The Basics of Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is a protein, rich in iron content and found in the red blood cells of our body. Its primary function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues, so that living cells can perform properly. Hemoglobin also helps in the transportation of carbon dioxide away from the cells and transport it back to the lungs.
Understanding Low Hemoglobin Count
Low hemoglobin (known medically as anemia) is a condition where there is a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood below the normal range. This can be due to a number of reasons which include but are not limited to; nutritional deficiencies, bone marrow problems, and bleeding.
It’s important for individuals to keep a track of their hemoglobin level. The normal range in men is typically defined as 13.5 to 17.5 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter (g/dL) of blood. For women, the normal range is defined as 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL. Although, these values may sometimes differ slightly depending on the medical practice.
Why Low Hemoglobin is a Concern
Low hemoglobin levels often indicate a problem, such as disease or a nutritional deficiency. When your body lacks the adequate amount of hemoglobin, the tissues or organs don’t receive enough oxygen, and they won’t work correctly. Without an adequate level of hemoglobin, the body’s cells will not be able to function optimally due to reduced oxygen supply, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and even trouble breathing.
Identifying the Causes of Low Hemoglobin
There are several possible causes of low hemoglobin and they can be broadly categorized into three groups; increased loss of red blood cells, decreased production of red blood cells, or increased destruction of red blood cells.
Some potential causes include:
- Bleeding: This can be from wounds, heavy menstruation, or internal bleeding caused by peptic ulcers.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid can slow down the production of hemoglobin.
- Malignancies: Certain types of cancers can lead to low hemoglobin levels.
- Bone Marrow Issues: Problems with the bone marrow can reduce the production of red blood cells.
- Disease: Certain diseases like kidney disease and rheumatoid arthritis can lower hemoglobin levels.
Treating Low Hemoglobin Levels
The treatment for low hemoglobin depends on the underlying cause. If the cause of low hemoglobin levels is nutritional deficiency, it can be treated with dietary changes and supplementation. If the condition is due to blood loss or a disease, additional medical procedures or treatments may be needed.
However, it’s crucial to remember that sudden drop in hemoglobin levels can be a sign of a serious health problem that needs immediate medical attention.
To conclude, low hemoglobin condition should never be ignored, as it means your body isn’t functioning optimally. Always seek professional advice if you suspect your hemoglobin levels to be low.