Hemoglobin test at home

What function does hemoglobin have in the body?

The hemoglobin protein ensures that both oxygen and carbon dioxide are transported through our bodies. This is because when we breathe in, oxygen particles attach to hemoglobin proteins. Through the blood, they are transported to our organs, where the hemoglobin proteins then release them. The hemoglobin also transports carbon dioxide from the tissues, back to the lungs where it can be exhaled. Thus, these hemoglobin proteins make up as much as a third of our red blood cells, of which about 1% are renewed every day.

What does the Hb level mean?

The Hb is the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. The level of hemoglobin in a blood sample is expressed in millimoles per liter (mmol/l) or in grams per deciliter (g/dl), depending on the laboratory.

What substance does your body need to make hemoglobin?

In order to make hemoglobin, your body needs iron. In addition, folic acid (vitamin B11) and vitamin B12 are also needed to make the Hb protein. Hemoglobin is then built into the red blood cell, where it can perform its function.

When can you talk about a normal value hemoglobin?

Normal values for hemoglobin depend on the laboratory and thus may differ slightly from one another. The normal values are shown below. A normal value Hb is different for men and women.

• Adult males: 8.5-11 mmol/l
• Adult females: 7.5-10 mmol/l
• Pregnant women: 6.3 mmol/l

What causes Hb levels to be too low or too high?

Too low a hemoglobin level can be due to poor red blood cell production, after all: hemoglobin is a component of the red blood cell. Also, when red blood cells are broken down too quickly, low Hb levels can occur. In addition, deficiencies in vitamins (vitamin B11, vitamin B12) and minerals (iron) or blood loss can still lead to hemoglobin deficiency.

Too high a hemoglobin level can be due to a particular condition, but it can also be caused by dehydration, where there is a relative excess of hemoglobin over fluid in the blood. Also, heart failure or lung disease can cause excessive hemoglobin. Too much hemoglobin leads to viscous blood, whose viscosity is increased. This can lead to clot formation.

What are the consequences of an Hb level that is too low or too high?

Too low a level of hemoglobin will eventually lead to the tissues in the body not receiving enough oxygen. Then it is referred to as anemia. Too high a value can cause blood clots, or thrombosis.

What are the symptoms of hemoglobin deficiency?

• Fatigue
• Weakening of the muscles
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Heart palpitations
• Headache
• Earaches
• Excessive sweating
• Pale skin
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle nails
• Inflammations in the mouth

How can I solve a hemoglobin deficiency?

Depending on how severe your deficit is, you need to make other efforts. If you have a severe deficiency, it is best to discuss with your doctor what treatment and follow-up is right for you. With a less severe deficiency, you can increase your hemoglobin levels by eating a sufficient and balanced diet and ensuring adequate intake of vitamin B11, vitamin B12 and iron.

When is the best time to take a blood test Hb?

If you suspect something is wrong with your blood, it is a good idea to have the hemoglobin levels in your blood checked. Even when you’ve lost a lot of blood, it’s best to check that all the values in your blood are still up to par.
On this page you can buy an Hb test so you can easily test yourself at home every time from now on.

When does anemia become dangerous?

When too low a hemoglobin level becomes dangerous depends on the situation. A dangerously low hemoglobin concentration calls for supplementation, or the administration of hemoglobin. There is then a need for blood transfusion. In the hospital, it is common to apply the 4-5-6 rule to determine whether transfusion of blood (containing hemoglobin) is actually necessary. After all, a transfusion is not without possible danger either. Broadly speaking, this rule boils down to the following: the healthier the person and the less complex or urgent the clinical picture, the lower the hemoglobin may be before proceeding with supplementation. For example, a person with an Hb of 6 may already be supplemented if he or she meets certain severe criteria, and a person with an Hb of 5 may not yet be supplemented if he or she is otherwise healthy.