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Hemoglobin (Hb) is part of the red blood cells in our body. It is important to maintain a healthy hemoglobin level to feel our best and ensure our body can function properly. When our hemoglobin value is too high or too low, physical complaints can arise.
Table of Contents
- What is Hemoglobin?
- Why is hemoglobin important?
- What is an optimal hemoglobin value?
- Causes and symptoms of low hemoglobin
- Causes and symptoms high hemoglobin?
- How do I increase my hemoglobin level?
- Summary
What is Hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is a protein that allows for the absorption and transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in red blood cells. The red blood cells in our body ensure the delivery of oxygen from the lungs to our body’s cells. Oxygen allows your muscles and organs to obtain energy from the food you eat, also known as cellular respiration. After the oxygen is released to the cells, hemoglobin is then able to absorb carbon dioxide which ends up in the lungs. The carbon dioxide then leaves the body through exhalation (Sanquin).
Why is hemoglobin important?
Hemoglobin is essential for maintaining healthy oxygen levels in your body. A hemoglobin deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition where the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to tissues. Conversely, excessively high hemoglobin levels may be a sign of dehydration, chronic lung disease, or other underlying conditions, and can increase the risk of blood clots or stroke.
Because hemoglobin reflects how well your body transports oxygen, it is a key marker in many health checks and blood tests, including complete blood counts (CBCs) and at-home blood tests.
What is an optimal hemoglobin value?
Normal hemoglobin levels vary based on age, sex, and other factors such as pregnancy. They can be expressed in mmol/L (millimoles per liter) or g/dL (grams per deciliter), depending on the country or lab. Here’s a general overview:
| Group | Normal Range (g/dL) | Normal Range (mmol/L) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult males | 13,8 – 17,2 g/dL | 8,5 – 11 mmol/L |
| Adult females | 12,1 – 16,1 g/dL | 7,5 – 10 mmol/L |
| Children > 6 years | 10,5 – 16,1 g/dL | 6,5 – 10 mmol/L |
| Children 1 month – 6 years | 9,7 – 14,5 g/dL | 6 – 9 mmol/L |
Source: Dutch Association of Hematology
Values slightly outside these ranges may not indicate a health problem, but persistently high or low values should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Causes and symptoms of low hemoglobin
A low hemoglobin level is often a sign of anemia. There are several types of anemia, each with different causes:
- Iron-deficiency anemia – due to poor iron intake or blood loss (e.g. menstruation, ulcers)
- Vitamin deficiency anemia – caused by low levels of vitamin B12 or folate
- Chronic disease anemia – linked to long-term illnesses like kidney disease
- Aplastic anemia – when the body stops producing enough red blood cells
- Hemolytic anemia – when red blood cells are destroyed too quickly
- Inherited disorders – such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia
Common symptoms of low hemoglobin include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Cold hands and feet
- Headache
- Pale or yellowish skin
Source: Máxima MC, 2022
Causes and symptoms high hemoglobin
While less common, high hemoglobin levels can occur due to:
- Smoking – reduces oxygen availability, prompting the body to make more red blood cells
- Living at high altitudes – where less oxygen is available
- Lung diseases – such as COPD or pulmonary fibrosis
- Dehydration – which concentrates blood components
- Bone marrow disorders – like polycythemia vera
- Performance-enhancing drugs – such as erythropoietin (EPO)
Symptoms of high hemoglobin may include:
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Red or flushed skin
- High blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Nosebleeds
Extremely high hemoglobin can increase the risk of blood clots, strokes, or heart attacks.
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How do I increase my hemoglobin level?
When you have low hemoglobin, it is important to consume more iron. There is iron in all kinds of foods, such as meat, fish, chicken, legumes, and vegetables such as spinach. It is also possible to use an iron supplement. It is advisable to check your hemoglobin level a few months after making dietary changes to see if any improvements have been made. Contact your GP if you require more advice on how to increase your hemoglobin level.
Summary
Hemoglobin is a vital protein that ensures your body gets the oxygen it needs. Both low and high levels can point to underlying health issues, so understanding your numbers is key. While symptoms of abnormal hemoglobin can vary, regular testing and a healthy lifestyle can help keep your levels in check.
References
Bloedarmoede – Máxima MC. (2017, September 27). Interne Geneeskunde. https://www.mmc.nl/internegeneeskunde/aandoeningen-en-behandelingen/bloedarmoede/?_ga=2.252499337.1416331597.1669584503-555177933.1667906179
Isala. (2021, November). Hematologische aandoening (PID): H2 Optionele bijlage Myeloproliferatieve aandoeningen. https://www.isala.nl/patientenfolders/6551-hematologische-aandoening-pid-h2-optionele-bijlage-myeloproliferatieve-aandoeningen/?_ga=2.152885433.1416331597.1669584503-555177933.1667906179
Nederlandse Internisten Vereniging. (2020, January 30). Normaalwaarden ». https://hematologienederland.nl/patientinfo/diagnose-en-behandeling/normaalwaarden/?_ga=2.152885433.1416331597.1669584503-555177933.1667906179
Wat is hemoglobine en welke waarde is normaal? | Sanquin . (n.d.). https://www.sanquin.nl/. https://www.sanquin.nl/over-bloed/eiwitten/hemoglobine?gclid=CjwKCAiA9tyQBhAIEiwA6tdCrFiDOf8-HC_ZusmDi4mgn-M8LMrAeJTEQjFZNKA6m88-2BvbsODVIBoC7hEQAvD_BwE
