The Role of Hemoglobin in the Blood

Hemoglobin (Hb) is the main component in your red blood cells. It carries oxygen to your tissues when you inhale, and when you exhale, it passes carbon dioxide out of your body. It is composed of "heme" and "globin" (hence, the name). Hemoglobin also contains iron, which is what turns your blood red when it leaves your body.

What is a hemoglobin count?

Also referred to as hemoglobin level, hemoglobin count indicates your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. A high or low count can signify different problems. There is also a test called hemoglobin electrophoresis, which is a blood test that checks the different types of hemoglobin in the blood (which can be used to diagnose certain types of anemia), checks treatment for diseases that have abnormal types of hemoglobin, and helps couples find out how likely they are to have a child with certain forms of anemia.

Significance of a low hemoglobin count

If your hemoglobin is too low, it means you have a below-average concentration of oxygen-carrying proteins in your blood. A low hemoglobin count is a common test result. If it is only slightly low, it isn't considered significant. However, low hemoglobin can be caused by anemia, an abnormality, or a disease. A low hemoglobin count is typically defined as less than 13.5 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter of blood for men and less than 12 grams per deciliter for women. The definition for children varies with age and sex, and may vary slightly between medical practices.

Significance of a high hemoglobin count

When your hemoglobin count is too high, you simply have an above-average concentration of oxygen-carrying proteins in your blood. A high hemoglobin count is not the same as a high red blood cell count; each cell in your blood may not have the same amount of hemoglobin proteins. The threshold for a high hemoglobin count is not always the same from one medical practice to another. It is generally defined as more than 17.5 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter of blood for men and 15.5 grams per deciliter for women. In children, the definition can vary with age and sex.

Hemoglobin is not only a part of the blood cells, but it is the main component. It plays an important role in carrying oxygen into your body and getting rid of carbon dioxide. A hemoglobin count is done to make sure there is not too much or too little hemoglobin in the blood. If there is, you could have one of various problems.

References

Hemoglobin Electrophoresis , WebMD

Low Hemoglobin Count , MayoClinic.com

High Hemoglobin Count , MayoClinic.com

** Note: This author does not claim to be a medical professional. If you are experiencing symptoms that may signify a type of blood disease, please consult with your doctor immediately.**