what does an hemogloblin treatment consist of

Treatments for low hemoglobin

include iron supplements, iron therapy, and surgery. Adding more iron-rich foods to your diet is also important. A Word From Verywell Having a low hemoglobin count can be serious, especially if it's low enough to cause fainting, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Full Answer

What are the treatment options for high hemoglobin?

Treatment Options. The best way of treating this condition is by increasing one's dietary intake of iron. This iron builds up the level of hemoglobin in the blood, and thus aids the cause. However, excess of iron in the blood leads to other disorders such as hemochromatosis.

What is a a hemoglobin test?

A hemoglobin test measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen to your body's organs and tissues and transports carbon dioxide from your organs and tissues back to your lungs.

What is hemoglobin (Hb)?

Treatment for Low Hemoglobin Hemoglobin transports oxygen to various parts of the body, and its presence is vitally important for a human being to survive. Hemoglobin (Hb) is a vital iron-containing oxygen transport metalloprotein present in the red blood cells (RBC's).

What is the role of hemoglobin in the shape of blood?

The iron contained in hemoglobin is also responsible for the red color of blood. Hemoglobin also plays an important role in maintaining the shape of the red blood cells. In their natural shape, red blood cells are round with narrow centers resembling a donut without a hole in the middle.

How do hospitals treat low hemoglobin?

Treatment for iron-deficiency anemia will depend on its cause and severity. Treatments may include dietary changes and supplements, medicines, and surgery. Severe iron-deficiency anemia may require a blood transfusion, iron injections, or intravenous (IV) iron therapy. Treatment may need to be done in a hospital.

What level of hemoglobin requires treatment?

The American Society of Anesthesiologists uses hemoglobin levels of 6 g/dL as the trigger for required transfusion, although more recent data suggest decreased mortality with preanesthetic hemoglobin concentrations of greater than 8 g/dL, particularly in renal transplant patients.

How is a hemoglobin test performed?

For a hemoglobin test, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by pricking your fingertip or inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. For infants, the sample may be obtained by pricking the heel. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

Is hemoglobin test painful?

You will have your blood collected for your hemoglobin test. There very few risks to this procedure. If you've had a reaction when having a blood test before, you can expect the same with this test (e.g., puncture site soreness). If you tend to get squeamish around blood or needles, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded.

What level of hemoglobin is dangerously low?

What hemoglobin levels are considered severe or dangerously low? A hemoglobin level of less than 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dl) is dangerous and could lead to heart failure or death. A normal hemoglobin level is 13.2–16.6 grams per deciliter (g/dL) for males and 11.6–15 g/dL for females.

How low does your hemoglobin have to be to get a blood transfusion?

But 7 to 8 g/dL is a safe level. Your doctor should use just enough blood to get to this level. Often, one unit of blood is enough. Some doctors believe that hospital patients who fall below 10 g/dL should get a blood transfusion.

How does low hemoglobin make you feel?

Anemia is a condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. Having anemia, also referred to as low hemoglobin, can make you feel tired and weak. There are many forms of anemia, each with its own cause.

Why is a hemoglobin test ordered?

A hemoglobin test is often used to check for anemia, a condition in which your body has fewer red blood cells than normal. If you have anemia, the cells in your body don't get all the oxygen they need. Hemoglobin tests are measured as part of a complete blood count (CBC).

How long does it take for hemoglobin test results?

Complete blood count (CBC) — This test measures components of the blood: white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. It also checks the hemoglobin in the red blood cells and measures the hematocrit, or the proportion of red cells in the blood. CBC results are usually available to your doctor within 24 hours.

What are two conditions that cause polycythemia?

Apparent polycythaemia is often caused by being overweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol or taking certain medicines – including diuretics (tablets for high blood pressure that make you pee more). Apparent polycythaemia may improve if the underlying cause is identified and managed.

Does drinking water lower hemoglobin?

1. A steady intake of water increases hemoglobin indices, such as the MCH and MCHC, and decreases the MPV.

What is a low hemoglobin level for a woman?

Hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb) is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A low hemoglobin count is generally defined as less than 13.2 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter (132 grams per liter) of blood for men and less than 11.6 grams per deciliter (116 grams per liter) for women.

