Ordering the Hemoglobin Blood Test
Ordering the Hemoglobin test is important for checking how well your red blood cells can carry oxygen throughout your body. This test measures the amount of hemoglobin, the iron-containing protein in red blood cells that gives blood its red color and helps move oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your tissues.
Here are some specific benefits of the Hemoglobin (Hgb) test:
- Helps detect anemia and other red blood cell problems.
- Assists in finding reasons for fatigue, shortness of breath, or weakness.
- Monitors known blood conditions over time.
- Provides important information before surgery or major medical treatments.
- Is often included as part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC).
Who Should Consider the HgB Test
Individuals who have symptoms that could be related to low or high red blood cell levels may benefit from this test. For example, if someone has been experiencing ongoing tiredness, dizziness, pale skin, or shortness of breath with simple activities, checking hemoglobin can help show whether anemia might be involved.
Other scenarios where this test might be useful include:
- People with a history of anemia or low iron.
- Individuals with chronic kidney, heart, or lung conditions.
- Those who have had recent blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual periods, surgery, or injury.
- People following diets that may be low in iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
- Women who are pregnant, where hemoglobin is often monitored as part of routine care.
Consider ordering the test if any of these situations apply to you.
Preparing for the HgB Lab Test
In most cases, no fasting is required for the Hemoglobin test, which makes it convenient for many people. However, hemoglobin is often measured as part of a larger panel, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC) or other blood tests that might require fasting. If your healthcare provider has ordered additional labs, follow any specific instructions they give you about eating, drinking, or taking medications before your blood draw.
Labs Included When Ordering Hemoglobin
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Hemoglobin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hemoglobin | 13.5 – 17.5 for adult men 2.0 – 15.5 g/dL for adult women |
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. This test helps evaluate anemia, possible blood loss, and conditions that affect red blood cell production. | Low levels may suggest anemia, which can be related to iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, or bone marrow problems.
High levels may be seen with smoking, living at high altitude, lung or heart disease, dehydration, or certain bone marrow conditions that increase red blood cell production. |
Reference ranges can vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date reference ranges for this lab test, visit Quest Diagnostics.
Test FAQ
Is there hemoglobin testing near me?
You can find nearby draw locations with our patient service center locator, which also offers mobile phlebotomy options. The hemoglobin test is not available to order in NY, NJ, Mass, or RI. You can travel to nearby states to have your sample collected.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the Hemoglobin test can be found at the top of the page. Pricing includes draw fees when visiting patient service centers.
How often should I retest?
Retesting depends on your situation. For example, people being treated for anemia or other blood conditions may have hemoglobin checked every few weeks or months, while others may only need it as part of routine checkups. Your healthcare provider can recommend how often to repeat the test based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan.
How accurate is the test?
The Hemoglobin test is performed using automated laboratory analyzers that measure the concentration of hemoglobin in your blood sample. TrueHealthLabs.com partners only with CLIA-certified labs to support high standards of testing quality and reliability.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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