What Causes Low Hemoglobin? Common Reasons and When to Get Tested

Did you know? 57% of women and 25% of men aged between 15 to 49 in India suffer from anaemia, according to the National Family Health Survey.

One of the most common indicators of anaemia is low hemoglobin levels. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Low levels of this protein in the body can affect your health in more ways than you may realise.

Understanding the low hemoglobin causes, recognising symptoms, and knowing when to get tested can help you address potential issues early.

What Is Hemoglobin and Why Does It Matter

Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that binds with oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues throughout the body. It also helps transport carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. Without enough hemoglobin, your body cannot efficiently deliver oxygen to its cells, leading to fatigue, weakness, and other health concerns.

What is Low Hemoglobin and Anemia?

Low hemoglobin and anemia are closely related medical terms. A low hemoglobin count means there isn’t enough of this protein to effectively deliver oxygen to your tissues and organs.

Anemia, on the other hand, is a condition that occurs when the body lacks a sufficient number of healthy red blood cells or when those red blood cells don’t have enough hemoglobin.

Therefore, low hemoglobin is a key indicator and defining characteristic of anemia. In simple terms, a low hemoglobin level is the primary sign used to diagnose anemia, which is the underlying condition.

Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin

Recognising low hemoglobin symptoms early can make a difference in how quickly you seek medical attention. Common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Cold hands and feet
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Shortness of breath during routine activities

If you have a family history of inherited blood disorders, poor dietary intake, or unexplained blood loss, you may be at higher risk.

Common Reasons for Low Hemoglobin

The reasons for low hemoglobin can range from temporary conditions to chronic illnesses. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Iron Deficiency – The most common cause of low hemoglobin in India, often linked to inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption, or chronic blood loss.
2. Nutrient Deficiency – Low levels of folate, vitamin B12, or vitamin C can affect red blood cell production.
3. Chronic Diseases – Conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, and certain cancers can impact hemoglobin production.
4. Blood Loss – Heavy menstrual bleeding, internal bleeding, injury, or surgery can lead to reduced hemoglobin levels.
5. Inherited Disorders – Thalassemia and sickle cell disease affect the structure and function of hemoglobin.
6. Bone Marrow Disorders – Aplastic anaemia and other marrow-related issues reduce red blood cell production.

When to Get Tested

You should consider a hemoglobin test if you experience its symptoms consistently or have risk factors such as:

• Weakness and fatigue not explained by lifestyle
• Persistent dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pale complexion
• Ongoing heavy menstrual cycles

A hemoglobin test is also part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC), which is often recommended during routine health check-ups or before surgeries.

Hemoglobin Test Procedure

The steps for hemoglobin test are straightforward and quick. A healthcare professional draws a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The process usually takes less than five minutes. No special preparation is required unless it is combined with other tests that may need fasting.

How to Test Hemoglobin and Test Time

Most diagnostic centres and hospitals offer it as a standalone test or as part of a CBC. The hemoglobin test time is generally short. Blood collection takes just a few minutes, and results are often available within the same day or the next day, depending on the facility.

Interpreting Test Results

Normal ranges vary slightly by laboratory, but general guidelines are:

• Men: 14.0 to 17.5 gm/dL
• Women: 12.3 to 15.3 gm/dL

Dangerously low levels are 13 gm/dL or below for men and 12 gm/dL or below for women.

Low results may indicate anaemia, thalassemia, iron deficiency, chronic disease, or nutrient deficiencies. High results can be linked to lung disease, heart disease, polycythemia vera, or sleep apnea. Environmental factors like high altitude, dehydration, smoking, and certain genetic traits can also affect readings.

It is important to remember that a hemoglobin test alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor may order additional tests to determine the exact cause.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the low hemoglobin causes, identifying symptoms, and understanding the test procedure can help you take timely action. If you have risk factors or symptoms, book a hemoglobin test online and speak to your healthcare provider about getting tested.

Early detection enables appropriate treatment and can significantly enhance your quality of life.