What is the iron in globulin chain?

Each globulin chain contains an important iron-containing porphyrin compound termed heme. Embedded within the heme compound is an iron atom that is vital in transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in our blood. The iron contained in hemoglobin is also responsible for the red color of blood. Hemoglobin also plays an important role in maintaining ...

What does low hemoglobin mean?

What does a low hemoglobin level mean? A low hemoglobin level is referred to as anemia or low red blood count. A lower than a normal number of red blood cells is referred to as anemia and hemoglobin levels reflect this number. There are many reasons (causes) for anemia. Some of the more common causes of anemia are:

What is the average blood sugar level for a hemoglobin A1C of 6%?

A hemoglobin A1c of 6% roughly correlates with an average blood sugar level of 135 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliters) over the previous 3 months. Each 1% increase in hemoglobin A1c above 6% represents an average blood sugar of approximately 35 mg/dL over 135 mg/dL.

What does it mean when your hemoglobin is 6%?

Normal hemoglobin A1c levels range between 4% to 5.9%. As this number reaches 6% or greater, it signifies poorer diabetes control.

What is the normal hemoglobin level for a newborn?

The normal ranges for hemoglobin depend on the age and, beginning in adolescence, the gender of the person. The normal ranges are: Newborns: 17 to 22 gm/dL. One (1) week of age: 15 to 20 gm/dL. One (1) month of age: 11 to 15 gm/dL. Children: 11 to 13 gm/dL. Adult males: 14 to 18 gm/dL. Adult women: 12 to 16 gm/dL.

What is the chemical that breaks down red blood cells?

Within the machine, the red blood cells are broken down to get the hemoglobin into a solution. The free hemoglobin is exposed to a chemical containing cyanide that binds tightly with the hemoglobin molecule to form cyanomethemoglobin.

What is the red color of blood?

The iron contained in hemoglobin is also responsible for the red color of blood. Hemoglobin also plays an important role in maintaining the shape of the red blood cells. In their natural shape, red blood cells are round with narrow centers resembling a donut without a hole in the middle.

How to take a hemoglobin test?

For a hemoglobin test, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by pricking your fingertip or inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. For infants, the sample may be obtained by pricking the heel. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You can return to your usual activities immediately after the sample is taken.

What is the purpose of hemoglobin test?

A hemoglobin test measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen to your body's organs and tissues and transports carbon dioxide from your organs and tissues back to your lungs.

Why is my hemoglobin level higher than normal?

If your hemoglobin level is higher than normal, it may be the result of: Polycythemia vera — a blood disorder in which your bone marrow makes too many red blood cells. If you've been previously diagnosed with polycythemia vera, an elevated hemoglobin level may indicate a need to alter your treatment plan.

What does it mean when your hemoglobin is low?

Lower than normal results. If your hemoglobin level is lower than normal, you have anemia. There are many forms of anemia, each with different causes, which can include: Thalassemia — a genetic disorder that causes low levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells.

Why is my hemoglobin high?

If a hemoglobin test shows a higher than normal level, there are several potential causes — the blood disorder polycythemia vera, living at a high altitude, smoking and dehydration.

What happens if your hemoglobin is below normal?

If your hemoglobin level is below or above normal, your doctor may want to evaluate the hemoglobin test results along with those of other tests, or additional tests may be necessary , to determine next steps. For specifics about what your hemoglobin test results mean, talk to your doctor.

How many grams of hemoglobin is normal for a child?

For men, 13.5 to 17.5 grams per deciliter. For women, 12.0 to 15.5 grams per deciliter. Normal ranges for children vary with age and sex. The range for a normal hemoglobin level may differ from one medical practice to another.

What is CBC in blood work?

When your doctor orders a complete blood count (CBC), the lab automatically runs several different tests. Hemoglobin is one of the tests that is done as a part of a complete blood count. Why Are Blood Cells Red?

Can EPO cause anemia?

Some studies have shown a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with CKD whose hemoglobin levels were too high. If you are taking EPO, your doctor may lower your dose. If your hemoglobin is too low, you may have anemia. Anemia can make you feel tired, weak, cold, and confused.

