and cardiopulmonary failure.

What does a high level of hemoglobin say?

The blood component in question is contained in erythrocytes produced by the bone marrow.These red blood cells carry oxygen to various organs.

Therefore, if hemoglobin rises, it is most likely that hypoxia (oxygen starvation) occurs in some area of ​​the body. Because of it, the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, and the blood viscosity increases.

Causes of high hemoglobin

Why is hemoglobin elevated, and what does it mean? Changes in such an important indicator as the level of hemoglobin indicate that dysfunction of certain organs and systems has occurred.Although in some cases, high hemoglobin is the norm – for example, in people living in mountainous areas. This is a compensatory reaction of the body to a lack of oxygen high in the mountains.

The main reasons for an increase in hemoglobin in the blood in an adult, including women, are:

  1. Not too alarming, albeit a negative sign, is an increase in hemoglobin in smokers (as well as people who have recently been in a fire). The fact is that hemoglobin is able to carry only oxygen or carbon dioxide, easily replacing them with each other.
  2. Severe dehydration increases plasma levels and, as a result, increases blood volume. The dehydration process itself does not increase the level of red blood cells, however, the consequences expressed in an increase in blood volume increase their concentration in general, which is also expressed in an increased level of hemoglobin.
  3. Acquired heart defects characterized by high pressure in the pulmonary circulation. This is most typical for mitral stenosis of rheumatic etiology.
  4. Congenital heart diseases, especially defects, which are accompanied by enrichment of pulmonary blood flow. In this case, the color of the skin changes from early childhood and has a bluish tint. The child is often worried about shortness of breath, coughing may occur. Conducting an ultrasound of the heart allows you to make the correct diagnosis. Treatment of such diseases with a pronounced clinic is only operational.
  5. Increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood (erythrocytosis).
  6. Increase in the amount of hemoglobin in blood plasma (hemoglobinemia).
  7. Impaired intestinal permeability.
  8. Diseases of the lungs and pulmonary insufficiency.
  9. An excess of vitamins B6 and B12 in the human body.
  10. Cancer diseases.

However, the increased content of hemoglobin in the blood can be associated not only with various kinds of diseases, but also with the living environment and lifestyle.

Physiological causes

Consider the main reasons for the increase in hemoglobin, which are of external origin:

  1. Accommodation at high altitudes.The higher the altitude, the lower the oxygen level in the air. Because of this, the body produces as much hemoglobin as possible in order to bind the maximum amount of oxygen.
  2. Regular outdoor activities and exercise increase hemoglobin levels.
  3. In women, pregnancy can be considered an external factor that affects the increase in hemoglobin.
  4. Features of the profession. The point is that sometimes work takes place in conditions of low oxygen content, and the body reacts to this state by raising the level of hemoglobin in the blood
  5. The use of anabolic steroids.

High hemoglobin is a less dangerous phenomenon than if the level is low, since anemia is diagnosed with low levels of this substance. However, it is worth noting that increased hemoglobin is still a reason for seeking medical help, as it may indicate the presence of a serious pathology in the body.

It was noticed that hemoglobin higher than normal increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, and also often leads to the development of strokes and heart attacks.

Symptoms and effects of high hemoglobin

With high hemoglobin, a person may not experience any symptoms, but with a prolonged and significant change in this indicator with a complex of concomitant diseases, the patient may have various vague symptoms that are general in nature and do not indicate a specific disease:

  • increased fatigue, lethargy;
  • 90,023 poor appetite;

  • drowsiness or, conversely, trouble falling asleep;
  • pains in joints, bones – in ribs, hips;
  • blood pressure rises;
  • 90,023 headaches, dizziness;

    90,023 itching of the skin, especially after a shower, bath;

  • abdominal pain.
  • Rapid bruising and easy bleeding.

These signs appear on the external level. But the most dangerous processes take place inside the body. There is a thickening of the blood medium, an increase in its viscosity and a decrease in the rate of circulation in the body. Because of this, the internal organs do not receive nutrition. The most serious consequence is the formation of blood clots and plaques that cause heart attacks and strokes.

