What is the Hemoglobin Normal Range? How do I Improve it?

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In general, haemoglobin levels can range between 13 to 18 g/dL, which is why when the levels are determined out of range you should get further testing. While the reading is different for men, women, and children, it is important to understand the reasons behind the out of range numbers.


You can have an infection, a general illness, low levels of iron, heavy menstrual bleeding, or other conditions, which can impact your red blood cell production. You can opt for medication, changing your diet, and getting regularly tested to ensure that your levels are within the normal range.

Normal range of haemoglobin

These are the normal ranges of hemoglobin levels in the blood. If you have an issue with red blood cells production, then these levels may get affected. You should always consult a doctor prior to making any changes for improving your hemoglobin levels.

Men

In men, the normal range of hemoglobin is 13.5–18 g/dL

Women

In women, the normal range is 12–15 g/dL

Children

For children, the normal hemoglobin range is 11–16 g/dL

Pregnant women

In pregnant women, the levels of hemoglobin should be above 10 g/dL. 

Important symptoms of low hemoglobin

There may be a condition or a health issue in which the production of red blood cells may be affected, causing low hemoglobin levels. Understanding the reason behind the red blood cell issue may be vital when checking the hemoglobin level of the individual.

Fatigue

You can experience fatigue that can impact other functions of the body. The fatigue may be related to the low red blood cell production, which can impact the body's ability to carry oxygen to the tissues. You may also feel weakness, which can lead to issues with pain in the muscles or joints.

Pale or yellowish skin

There may be the presence of yellowing of the skin when there is an issue with red blood cell production. Your body may not be able to produce enough red blood cells which can impact the amount of hemoglobin in your system.

Shortness of breath

You can have rapid breathing or shortness of breath as a core sign of red blood cells production issue. The shortness of breathing issue can be tracked if you have sensations of palpitations or sudden breathlessness.

Rapid heart rate

You can experience a sensation of rapid heartbeat if your haemoglobin levels are too low. You can also get pale skin and tachycardia risk if you have low haemoglobin levels. You should get a test done to ensure that your levels are within normal range.

Dizziness

One of the main symptoms of anaemia is dizziness and light-headedness, which can arise at multiple times throughout the day. You can also feel exhausted as well, which is another sign that there may be an issue with red blood cells production.



What can affect red blood cells production?

There are several conditions that can impact red blood cells and your hemoglobin levels. The hemoglobin level is important to track to ensure that these conditions are within manageable parameters. You can have anaemia, which is one of the more common reasons why people can have low hemoglobin level reading.


People with Lymphoma can also have issues with red blood cells production, which can lead to low readings in the overall test levels. Leukaemia is another condition, which is a cancer in the bone marrow or blood, which can cause issues with red blood cell production. 

Here's how you can bring your levels to normal

The preliminary step in improving your haemoglobin levels to bring them to normal is to talk to a doctor. If you have other symptoms, such as stomach pain, cramping, excessive bleeding during mensuration, etc. then you may have to get further testing done.


You can test your iron levels and start taking iron supplements to check hemoglobin normal range and any changes. You can also add more iron to your diet by consuming more green leafy vegetables, seafood, beans, peas, and dried fruits. These can help you bring your iron levels to normal.


You can also check for any medication that can create problems with iron production. You can consult with your doctor about what medications may cause issues with iron absorption from your food as well. You can focus on overall stress management as well which can be another secondary reason why mineral absorption can be impacted.


* * Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).


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