Hemoglobin (Hb)
Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. It gives blood its red color and plays a key role in the respiratory function of blood.
Normal hemoglobin values:
- Men: 130–160 g/L
- Women: 120–150 g/L
- Children: 110–140 g/L (depending on age)
- Pregnant women: 110–130 g/L
Causes of increased hemoglobin:
- Dehydration (fluid loss)
- Smoking
- Living at high altitudes (hypoxia)
- Erythrocytosis, polycythemia
- Heart and lung diseases
Causes of decreased hemoglobin:
- Anemias (iron deficiency, B12 deficiency, etc.)
- Blood loss (acute and chronic)
- Chronic inflammatory processes
- Pregnancy (physiological decrease)
- Kidney and liver diseases
Why hemoglobin level is measured:
- Diagnosis and monitoring of anemia
- Assessment of overall health status
- Preoperative preparation
- Monitoring during pregnancy
- Follow-up in chronic diseases
How the test is performed:
- Blood is drawn from a finger or vein, fasting
- Before the test, it is recommended to avoid smoking and physical exertion
Important: Low hemoglobin can cause weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and in severe anemia — shortness of breath and tachycardia. High hemoglobin increases blood viscosity and risk of thrombosis, heart attacks, and strokes.