How to lower hemoglobin in the blood

If the thing from which the hemoglobin rises is not associated with serious pathologies, then it is possible to influence the high hemoglobin with a certain diet or drugs.Among the pharmacy drugs that are relatively freely available, one can single out those that are aimed at thinning the blood: Curantil, Cardiomagnyl, Trental, or the ordinary Aspirin. Only a specialist appoints them.

In order to reduce the level of hemoglobin at home, you need to approach your diet more strictly and review your diet:

  1. Increased fluid levels in the body. To do this, it is enough to drink more warm liquid. If this is not possible (for example, with severe extensive burns), then use saline droppers.
  2. It is recommended to cut down on fats, pastries with cream and eggs in the diet, as they increase cholesterol and so in thick blood. Do not take multivitamins and preparations containing copper and iron. Choose seafood, white meat, legumes, nuts, and vegetables.
  3. The use of foods that increase hemoglobin should be limited. These are foods rich in protein and iron – red meat, fruits, vegetables and red berries, meat offal, fish caviar, butter, buckwheat porridge, sweet and smoked.

It is useful to eat the following products:

  1. All kinds of fish and seafood (except mussels).
  2. Chicken meat.
  3. Certain legumes.
  4. Fresh raw vegetable and fruit salads.
  5. Boiled and baked vegetables.

We have already said that increased hemoglobin is only a symptom of some kind of disease. Therefore, simultaneously with its normalization, it is necessary to find and eliminate the primary cause.

Material provided

simptomy-lechenie.net

is the norm in the blood, what to do if the level is high or low?

Hemoglobin is an essential element of the blood, an iron-containing protein and the main component of red blood cells. It has the ability to capture oxygen and transport it to organs. Without hemoglobin, normal tissue oxygenation would be impossible. However, both a deficiency and an excess of this protein are dangerous.

Why the hemoglobin level in women is lower than in men

Normally, the hemoglobin level in the blood of men is slightly higher than that of women. This is due to several factors – low levels of male sex hormones (primarily testosterone), which have a stimulating effect on hematopoiesis, and monthly blood loss during menstruation.

Hemoglobin level is variable. It changes depending on age, habits and lifestyle, health status.In infants, in the first days of life, the hemoglobin level is very high, but it decreases rapidly before the age of one year. After a year up to 18–20 years, the hemoglobin level gradually increases. During pregnancy and after 70–75 years, hemoglobin may drop slightly, and this is normal.

It is impossible to determine “by eye” the level of hemoglobin. Of course, there are certain signs that allow one to suspect an increased and decreased concentration of hemoglobin in women (we will talk about them later), but only a blood test can give accurate information.For analysis, capillary or venous blood is taken.

Blood for hemoglobin is donated in the morning, on an empty stomach, in a calm and relaxed state (physical and emotional stress affects the content of this protein in the blood). The day before the analysis, you should not go to the bathhouse or sauna, take a hot bath, do sports training, eat fatty or spicy foods, do x-rays and undergo physiotherapy of any kind. One hour before the analysis, you should not smoke, drink coffee or tea.

Useful Information
Decreased hemoglobin is more common than commonly believed.It is diagnosed in about a third of women, and 8% have iron deficiency anemia. According to the WHO, 1.62 billion people currently suffer from this pathology.

The norm of hemoglobin in women

As already mentioned, the boundaries of the norm shift depending on the age and condition of the woman. The norm of hemoglobin in the blood in women is 120–140 g / l. In adolescents under 18 years of age, the boundaries are wider – from 112 to 153 g / l. For smoking women and professional athletes, the upper limit of the norm is higher – 150 and 160 g / l, respectively.

The level of hemoglobin can change during the gestation of a child – the norm of hemoglobin in the blood of pregnant women is 105–120 g / l. Such changes are caused by the fact that a large amount of hemoglobin is spent on the growth of the placenta and fetus, and the total blood volume increases significantly.