It's not as common as low hemoglobin

Heidi Moawad is a neurologist and expert in the field of brain health and neurological disorders. Dr. Moawad regularly writes and edits health and career content for medical books and publications.

Hemoglobin (Hgb) Blood Test

Your hemoglobin can be measured in a sample of your blood. This is part of a routine complete blood cell count (CBC) .

High Hemoglobin Levels

When hemoglobin is high, it can be a sign of certain medical conditions. Hemoglobin levels will be elevated if you have too many red blood cells or if your body makes too much hemoglobin.

Medical Treatment

The treatment for a high hemoglobin level depends on the cause. For example, if you have cancer, respiratory disease, heart disease, or kidney disease, your medical condition would be treated. You may also need separate treatment for your elevated hemoglobin level.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes

If you have high hemoglobin, it’s important that you maintain a healthy diet. There are no specific dietary recommendations that lower hemoglobin.

Summary

Elevated hemoglobin doesn’t usually cause symptoms, but it can cause complications, including blood clots. 4 A high hemoglobin level is often an indicator of disease. It can occur with polycythemia vera, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and kidney or liver disease.

A Word From Verywell

Hemoglobin can be measured with a blood test. While low hemoglobin is a more common concern than high hemoglobin, sometimes high hemoglobin can occur. If you have any abnormalities on your blood tests, make sure you follow up with your healthcare professional so you can get a diagnosis and treatment for the underlying condition.

How to make hemoglobin?

Eat foods high in iron and folate. Iron plays an important role in hemoglobin production. A protein called transferrin binds to iron and transports it throughout the body. This helps your body make red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin.

How to know if your hemoglobin is low?

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms while trying to raise your hemoglobin level: pale skin and gums. fatigue and muscle weakness . a fast or irregular heartbeat. frequent headaches.

What is the best vitamin for red blood cells?

Foods that are high in iron include: Folate is a B vitamin that your body uses to produce heme, the part of your red blood cells that contains hemoglobin. Without enough folate, your red blood cells can’t mature. This can lead to folate deficiency anemia and low hemoglobin levels.

How to increase iron absorption?

Vitamin C may help to increase the amount of iron your body absorbs. Try squeezing some fresh lemon over iron rich foods to increase absorp tion.

How to lower iron levels in the body?

In most cases, doctors treat hemochromatosis with phlebotomy, or drawing about a pint of blood at a time, on a regular schedule. This is the most direct and safe way to lower body stores of iron. . Treatment of hemochromatosis can improve symptoms and prevent complications.

Where is phlebotomy done?

Phlebotomy is usually done in blood banks just like routine blood donation. NIH external link. . In some cases, blood drawn from people with hemochromatosis may be donated and used in people who need blood transfusions. NIH external link.

How often should you have a blood test after a phlebotomy?

After phlebotomy has removed extra iron and blood levels of iron and ferritin return to normal, doctors will reduce phlebotomies to once every 1 to 3 months and eventually to 2 to 3 times a year. Doctors will continue to order regular blood tests to check iron and ferritin levels.

Can phlebotomy help with hemochromatosis?

For people who already have complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. when they are diagnosed with hemochromatosis, phlebotomy may not be able to restore health.

Can chemo remove iron?

Chelating agents may be pills taken by mouth or intravenous (IV) medicines, and they do not remove iron as effectively as phlebotomy. Doctors treat neonatal hemochromatosis in newborns with exchange transfusions—removing blood and replacing it with donor blood—and IV immunoglobulin—a solution of antibodies from healthy people.

Can you have hemochromatosis if you have a brother?

If you have a close relative—a parent, brother or sister, or child—with hemochromatosis, you should be checked for hemoch romatosis. Talk with your doctor about testing you and your family members. Secondary hemochromatosis due to blood transfusion cannot be prevented easily.

Can phlebotomy lower iron levels?

People who receive blood transfusions to treat certain types of anemia and develop secondary hemochromatosis cannot have phlebotomy to lower their iron levels . To treat secondary hemochromatosis in these people, doctors prescribe medicines, called chelating agents, that bind to iron and allow it to pass from the body in urine. Chelating agents may be pills taken by mouth or intravenous (IV) medicines, and they do not remove iron as effectively as phlebotomy.

