What happens if hemoglobin is low

Imagine you’re just going about your day, but you feel tired and weak. You might also find it hard to breathe, even if you haven’t done much. These could be signs of low hemoglobin levels, a problem that affects many people around the world¹.

Hemoglobin is a key protein in red blood cells. It carries oxygen to all parts of your body. If you have low hemoglobin, it can affect your health and how you feel.

There are many reasons why hemoglobin levels might be low. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common reason². Pregnant women, people with heavy periods, and those with chronic diseases like cancer or kidney failure are more likely to have low hemoglobin²¹.

Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, bone marrow disorders, and inherited conditions like sickle cell anemia².

The symptoms of low hemoglobin can vary. They can be mild or severe, depending on the cause and how bad the anemia is. If not treated, low hemoglobin can cause serious problems. These include severe tiredness, pregnancy issues, heart problems, and even life-threatening conditions in some cases².

Key Takeaways

• Hemoglobin is a crucial protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
• Low hemoglobin levels can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
• Iron deficiency anemia is the most common cause of low hemoglobin.
• Certain populations, such as pregnant women and people with chronic diseases, are at a higher risk of low hemoglobin.
• Untreated low hemoglobin can lead to serious complications, so it’s essential to address the underlying cause.

Understanding Hemoglobin and Its Role in the Body

Hemoglobin is a key protein in red blood cells. It helps carry oxygen around your body. About 70 percent of the body’s iron is in hemoglobin³. This iron makes blood red and helps it carry oxygen to tissues and organs.

What is Hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a big protein made of α and β chains⁴. It has a molecular weight of about 64,500 daltons. In most people, about 97% of their hemoglobin is Hb A⁴.

Normal hemoglobin levels are 14 to 18 g/dl for men and 12 to 16 g/dl for women⁴. The body needs iron, vitamin B-12, and folate to make hemoglobin and red blood cells.

An average adult male has about 1,000 mg of iron³. Women have about 300 mg, enough for about six months³.

How Hemoglobin Carries Oxygen

Hemoglobin’s main job is to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues. It also takes carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Different hemoglobins, like Hb S, help oxygen reach tissues better in sickle cell anemia⁴.

Research has looked at how different abnormal hemoglobins work⁵. It has also studied the structure and function of various hemoglobin types⁵.

Knowing how hemoglobin works is key to staying healthy. Eating right, with enough iron, vitamin B-12, and folate, helps make healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin.

Causes of Low Hemoglobin Levels

Low hemoglobin levels can come from many sources. These include blood loss, not making enough red blood cells, or losing red blood cells too fast. Knowing why you have low hemoglobin helps your doctor find the right treatment.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common kind. It happens when your body doesn’t have enough iron for hemoglobin. This can be due to heavy menstrual bleeding in women⁶, or bleeding in the digestive tract from ulcers, cancers, or hemorrhoids⁶.

Not getting enough iron from food or not absorbing it well can also cause this anemia.

Vitamin Deficiency Anemia

Vitamin deficiency anemia comes from not eating enough vitamins like B-12 and folate. Or, it can happen if your body can’t absorb these vitamins well. Pernicious anemia, for example, is when you can’t absorb vitamin B-12 because of a lack of intrinsic factor.

Conditions like celiac disease or chronic pancreatitis can also stop your body from absorbing these important nutrients.

Chronic Diseases and Inflammation

Chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis can cause anemia of inflammation⁶. In these cases, your body can’t make enough red blood cells. This is because it doesn’t respond well to erythropoietin, a hormone that helps make red blood cells.

Some medicines, like chemotherapy drugs for cancer or antiretroviral drugs for HIV, can also lower hemoglobin levels⁶.

Other things that can lower hemoglobin levels include an enlarged spleen, hemolysis, and genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia⁶. Women with menstrual periods and pregnant women are also more likely to have low hemoglobin counts⁶.

In the United States, doctors say you have anemia if your hemoglobin is below 13.5 g/dL for men and 12.0 g/dL for women⁷. Severe anemia is when hemoglobin is between 6.5–7.9 g/dL. Levels below 6.5 g/dL are very dangerous⁷.

