What does hgb stand for medically

A low red blood cell count, or anemia, causes many symptoms and complications. People can increase their red blood cell count with lifestyle changes…. Anemia is the most common blood disorder. The body does not have enough red blood cells and is unable to deliver enough oxygen around the body. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells. Oxygen entering the lungs adheres to this protein, allowing blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the….

What is an Hgb blood test? Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. What is it? When doctors use it Results High hemoglobin Low hemoglobin Outlook Summary An Hgb blood test measures how much hemoglobin a person has in their blood. Share on Pinterest A doctor will use an Hgb blood test to see how much hemoglobin a person has in their blood. When is it necessary? What do the results mean? Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Updated by: Laura J. Editorial team. How the Test is Performed.

A blood sample is needed. How to Prepare for the Test. How the Test will Feel. Why the Test is Performed. Reasons or conditions for ordering the hemoglobin test include: Symptoms such as fatigue, poor health, or unexplained weight loss Signs of bleeding Before and after major surgery During pregnancy Chronic kidney disease or many other chronic medical problems Monitoring of anemia and its cause Monitoring during treatment for cancer Monitoring medicines that may cause anemia or low blood counts.

Normal results for adults vary, but in general are: Male: What Abnormal Results Mean. Common reasons include: Certain birth defects of the heart that are present at birth congenital heart disease Failure of the right side of the heart cor pulmonale Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD Scarring or thickening of the lungs pulmonary fibrosis and other severe lung disorders Other reasons for high hemoglobin level includes: A rare bone marrow disease that leads to an abnormal increase in the number of blood cells polycythemia vera The body having too little water and fluids dehydration.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include: Excessive bleeding Fainting or feeling lightheaded Multiple punctures to locate veins Hematoma blood buildup under the skin Infection a slight risk any time the skin is broken. Alternative Names. If your health care provider has also ordered other blood tests, you may need to fast not eat or drink for several hours before the test.

Your health care provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow. There is very little risk to having a blood test.

You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms usually go away quickly. If any of your levels are abnormal, it does not necessarily indicate a medical problem needing treatment. Diet, activity level, medications, a women's menstrual cycle, and other considerations can affect the results. In addition, you may have higher than normal hemoglobin if you live in a high altitude area.

Talk to your health care provider to learn what your results mean. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

Some forms of anemia are mild, while other types of anemia can be serious and even life-threatening if not treated. If you are diagnosed with anemia, be sure to talk to your health care provider to find out the best treatment plan for you.

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Hemoglobin Test. What is a hemoglobin test? Other names: Hb, Hgb.