Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen away from the lungs to the body's tissues. A blood test for hemoglobin measures the amount of this protein in the blood. Low hemoglobin levels could be related to anemia, over-hydration, bleeding, red blood cell destruction, iron deficiency, folate deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, and/ or vitamin B6 deficiency. In addition, certain diseases and infections may cause hemoglobin levels to drop.
A low hemoglobin may be normal in some people and not be a sign of any deficiency. However, if you experience symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Faster than normal heartbeat during exercise or activity
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin and gums
- Lack of energy
Information Sources:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003645.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/low-hemoglobin/MY01183
No comments:
Post a Comment