If you think you might have low hemoglobin, see your doctor right away. They can help find out why and how to fix it. This way, you can get your hemoglobin back to normal and feel better.

Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin

When your hemoglobin levels drop, you may feel tired and weak. These symptoms can get worse as your anemia gets more serious. It’s important to know the signs and get help if you think you have low hemoglobin.

Fatigue and Weakness

Feeling tired and weak is a common sign of low hemoglobin. You might feel very tired even after sleeping well. This is because your body doesn’t get enough oxygen.

About one-third of the world’s people are iron deficient⁸. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type⁸.

Shortness of Breath

Low hemoglobin can make it hard to breathe, especially when you’re active. You might gasp for air going up stairs or walking a bit. In bad cases, you might breathe hard even when sitting still.

This happens because your body doesn’t get enough oxygen for breathing⁹.

Pale or Yellowish Skin

Anemia can make your skin look pale or yellowish. This is because hemoglobin gives blood its red color. When levels are low, your skin looks paler.

You might also see paleness in your gums, nail beds, and eyelids.

“I was always tired and my skin looked so pale. I didn’t realize it was because of my low hemoglobin levels until my doctor diagnosed me with anemia.”

Headaches and Dizziness

Low hemoglobin can cause headaches and dizziness. This is because your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen. You might feel dizzy or have a headache that throbs.

These symptoms can be dangerous, especially if you’re driving or using heavy machinery. Severe iron deficiency anemia can lead to heart problems, pregnancy issues, and growth problems in kids⁹.

Other symptoms of low hemoglobin include:

• Irregular heartbeat⁹
• Chest pain⁹
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle nails
• Mouth ulcers
• Increased menstrual bleeding in women⁹
• An inflamed or sore tongue

In extreme cases, anemia can cause shortness of breath at rest, a bluish color to the whites of the eyes, and pica syndrome (a desire to eat non-food items like ice). Mild anemia has a hemoglobin level between 10 and 10.9 grams per deciliter. Moderate anemia is between 7 and 10 grams per deciliter. Severe anemia is less than 7 grams per deciliter⁸.

Diagnosing Low Hemoglobin

If you feel tired, weak, or have trouble breathing, see a doctor. They can check if you have low hemoglobin. A blood test called a complete blood count (CBC) is usually used. It checks your blood’s red cells and hemoglobin.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test

The CBC test looks at your blood closely. It checks your hematocrit, which is the red blood cells in your blood. For adults, normal values are between 40% and 52% for men and 35% and 47% for women¹⁰.

It also checks your hemoglobin levels. Normal values for adults are 14 to 18 grams per deciliter for men and 12 to 16 grams per deciliter for women¹⁰. If these levels are low, your doctor will do more tests to find out why.

Additional Tests to Determine the Cause

After finding low hemoglobin, your doctor will try to find the reason. They might do more blood tests, like:

• Iron studies to check for iron deficiency anemia
• Vitamin B12 and folate tests to screen for vitamin deficiency anemias
• Reticulocyte count to assess how well your bone marrow is producing new red blood cells
• Hemoglobin electrophoresis to identify abnormal hemoglobin types, such as those found in sickle cell anemia or thalassemia

In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy might be needed. This test looks at your bone marrow’s health and function.

Anemia affects almost 6% of the U.S. population. Women, young children, and people with long-term diseases are more at risk¹¹. By working with your doctor and doing the right tests, you can find out why your hemoglobin is low. Then, you can get the right treatment to feel better.

Risks and Complications of Low Hemoglobin

Low hemoglobin levels can make you very tired. This makes simple tasks hard and lowers your quality of life. About one-fourth of people have anemia¹².

Pregnant women with low folate levels are at risk of serious pregnancy problems. These include early birth¹³. Iron-deficiency anemia is common, especially after gastric bypass surgery or during pregnancy¹³.

Low hemoglobin can also harm the heart. It can cause irregular heartbeat and heart failure. The heart works harder because of less oxygen in the blood. In 2000, 18% of people with chronic heart disease had anemia¹².

