1. The basic concept of hemoglobin
Hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb for short) is a special protein within red blood cells, composed of globin and heme. It is a key molecule in the human body responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide, and it is also the main substance that gives blood its red color.
2. Physiological functions of hemoglobin
Oxygen transport: In the lungs, hemoglobin combines with oxygen to form oxygenated hemoglobin, which is transported to all tissues and cells throughout the body via the bloodstream, providing energy for cell metabolism.
Carbon dioxide transport: Hemoglobin can also combine with the carbon dioxide produced by cell metabolism to form carbamoyl hemoglobin, which is transported to the lungs and excreted from the body, maintaining the acid-base balance within the body.
Acid-base buffering: Hemoglobin has a certain acid-base buffering capacity, which helps regulate the pH value of the blood and maintain the stability of the internal environment.
3. The normal reference value of hemoglobin
Adult male: 120-160g/L
Adult females (non-pregnant) : 110-150g/L
Pregnant women: 100-150g/L
Newborn: 170-200g/L
4. Causes of abnormal hemoglobin
01 Elevated hemoglobin
Physiological elevation: Commonly seen in newborns and people living at high altitudes, it is an adaptive response of the body to hypoxic environments.
Pathological elevation: It can be seen in polycythemia vera, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congenital heart disease, severe dehydration, etc., and is often related to hypoxia or blood concentration.
02 Decreased hemoglobin
Physiological reduction: Children aged 3 months to 15 years have relatively insufficient hematopoiesis due to rapid growth and development. In the middle and late stages of pregnancy, women experience blood dilution due to increased blood volume. Due to the decline in bone marrow hematopoietic function, all elderly people may experience a mild decrease in hemoglobin.
Pathological reduction: Commonly seen in various types of anemia (such as iron deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemia, aplastic anemia, etc.), chronic diseases (such as chronic kidney disease, chronic infection), blood loss (such as gastrointestinal bleeding, menorrhagia), etc.
5. The clinical significance of hemoglobin detection
Hemoglobin is an important indicator in blood routine tests and is mainly used for:
01 Diagnosis and Grading of anemia: A hemoglobin concentration lower than the normal range indicates anemia, and the degree of anemia (mild, moderate, severe, and extremely severe) can be determined based on the specific value.
02 Disease Monitoring: It helps doctors assess the changes in the condition of blood system diseases, chronic diseases, abnormal heart and lung functions, etc., and guides the adjustment of treatment plans.
03 Preoperative assessment: Measuring hemoglobin levels before surgical operations can assess the patient’s tolerance to the surgery. If necessary, preoperative blood transfusion is required to enhance safety.
6. How to maintain normal hemoglobin levels
01 Balanced diet: Consume more foods rich in iron, protein, vitamin B12 and folic acid, such as red meat, animal liver, beans, green leafy vegetables, eggs and dairy products, to promote the synthesis of hemoglobin.
02 Regular schedule: Ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding overwork can help maintain the body’s normal hematopoietic function.
03 Moderate exercise: Moderate aerobic exercise can promote blood circulation and metabolism, and enhance physical fitness, but avoid intense exercise that may lead to dehydration or excessive fatigue.
04 Regular check-ups: Especially for those with a family history of anemia, chronic diseases or special occupations, regularly monitor hemoglobin levels, promptly detect abnormalities and intervene.
If the hemoglobin test result is abnormal or symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and pale complexion occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause and receive professional treatment.
Post time: Jan-16-2026