Hemoglobin
Blood cell systemHemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and delivers it to tissues throughout the body.
It also plays a role in transporting carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation.
Reference range
Female
Source: lab benchmark
Male
Source: lab benchmark
Reference ranges may vary between labs and assays. Always interpret results with your healthcare provider. · LOINC code: 718-7
Why this matters
Low hemoglobin (anemia) can lead to fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale skin due to reduced oxygen delivery. High hemoglobin (polycythemia) increases blood thickness, raising the risk of clots, headaches, and vision problems. Hemoglobin levels are influenced by iron, vitamin B12, folate intake, hydration, and chronic health conditions. Monitoring hemoglobin helps detect early red blood cell disorders and guides dietary or medical interventions to maintain healthy oxygen transport.
How this connects to other biomarkers
- Low Hemoglobin with low MCV (small red blood cells) and low Ferritin confirms iron-deficiency anemia; with high MCV (large red blood cells) consider Vitamin B12 or Folic acid (Vitamin B9) deficiency.
- Low Hgb with normal MCV and elevated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate / hs-CRP suggests anemia of chronic disease (inflammation suppressing red-cell production).
- Elevated Hgb with elevated Hematocrit can reflect dehydration or polycythemia (too many red cells, primary or secondary to low oxygen / EPO excess); persistent erythrocytosis warrants evaluation.
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