Anemia is linked to other diseases like kidney disease. This is because the kidney doesn’t make enough hormone for red blood cells¹³.

Inherited anemias, like sickle cell anemia, can be deadly. New treatments help people with sickle cell live longer, into their 50s¹⁴. Severe thalassemia can also be fatal, especially before age 30. But, treatments like blood transfusions can help¹⁴.

Aplastic anemia is a rare disorder where the bone marrow fails. It can be caused by viruses, radiation, or chemicals¹³. A bone marrow transplant can cure it in those under 40. But, those over 40 or without a match are treated with drugs. Up to 50% of these patients may have a relapse or develop another blood disorder¹⁴.

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Treating Low Hemoglobin Levels

When treating low hemoglobin levels, the method depends on the cause. Nearly 3 million people in the United States have anemia¹⁵. Treatment can include supplements, fortified foods, injections, and sometimes, red blood cell transfusions. Let’s look at these options more closely.

Addressing the Underlying Cause

The first step is to find and fix the cause. For iron deficiency anemia, doctors might suggest iron supplements and diet changes. If it’s a vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, they might prescribe supplements or suggest certain foods.

Iron Supplements and Dietary Changes

If iron deficiency is the issue, iron supplements are often recommended. These supplements slowly raise iron levels, helping hemoglobin¹⁵. Eating foods high in iron can also help. But, too much iron can cause liver disease¹⁵.

Iron supplements need to be taken for months to fully replenish iron. Patients may start feeling better after a week or so¹⁶. However, they might experience constipation as a side effect¹⁶.

To boost iron intake, change your diet. Include:

• Red meat
• Poultry
• Fish
• Beans
• Dark green leafy vegetables
• Dried fruit
• Iron-fortified cereals and breads

Vitamin B12 and Folate Supplementation

If B12 or folate deficiency is the problem, supplements are a solution. B12 can be taken orally or through injections, depending on the deficiency’s severity. Folate supplements are usually taken by mouth. The body absorbs 85% of folate acid supplements, compared to 50% in foods¹⁵.

Foods rich in vitamin B12 include:

• Meat
• Fish
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Fortified cereals

Foods rich in folate include:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Fruits
• Nuts
• Beans
• Fortified cereals and breads

Blood Transfusions in Severe Cases

In severe cases, blood transfusions may be needed. This treatment quickly raises hemoglobin levels and relieves symptoms¹⁷. Blood transfusions involve receiving blood from a donor with a compatible blood type. This option is usually for cases where other treatments have failed or when anemia is life-threatening.

¹⁵

Treating iron deficiency anemia might involve oral contraceptives, antibiotics, surgery, intravenous iron, or blood transfusions in severe cases¹⁶. Patients may need iron supplements for a year or longer to fully replenish iron reserves¹⁶.

Remember, the key to effectively treating low hemoglobin levels is to work closely with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

Preventing Low Hemoglobin Levels

Not all anemia types can be stopped, but you can lower your risk. Eating well and getting regular health checks are key. These steps help prevent anemia¹¹.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet is crucial. It should include foods rich in iron, folate, vitamin B-12, and vitamin C. This helps avoid iron and vitamin deficiency anemias¹⁸.

Here are some foods to add to your diet:

• Red meat, poultry, and fish
• Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale
• Legumes, including lentils, peas, and beans
• Iron-fortified cereals and breads
• Citrus fruits and other sources of vitamin C

Vitamin C helps your body absorb more iron. So, eat foods rich in vitamin C with iron-rich foods. For example, try a spinach salad with mandarin oranges or add lemon juice to grilled fish¹⁵.

Regular Check-ups and Screening

Regular health checks and screenings are vital. They help find low hemoglobin levels early. This allows for quick treatment and management. This is especially important for:

• Women of child-bearing age, who risk iron-deficiency anemia from menstrual blood loss¹⁸
• Pregnant women, who need more iron for fetal growth and to prevent anemia in their children¹⁸
• Vegans and vegetarians, who might lack enough iron in their diet¹¹
• People with chronic conditions, like kidney disease, cancer, or autoimmune disorders, which can affect red blood cell production¹¹

If you’re in a high-risk group, talk to your doctor about anemia screening. Early action can prevent serious problems from low hemoglobin levels¹¹.