After the onset of 70 years of age, the rate changes again and is 117–160 g / l.

Small fluctuations within the normal range are acceptable, but if the amount of hemoglobin is much less or more than normal, it is worth worrying.Low or high hemoglobin in women may indicate pathological processes that require immediate medical attention.

Reasons for high hemoglobin level in the blood in women

High hemoglobin can be said when its amount is 20-30 g / l higher than the upper limit of the norm, although this situation is not considered dangerous in most cases. If the content of this protein is 180-190 g / l, then we are talking about a serious violation.

Such high hemoglobin in women leads to the fact that the blood becomes thicker, moves slower and does not supply the cells with oxygen.If you do not take any measures, the situation can lead to the formation of blood clots in the vessels and other dangerous consequences. High hemoglobin is characteristic of a number of diseases, in particular, diabetes mellitus, intestinal obstruction, and some heart and lung diseases. Hemoglobin also rises with burns and dehydration, but in this case, its level is restored after healing or the intake of a sufficient amount of fluid in the body.

Indirect signs of increased hemoglobin – decreased performance, impairment of memory, vision and concentration, cold and blue tips of fingers and toes, drowsiness, irritability and loss of appetite.If all of these symptoms are familiar to you, do not delay the visit to a general practitioner or general practitioner.

How to reduce the level to normal

High hemoglobin in women is almost always a sign of a disease, so you need to start with identifying and treating the underlying disease. However, there is also symptomatic therapy designed to lower hemoglobin levels.

Diet . With high hemoglobin, iron-rich foods should be avoided – these include red meat, liver and other offal, apples, pears, black currants, beets, eggs, and cottage cheese.The meat should be replaced with beans or tofu.

Medicines . With high hemoglobin, blood thinners are prescribed – antiplatelet agents. These medicines reduce the risk of blood clots. But you cannot take them uncontrollably – high hemoglobin can be caused by a disease in which such medications are strictly contraindicated.

Degrees of low hemoglobin level in the blood

Low hemoglobin level in the blood in women is more common than high.This condition is called anemia. There are several degrees of anemia:

  • Mild – the hemoglobin level drops to 90 g / l. Mild anemia is often diagnosed by chance during a blood test, since symptoms at this stage are mild. Sometimes patients complain of weakness and fatigue, loss of appetite, sweating.
  • Medium – the hemoglobin level is 70–90 g / l. In addition to symptoms characteristic of a mild degree, patients note frequent dizziness.The skin becomes dry and rough, cracks and ulcers appear in the corners of the lips, digestive problems begin (flatulence, constipation, diarrhea) and tachycardia.
  • Severe degree – hemoglobin level 70 g / l and below. Fainting and severe dizziness are added to all of the above symptoms, which are accompanied by flashing flies before the eyes, anorexia, and cessation of menstruation. With severe anemia, the skin becomes pale, hair and nails brittle and dull. Numbness of the extremities is characteristic, the arms and legs freeze all the time, stomatitis develops, the teeth begin to collapse.A person gets tired even after the smallest exertion, for example, climbing stairs may require a full half hour of rest.

Causes of low hemoglobin in women

In some cases, diseases of the internal organs become the culprit for anemia, in others – an unhealthy lifestyle and an unbalanced diet. The most common risk factors are:

Excessive emotional stress . Stress is often accompanied by a loss of appetite, as a result of which a person receives a lack of nutrients, including iron.

Strict diets . Many diets are extremely unhealthy, especially mono diets. A diet based on the intake of one product does not contain enough vitamins and minerals for the body. Meanwhile, for the prevention of anemia, not only iron is required, but also substances that promote its absorption – vitamins B12 and C, as well as folic acid. Passion for vegetarianism and veganism can also lead to anemia. The main sources of iron are meat and by-products.Iron, which is found in vegetables and fruits, is much less absorbed. Sometimes the cause of anemia is an addiction to foods that impair the absorption of iron – a person can get enough of it from food, but the body is no longer able to put iron into business. These include chocolate, tea and coffee.

