HEMOGLOBIN

 

HEMOGLOBIN ( Hb )

Hemoglobin is the most important component of red blood cells. It is composed of a protein called haem, which binds for carbon dioxide . Abnormilities of an individual’s hemoglobin value can indicate defects in the normal balance between red blood cell production and destruction. Both low and high values can indicate disease states.

Hemoglobin is a protein in red lood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the human body’s  tissues  & organs,it also carries carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

Hemoglobin is a most important  component of RBC(red blood cells) and gives them their colour.

How is hemoglobin measured

·         A hemoglobin test  measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood.

·         This test is usully part of a complet blood count(CBC)

·         The amount of hemoglobin in whole blood is expressed in grams per deciliter(g/dl)

Normal range of hemoglobin

·         Males                   :               14 to 18 g/dl (138-172 gram per liter(g/L )

·         Female                :               12 to 16 g/dl  ( 121 – 151 gram per liter (g/L )

·         Child                     :               newborn             :-  14 to 24 g/dL      ( 140 – 240 gram per liter (  g/L )

Infant                    :-    9.5 to 13.0 g/dL ( 95 – 130 gram per liter(g/L )

Cause of low hemoglobin

·         A diet that is too low in iron, folate, & vitamin B12

·         Significant bleeding

·         Pregnancy

·         Genetic conditions such as sickle cell anemia & Thalassemia.

·         Cancer leukemia & Lymphoma

Symptoms of low hemoglobin

·         Weakness

·         Headaches

·         Bleeding

·         Chest pain

·         Irregular heartbeat

·         Cold hand and feet

·         Fatigue

·         Dizziness

·         Paaler then usual skin

·         Shortness of breath

Increasing Hemoglobin

Affect of hemoglobin

Altitude,Diet,Activity , Certain medicines, Dehydration , Smoking , & genetic Conditions.

WHY THE TEST IS PERFORMED

The hemoglobin test is a common test and is also always done as part of a CBC. Reasons or conditions for ordering the HB% test include:-

·         Before & after major surgery

·         Blood in your stools, or vomiting.

·         Chronic medical problems, such as kidney disease or certain types of arthritis

·         During pregnancy

·         Fatigue, poor health, or unexplained weight loss

·         Headaches

·         Heavy flow menstrual problems

·         Leukemia & other bone marrow related problems

·         Monitoring during cancer treatment

·         Poor nutrition

 

Risks

There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins & arteries vary in size from one persons to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include:-

·         Excessive bleeding

·         Fainting or feeling lightheaded

·         Multiple punctures to locate veins

·         Hematoma  (blood buildup under the skin )

·         Infection ( a slight risk any time the skin is broken )