Hemoglobin (Hgb)
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It gives blood its red color.
Category: Complete Blood Count
Also known as: hemoglobin, haemoglobin, hgb, hb
Reference range: 13.5–17.5 g/dL (Source: ABIM)
Standard unit: g/dL
High values may indicate
High hemoglobin may indicate polycythemia vera, dehydration, lung disease, or living at high altitude.
Low values may indicate
Low hemoglobin (anemia) may indicate iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, or bone marrow problems.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a normal Hemoglobin (Hgb) level?
- A typical reference range for Hemoglobin (Hgb) is 13.5–17.5 g/dL (source: ABIM). Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex, so always compare against the range on your own lab report.
- What units is Hemoglobin (Hgb) measured in?
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) is most commonly reported in g/dL. Labs in different countries may use other units — you can convert between them with BloodId's blood test unit converter.
- Where do Hemoglobin (Hgb) reference ranges come from?
- BloodId uses ABIM standard reference ranges and educational information from MedlinePlus (see our methodology). Reference ranges still vary by lab, age, and sex, so always compare against your own report.
- Can I track Hemoglobin (Hgb) over time?
- Yes. Upload results from any lab and BloodId charts your Hemoglobin (Hgb) over time against its reference range, so you can see whether the trend is rising, falling, or stable.
Related biomarkers
Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
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