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Haemoglobin Test

Dr.Spurti KatimaniLast Updated on 9th February 2022

A protein produced by your bone marrow called Haemoglobin is present in your red blood cells. As a result, your red blood cells can transport oxygen from your lungs to other organs and tissues through your arteries. Additionally, it transports carbon dioxide from around your body back to your lungs. The blood cells in this category are recognizable by their red colour because of Haemoglobin. Haemoglobin tests determine the amount of this protein in your red blood cells.

What is the Haemoglobin test used for?What is included in the Haemoglobin test? Procedure for a Haemoglobin test How to prepare for the Haemoglobin Test?Things to consider after the Haemoglobin Test is complete!What types of infection can the Haemoglobin Test detect?How much does the Haemoglobin Test cost?Why book a Haemoglobin Test?Are there any risks involved with Haemoglobin Test?Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the Haemoglobin test used for?

The Haemoglobin test requires a sample of your blood to determine Haemoglobin levels. Sometimes, testing for Haemoglobin takes place as a part of a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC test also measures other essential components of your blood, such as white blood cells and platelets. Any abnormality in levels of these cells could indicate an underlying condition or blood disorder.

A parent or another family member suffers from a blood disorder, such as sickle cell disease.
There is an infection in your body.
Your diet lacks iron.
A traumatic injury or surgery caused you to lose plenty of blood.
Your pregnancy causes some abnormalities as well.
You may have another medical condition that affects Haemoglobin levels.

What is included in the Haemoglobin test?

A Haemoglobin test aims to check the Haemoglobin level in your blood. The Haemoglobin test generally provides three results, including:

Haemoglobin levels are within normal limits
They may be over the normal range, or
They may be below the normal range

Please review the following list of common symptoms of high and low Haemoglobin levels.

Low Haemoglobin levels are also called anaemi The cause of anaemia can be diverse, with a wide range of symptoms. Common anaemia symptoms can include:

Fatigue
Paleness of palm, skin and internal eyelids
breathing difficulties
irregular or rapid heartbeat
discomfort or pain in the chest
Generalised weakness
headache
Feeling tired after physical activity

Polycythemia refers to high Haemoglobin levels. The condition occurs when there is increased levels of Haemoglobin than the normal with or without an increase in the number of red blood cells

The following symptoms are associated with high Haemoglobin levels:

An itchy feeling
headache
nausea
easily getting bruised or bleeding
excessively sweating
Painful swelling of joints
Unusual weight loss
Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Fatigue
Leading to a reddish or purple hue to the skin

Procedure for a Haemoglobin test

An assessment of Haemoglobin level involves using a sample of your blood. This sample will then be stored in the vial to be examined later in the lab.

Book a Haemoglobin test to check your Haemoglobin level!

How to prepare for the Haemoglobin Test?

Getting a Haemoglobin test does not require any special preparation. If your doctor has also ordered other blood tests, you may need to fast before the test. You will be informed of any special instructions by your healthcare provider. However, we suggest that you drink plenty of water.

Things to consider after the Haemoglobin Test is complete!

Following your test, you can continue with your normal activities. During the first 24 hours after your blood is collected, you should avoid lifting heavy items with the arm used to take your blood sample.

Afterwards, your doctor will review the Haemoglobin test results with you. Depending on the results, the doctor may recommend additional tests. Treatment will depend on the underlying condition. Talk to your doctor about the possible treatment options. Those undergoing treatment for a blood disorder may have to undergo regular Haemoglobin tests.

What types of infection can the Haemoglobin Test detect?

Testing your Haemoglobin level is often done to determine whether you have anaemia, a condition characterised by low Haemoglobin levels and/or red blood cell count. Anaemia prevents your cells from receiving enough oxygen. In addition to Haemoglobin tests, other tests may also be performed, such as:

Hematocrit, an indicator of the red blood cell count in your body
Complete blood count, indicating how many and what type of cells your blood contains.

How much does the Haemoglobin Test cost?

Usually, Haemoglobin tests are part of a complete blood count. The location and cost of where blood is collected affect the price of your blood test. Your provider will also charge you for the laboratory that receives your blood sample. Consult your doctor or insurance provider about the expected costs, including copays or deductibles. The general range for this test is around rupee 100-300

*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results for the Haemoglobin Test?

You can expect to get the results for the Haemoglobin test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in some cases, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.

What do abnormal Haemoglobin Test results indicate?