What is the treatment for hemolytic anemia?

Treatments for hemolytic anemia include blood transfusions, medicines, plasmapheresis (PLAZ-meh-feh-RE-sis), surgery, blood and marrow stem cell transplants, and lifestyle changes. People who have mild hemolytic anemia may not need treatment, as long as the condition doesn't worsen.

What is the best medicine for sickle cell anemia?

If you have severe sickle cell anemia, your doctor may recommend a medicine called hydroxyurea. This medicine prompts your body to make fetal hemoglobin. Fetal hemoglobin is the type of hemoglobin that newborns have. In people who have sickle cell anemia, fetal hemoglobin helps prevent red blood cells from sickling and improves anemia.

How is blood taken from the body?

For this procedure, blood is taken from your body using a needle inserted into a vein. The plasma, which contains the antibodies, is separated from the rest of the blood. Then, plasma from a donor and the rest of the blood is put back in your body. This treatment may help if other treatments for immune hemolytic anemia don't work.

What is blood transfusion?

A blood transfusion is a common procedure in which blood is given to you through an intravenous (IV) line in one of your blood vessels. Transfusions require careful matching of donated blood with the recipient's blood. For more information, go to the Health Topics Blood Transfusion article.

How to avoid anemia in cold weather?

Warm up the car before driving in cold weather. People born with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can avoid substances that may trigger anemia.

How do you get stem cells from a blood transplant?

During the transplant, which is like a blood transfusion, you get donated stem cells through a tube placed in a vein. Once the stem cells are in your body, they travel to your bone marrow and begin making new blood cells. For more information, go to the Health Topics Blood and Marrow Stem Cell Transplant article.

Does prednisone help with hemolytic anemia?

Medicines can improve some types of hemolytic anemia, especially autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Corticosteroid medicines, such as prednisone, can stop your immune system from, or limit its ability to, make antibodies (proteins) against red blood cells.

How to reduce hemochromatosis?

In addition to therapeutic blood removal, you may further reduce your risk of complications from hemochromatosis if you: Avoid iron supplements and multivitamins containing iron. These can increase your iron levels even more. Avoid vitamin C supplements. Vitamin C increases absorption of iron.

Why is hemochromatosis not a sign of iron?

Hemochromatosis may be identified because of abnormal blood tests done for other reasons or from screening of family members of people diagnosed with the disease.

What tests can be done to determine if you have iron overload?

Your doctor may suggest other tests to confirm the diagnosis and to look for other problems: Liver function tests. These tests can help identify liver damage. MRI. An MRI is a fast and noninvasive way to measure the degree of iron overload in your liver. Testing for gene mutations.

Why can't you have phlebotomy?

If you can't undergo phlebotomy, because you have anemia, for example, or heart complications, your doctor may recommend a medication to remove excess iron. The medication can be injected into your body, or it can be taken as a pill. The medication binds excess iron, allowing your body to expel iron through your urine or stool in a process that's called chelation (KEE-lay-shun). Chelation is not commonly used in hereditary hemochromatosis.

Does phlebotomy help with cirrhosis?

Phlebotomy will not reverse cirrhosis or joint pain, but it can slow the progression. If you have cirrhosis, your doctor may recommend periodic screening for liver cancer. This usually involves an abdominal ultrasound and CT scan.

Does alcohol affect hemochromatosis?

Vitamin C increases absorption of iron. There's usually no need to restrict vitamin C in your diet, however. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol greatly increases the risk of liver damage in people with hereditary hemochromatosis. If you have hereditary hemochromatosis and you already have liver disease, avoid alcohol completely.

Can you take iron without blood?

Some people may maintain normal iron levels without having any blood taken, and some may need to have blood removed monthly. The schedule depends on how rapidly iron accumulates in your body. Treating hereditary hemochromatosis can help alleviate symptoms of tiredness, abdominal pain and skin darkening.

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What You Can Expect

• For a hemoglobin test, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by pricking your fingertip or inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. For infants, the sample may be obtained by pricking the heel. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You can return to your usual activities immediately after the sample is taken.

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