Blood loss . Anemia is a common consequence of surgery, childbirth, uterine bleeding and heavy menstruation. However, the bleeding may not be so obvious.Bleeding from bowel ulcers and hemorrhoids can also lead to anemia.

Thyroid diseases . Thyroid hormones regulate many processes in the body, including the absorption of iron.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract , in particular – gastritis, gastric ulcer and intestinal ulcer. They affect the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, and this also interferes with the absorption of the gland.

Hematopoietic disorders .Many infectious and autoimmune diseases cause early death of red blood cells and, as a consequence, lead to a stable decrease in hemoglobin levels.

Methods for the prevention and treatment of various degrees of anemia

The first step in the treatment of anemia is the diagnosis and treatment of the disease that caused this condition. In parallel with the course of therapy, it is necessary to carry out symptomatic treatment.

Diet . With a low hemoglobin level, it is recommended to eat more red meat and offal, eggs, dried fruits (especially figs, raisins, prunes and dried apricots), beans and buckwheat dishes, green apples, green leafy vegetables such as spinach and arugula.From drinks, apple and pomegranate juices, rosehip broth are preferred, and coffee and tea should be completely abandoned.

Vitamin therapy and supplements . Often, one dietary change is not enough, you need to additionally take iron supplements in combination with vitamin C and folic acid. As a prophylactic agent, the intake of hematogen is shown – a sweet tile resembling an iris with a high content of iron and albumin. Hematogen can replace chocolate, which is contraindicated in case of anemia.However, before taking such funds, you need to consult your doctor.

Hemoglobin level is one of the most important indicators of health, and it must be monitored by regularly donating blood for analysis. This applies to everyone, but it is especially important to control the concentration of hemoglobin for expectant mothers and women of age.

Increased blood hemoglobin in women, children, men

Why can high hemoglobin be dangerous?

In erythrocytes, as you know, there is a special protein, hemoglobin, 80% consisting of iron: heme molecules that carry oxygen, and many amino acid molecules that ensure the stability of hemoglobin.Through the bloodstream, oxygen, necessary for normal healthy life, is delivered to all, even the smallest cells of the body.

In the process of oxygenation of cells, the energy necessary for the assimilation of nutrients is generated. Cellular respiration (food oxidation reactions) promotes the formation of carbon dioxide molecules, which are transported by red blood cells to the lungs and then excreted from the body.

If there is not enough hemoglobin, oxygen starvation occurs, but if there is too much of it, the concentration of red blood cells increases and, accordingly, the blood becomes thicker.Excessive blood viscosity and poor circulation leads to impaired oxygen microcirculation, the formation of blood clots, and sickle cell anemia. The presence of high hemoglobin in a child often contributes to a delay in his development.

An excess of hemoglobin may well turn out to be an individual feature of the organism, but quite often it still indicates the existence of a disease.

How does a high hemoglobin level manifest

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Impaired mental activity due to circulatory problems in the cerebral region
  • Fatigue
  • Numbness of certain parts of the body
  • Pale skin and cyanosis of lips and fingertips
  • Loss of appetite
  • Malfunctions of the genitourinary system
  • The appearance of tumors is possible
  • Hearing and vision impairment possible

Causes of pathology

An increased amount of hemoglobin in erythrocytes may be the result of natural processes occurring in the body, and is not a threatening sign.A similar process takes place, for example:

  • during pregnancy
  • in people living high above sea level, where a lack of oxygen in the air provokes an increased production of red blood cells
  • for intensely exercising athletes whose body also requires more oxygen

As for the pathological processes that cause excess hemoglobin, according to Tibetan doctors, their cause lies in the energy imbalance.For example, the accumulation of “bad” blood, the occurrence of stagnation and metabolic disorders are often promoted by indignation of the vital principle “bile”. It is caused by negative emotions, such as anger, irritability, aggression, and an unreasonable lifestyle (inactivity, addiction to junk food, frequent overwork). This is how “heat diseases” appear.

