Haemoglobin
The invisible heroes in our blood
editorial.overview
What is haemoglobin?
The vital protein haemoglobin plays a central role in transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. In red blood cells it acts as a carrier, moving oxygen from the lungs to the cells where it is needed for energy production. This process is known as cellular respiration.
After releasing oxygen, haemoglobin picks up carbon dioxide, which is transported back to the lungs and exhaled. In this way haemoglobin enables a continuous exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, essential for metabolism and cellular function.
This vital process occurs around the clock. A balanced haemoglobin level is crucial for optimal cell function and also allows the efficient removal of metabolic waste products.
editorial.facts
- A healthy adult contains about 25 trillion red blood cells, which together hold approximately 650 grams of haemoglobin. More than 200 billion of these blood cells are produced daily in the bone marrow.
- Haemoglobinopathies are diseases caused by an abnormal structure, function or production of the blood pigment haemoglobin.
- Around 30 percent of the world's population suffer from iron‑deficiency anaemia, where the body cannot produce enough red blood pigment (haemoglobin) due to a lack of iron.
- Thalassaemia, also called Mediterranean anaemia, is a genetic disorder in which haemoglobin production and function are impaired. This leads to an accelerated breakdown of red blood cells. The severity of the disease can vary.
What do low haemoglobin values mean?
A low haemoglobin level, measured as the Hb value, usually indicates anaemia, commonly due to iron deficiency. When the body is not adequately supplied with oxygen, symptoms such as exhaustion, fatigue, reduced performance or dizziness may occur.
Besides iron-deficiency anaemia, various factors and conditions can contribute to a low haemoglobin value. These include pregnancy, blood loss from gastrointestinal bleeding or injuries, vitamin B12 deficiency or folate deficiency, and renal anaemia.
In addition, congenital conditions such as sickle cell disease, spherocytosis or thalassaemia, infectious diseases like malaria or cancers can affect haemoglobin. Chronic kidney diseases such as chronic renal insufficiency, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases and bone marrow disorders or bone metastases may also be causes.
Low haemoglobin values can also occur if the body has taken in too much fluid, as can happen with a rapid infusion. In this case the total amount of haemoglobin in the body remains constant, but the blood is overall more “diluted”.
Wie ist Ihr aktueller Hämoglobinwert?
What do high haemoglobin values mean?
Elevated haemoglobin values in the blood indicate an increase in red blood cells, known as polycythaemia. Symptoms associated with high haemoglobin levels can vary and depend on the underlying cause. Possible symptoms include headaches, fatigue, sensory disturbances and breathing difficulties.
Polycythaemia can have various causes. One is chronic oxygen deficiency, which may occur after prolonged stays at high altitude. To compensate, the body produces more red blood cells. Heavy smoking and certain heart and lung diseases can also lead to elevated haemoglobin levels.
Dehydration can also raise haemoglobin values. This can happen when the body loses a lot of water through heavy sweating or fluid intake is insufficient. In this case the total amount of haemoglobin remains constant, but the blood becomes thicker due to the lack of fluid.
What are normal haemoglobin values for children and adults?
The Hb value, usually given in grams per decilitre (g/dl), varies with age and sex. In newborns the normal value is between 17 and 22 g/dl, in children between 11 and 13 g/dl. In adult men the normal haemoglobin value is between 14 and 18 g/dl, and in adult women between 12 and 16 g/dl. After middle age, normal values decline slightly to 12.4–14.9 g/dl in men and 11.7–13.8 g/dl in women.
Why do women have lower haemoglobin values than men?
Women generally have lower haemoglobin values than men, mainly due to menstruation. The menstrual cycle leads to iron loss, which in turn lowers the haemoglobin level in the blood. These changes mean that women after the menopause often have haemoglobin values similar to those who never menstruated.
How does the doctor test haemoglobin values in the blood?
To test the haemoglobin content of the blood, the doctor usually performs a routine test called a complete blood count. This test helps diagnose various conditions such as infections, anaemia or leukaemia. A blood sample is required for the blood count, typically taken from a vein in the arm.
How to increase your haemoglobin level: useful tips
- Eat foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, grapefruit, papaya, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and spinach to improve iron absorption. Iron in turn affects haemoglobin levels.
- Regular consumption of meat and seafood such as tuna, catfish, salmon, sardines, mussels and oysters, which are rich in iron, is also advisable.
- Include legumes such as beans, chickpeas, peas and lentils as well as grains like wheat, millet and oats in your diet to meet your iron needs.
- Eat iron-rich vegetables such as spinach, chard, beetroot, potatoes and sweet potatoes to raise your haemoglobin level.
- Reduce consumption of coffee and black tea, as their tannins can inhibit iron absorption.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks like cola, as these can impair iron absorption in the body.
- Avoid rhubarb, as it can hinder iron absorption and therefore does not help increase haemoglobin levels.
- Have regular blood tests to monitor your haemoglobin level and, if necessary, take appropriate action.
A balanced haemoglobin level is important for physical performance and overall well‑being. Through a healthy lifestyle, an iron‑rich diet and regular check‑ups, everyone can help keep their haemoglobin in the optimal range and thus support their general health.