A high level of any one of your levels may not necessarily indicate a medical problem. Moreover, if you live at a high altitude, your Haemoglobin level may be higher than usual. Your doctor will be able to tell you more about the test results.

Several factors can cause your Haemoglobin levels to be outside the normal range. An elevated Haemoglobin level can be a sign of:

Lung disease
Cardiovascular disease
Polycythemia vera, a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells. Patients may experience headaches and fatigue as a result.

Haemoglobin levels below normal may be a sign of:

Anaemia
Thalassemia
An iron deficiency
A disease of the liver
Cancer and other diseases

Disclaimer: Consult your doctor for interpretation of test results.

Is the Haemoglobin Test a definitive test?

One of the most common tests performed in medical assessments is the Haemoglobin test. It is regularly performed and relied upon in various health care settings.

No test is 100% accurate. Since the Haemoglobin result can be affected by factors that do not necessarily indicate a health problem. In some cases, test results may not accurately reflect healthy Haemoglobin levels such as in pregnant women, dehydrated individuals, and those who live in high altitudes.

How to read the Haemoglobin Test report?

For men, Haemoglobin levels below 13 g/dL are considered low. For women, Haemoglobin levels below 12 g/dL constitute low Haemoglobin levels, if not pregnant.

Depending on the circumstances, the threshold may change. Be sure to check your lab’s reference range, as it can also differ depending on the lab. Children may also differ in these levels according to their age, particularly in infants under six months of age. Below is the healthy range for Haemoglobin levels according to age:

Infants – 11-18
Young Children- 11.5- 16.5
Adult Males- 13- 16.5
Adult Females(pregnant)- 11-16
Adult Females(not pregnant)- 12-16

Book a Haemoglobin test to check your Haemoglobin level!

Why book a Haemoglobin Test?

Symptoms of anaemia, such as dizziness, fatigue, pale skin, and cold hands and feet
Having a history of thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia, or other inherited blood disorder
Having a diet lacking in iron and minerals
A long-term infection
An injury or surgery that caused you to lose a significant amount of blood

If you have any of these conditions, you should consult a doctor on this subject as a preventive measure.

Haemoglobin Test at home – how does it work?

The Haemoglobin Test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. They take blood into vials according to the requirements. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.

Are there any risks involved with Haemoglobin Test?

The risks associated with a blood test are very slim. Occasionally, you may experience a slight bruising or pain where the needle punctured your skin; however, these symptoms will subside within a few hours. It is possible to get an infection, especially if the area where the needle penetrated becomes exposed or dirty before the skin has healed.

What can affect the results of the Haemoglobin Test?

While there are a few factors like age, menstrual cycle, e.t.c. that influence Haemoglobin levels. If you have abnormal levels, it does not necessarily indicate a medical problem needing treatment. A few factors that can affect the results are diet, activity level, medication, and a woman’s menstrual cycle. Furthermore, if you live in an area with a high altitude, your Haemoglobin level may be higher than usual. Consult your physician for a more detailed explanation of your results.

Book a Haemoglobin test to check your Haemoglobin level!

Our Trusted Lab Partners for Haemoglobin Test

MFine Diagnostics

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₹180

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Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for Haemoglobin Test sample collection vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety while collecting samples by wearing a mask, gloves and frequently sanitising themselves during the sample collection.

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your results accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my Haemoglobin Test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on the Haemoglobin test?

Usually, you can avail yourself up to a 50% discount on Haemoglobin Tests through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

What does low Haemoglobin indicate?

Low Haemoglobin levels usually indicate that a person has anaemi Although there are several types of anaemia, iron deficiency anaemia is the most common. A person with this condition cannot synthesise enough Haemoglobin due to a lack of iron in their bodies.

How long does it take for Haemoglobin to recover?

The proteins are found in the liver, bone marrow, spleen, and muscles. In the long run, if an excessive amount of iron is depleted from stores without being replenished through diet, iron stores are depleted. Eventually, Haemoglobin levels fall. After a donation, most people’s Haemoglobin levels are back to normal after 6 to 12 weeks.

What causes Haemoglobin to rise?

Haemoglobin levels that are high usually occur when your body requires an increase in oxygen-carrying capacity, usually because: You smoke. Your red blood cell production naturally increases at a high altitude to compensate for the lower oxygen supply.

What is the danger level of Haemoglobin?

When a patient’s Haemoglobin level is at or below 7 m/dL. The American Association of Blood Banks recommends a blood transfusion if the patient is otherwise in good health.

Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and intended for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.