Nearly 3 million people in the United States have anemia, making it the most common blood condition¹⁵¹¹. By focusing on a healthy diet and regular health checks, you can keep your hemoglobin levels in check and stay healthy.

Hemoglobin Levels in Specific Populations

Hemoglobin is key for everyone. But some groups need extra care to keep their levels right. This includes pregnant women, kids, teens, and the elderly.

Pregnant Women and Low Hemoglobin

Pregnancy changes a woman’s body a lot. It needs more iron for the baby. Pregnant women should have more than 11 g/dL of hemoglobin¹⁹.

They need about 27 mg of iron each day¹⁹. Eating foods high in iron, like lean meats and leafy greens, helps. Taking iron supplements is also important. Plus, folic acid is key for the baby’s health.

Hemoglobin Levels in Children and Adolescents

Kids and teens need enough hemoglobin for growing. Iron deficiency anemia is common in them. It’s often due to bad eating habits or genetic issues.

Studies show how hemoglobin levels vary in different groups, like young men in Norway²⁰. Regular health checks can spot and treat low hemoglobin in young people. This ensures they get the nutrients they need.

Elderly Individuals and Anemia Risk

Older people face a higher risk of anemia. This is because of chronic conditions, changes in how they absorb nutrients, and side effects from medicines. The World Health Organization has guidelines for diagnosing anemia in the elderly²⁰.

Checking hemoglobin levels often and making healthy lifestyle choices can prevent anemia in seniors. This helps them stay healthy and active.

Knowing the special needs for different groups helps doctors give better care. This ensures everyone can keep their hemoglobin levels healthy throughout their lives.

Living with Low Hemoglobin

Dealing with low hemoglobin can be tough. But, you can improve your life by managing fatigue well. Make sure to prioritize tasks, pace yourself, and rest enough.

Eating a balanced diet is key. Include iron-rich foods like lean meats, leafy greens, and legumes. Also, drink plenty of water and do gentle exercises like walking or yoga.

Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Modifications

Changing your lifestyle helps manage low hemoglobin. Here are some tips:

• Break tasks into smaller steps to save energy
• Take breaks during the day to avoid getting too tired
• Use tools or ask for help with hard tasks
• Try stress-reducing activities like deep breathing or meditation
• Talk openly with your doctor about your symptoms

These changes can make living with low hemoglobin easier. Always listen to your body and adjust your plans.

Support Groups and Resources

Connecting with others who understand can be very helpful. Family and friends are key in managing anemia²¹. Look for support groups online or in your area.

Use educational resources from healthcare groups and websites. They can help with managing symptoms and finding treatments. Up to 75% of people find talking therapy helpful for anxiety and depression related to anemia²¹.

You’re not alone in this. Using support and resources can help you manage your condition better. With the right help, living with low hemoglobin can be more manageable. You can then enjoy life more fully.

Conclusion

Low hemoglobin levels can really affect your health and life quality. Knowing the signs like tiredness, weakness, and pale skin is key²². These signs might mean you have anemia.

Anemia is more common in poorer countries. It can make you weaker and less strong as you get older²². Getting tested and diagnosed is the first step to feeling better.

Treatment depends on why your hemoglobin is low. It could be because of iron or vitamin shortages, or other health issues. Your doctor might suggest iron pills, changing your diet, or even blood transfusions.

Research on hemoglobin has helped a lot in medicine over the years²³. Hemoglobin carries oxygen to your body’s tissues. It also helps with other gases like carbon dioxide and nitric oxide²³.

To avoid low hemoglobin, eat foods full of iron, B12, and folate. Regular health checks can catch anemia early. This way, you can get treatment quickly.

Older people with low hemoglobin are at risk of getting weaker and losing strength²². By knowing your health and making good choices, you can keep your hemoglobin levels up. This will help you stay healthy and feel better.