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Hemoglobin Test
What is a Hemoglobin Test?
A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your hemoglobin levels are abnormal, it may be a sign that you have a blood disorder.
Other names: Hb, Hgb
What is it used for?
A hemoglobin test is often used to check for anemia, a condition in which your body has fewer red blood cells than normal. If you have anemia, your cells don't get all the oxygen they need. Hemoglobin tests are also frequently performed with other tests, such as:
Hematocrit, which measures the percentage of red blood cells in your blood
Complete blood count, which measures the number and type of cells in your blood
Why do I need a hemoglobin test?
Your health care provider may have ordered the test as part of a routine exam, or if you have:
Symptoms of anemia, which include weakness, dizziness, pale skin, and cold hands and feet
A family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other inherited blood disorder
A diet low in iron and minerals
A long-term infection
Excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure
What happens during a hemoglobin test?
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?
You don't need any special preparations for a hemoglobin test. If your health care provider has also ordered other blood tests, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your health care provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
Are there any risks to the test?
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms usually go away quickly.
What do the results mean?
There are many reasons your hemoglobin levels may be outside the normal range.
Low hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
Different types of anemia
Thalassemia
Iron deficiency
Liver disease
Cancer and other diseases
High hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
Lung disease
Heart disease
Polycythemia vera, a disorder in which your body makes too many red blood cells. It can cause headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
If any of your levels are abnormal, it does not necessarily indicate a medical problem needing treatment. Diet, activity level, medications, a women's menstrual cycle, and other considerations can affect the results. In addition, you may have higher than normal hemoglobin if you live in a high altitude area. Talk to your health care provider to learn what your results mean.
Is there anything else I need to know about a hemoglobin test?
Some forms of anemia are mild, while other types of anemia can be serious and even life-threatening if not treated. If you are diagnosed with anemia, be sure to talk to your health care provider to find out the best treatment plan for you.
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