Lab report
Haemoglobin: normal range and what your result means
Also called hemoglobin, haemoglobin, hb, hgb, khoon ki kami
What this test measures
Haemoglobin carries oxygen in your red blood cells. A low level is called anaemia and can make you tired, breathless and pale.
Haemoglobin ranges for adults
Women
| Result (g/dL) | What it means |
|---|---|
| under 7 | Very lowYour haemoglobin is very low. Please see a doctor today, and go to a hospital if you are breathless, dizzy or have chest pain. |
| 7 to 7.9 | Severe anaemiaThis is severe anaemia. Please see a doctor soon to find the cause and start treatment. |
| 8 to 10.9 | Moderate anaemiaThis is moderate anaemia. A doctor can find the cause (often iron deficiency) and start treatment. |
| 11 to 11.9 | Mild anaemiaYour haemoglobin is a little low. Iron-rich food and a check of the cause usually help. |
| 12 to 15.9 | NormalYour haemoglobin is in the healthy range. |
| 16 and above | HighYour haemoglobin is higher than usual. It can be from dehydration or smoking, but a doctor should check it. |
Men
| Result (g/dL) | What it means |
|---|---|
| under 7 | Very lowYour haemoglobin is very low. Please see a doctor today, and go to a hospital if you are breathless, dizzy or have chest pain. |
| 7 to 7.9 | Severe anaemiaThis is severe anaemia. Please see a doctor soon to find the cause and start treatment. |
| 8 to 10.9 | Moderate anaemiaThis is moderate anaemia. A doctor can find the cause and start treatment. |
| 11 to 12.9 | Mild anaemiaYour haemoglobin is a little low. Iron-rich food and a check of the cause usually help. |
| 13 to 17.4 | NormalYour haemoglobin is in the healthy range. |
| 17.5 and above | HighYour haemoglobin is higher than usual. It can be from dehydration or smoking, but a doctor should check it. |
Labs use slightly different ranges. Always compare with the range printed on your own report.
What helps
- Eat iron-rich food: green leafy vegetables, dal, chana, jaggery, eggs, meat.
- Have vitamin C (lemon, amla, oranges) with meals; avoid tea right after meals.
- Treat worms and heavy periods, common causes of anaemia.
Talk to a doctor if
- Your haemoglobin is below the normal range
- You feel breathless, very tired or dizzy
- You have very heavy periods or black stools
The right doctor for this
General Physician
Show your report to a doctor online and get a clear plan. If you are not sure who to see, a general physician is always a safe place to start.