A special place among the reasons for the appearance of high hemoglobin in men and in women belongs to bad habits, in particular smoking.The smoker systematically lacks oxygen, inhaling smoke instead, and abuse of alcohol or chemicals (drugs, drugs, steroids) provokes increased oxidation and accumulation of free radicals in the body.

The reason for the increase in blood viscosity may be

  1. Dehydration due to increased blood volume and red blood cell content
  2. Vitamin B12 deficiency
  3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema, bronchitis, COPD itself) and impaired respiratory function
  4. Regular airway problems contributing to oxygen deficiency
  5. Heart disorders.Pre-stroke or pre-infarction conditions, congenital heart disease, atherosclerosis and other ailments causing deoxygenation of the blood
  6. Gallstone disease
  7. Diabetes mellitus. An increase in glucose levels, resulting in an excess of glycosylated hemoglobin
  8. Cancer diseases (for example, liver cancer, kidney cancer, erythremia, etc.)

The Tibetan Approach to Restoring Normal Hemoglobin Levels

First of all, it must be remembered that the content of hemoglobin in the blood above the normal is not a 100% sign of the disease.It is necessary to understand the reasons why special diagnostics are used in the clinics of Tibetan medicine. It includes:

  • Poll. It is held at a preliminary free meeting of the patient and his future personal doctor and includes a detailed conversation about the patient’s character, his lifestyle, events preceding the onset of anxiety symptoms
  • Inspection
  • Pulse diagnostics to find energy imbalances and determine the true cause of the disease

Treatment of any disease should eliminate the root cause of the disease and be comprehensive, according to the doctors of Tibetan medicine.Therefore, for a successful recovery, the active participation of the patient himself is required.

According to the recommendations of a specialist it is necessary

  1. Review your eating, motor and behavioral habits
  2. Observe in the diet the restriction of “hot” and “warm” products (meat, chocolate, coffee, cheese, etc.)
  3. Adhere to rational physical activity
  4. Maintain inner calmness when stress arises
  5. Provide the body with energy harmony

Tibetan Internal Medicine

Not a single center of Tibetan medicine, as well as the “Naran” clinic, can do without the use of herbal remedies, which include ginseng, ginger, rose hips and other plants popular in oriental medicine.They help to increase immunity, restore healthy blood circulation and purify the blood, lower cholesterol levels, and normalize carbohydrate metabolism.

External treatments

  • Acupuncture
  • Deep acupressure
  • Cupping massage
  • Mongolian oil-herbal massage “Horma”
  • Moxotherapy (warming with wormwood cigars)
  • Auriculotherapy
  • Hirudotherapy is one of the best ways to correct the hemoglobin content, which has a prolonged effect

REMINDER advice to donor with high hemoglobin

City center for transfusiology, health care institution
“6th City Clinical Hospital”

A high level of hemoglobin in a healthy person
and ways to normalize it

REMINDER TO DONOR

Hemoglobin is a protein that is part of red blood cells, containing iron.Its main task is to deliver oxygen to organ cells. A high level of hemoglobin promotes blood thickening, which causes blood clots to form, blocking blood vessels. People who have primary polycythemia (high hemoglobin and red blood cells) should be aware that it can pose serious complications.

If the hemoglobin level is increased in men more than 170 g / l, in women – more than 160 g / l), then this does not necessarily indicate a disease. External factors may be the cause:

  • In people living in highlands, low oxygen levels force the body to produce more hemoglobin;
  • 90,023 men and women who often fly on airplanes – pilots and flight attendants – may also have a higher hemoglobin, which in their case will be considered normal;

  • for athletes engaged in heavy, active sports such as triathlon, mountaineering, skiing and speed skating
  • when taking anabolic steroids;
  • with active smoking.

Scientists suggest that an increase in hemoglobin during smoking is a protective reaction of the body to a low oxygen content in the lungs, which resembles breathing thin air in high altitude conditions.