Haemoglobin and iron deficiency

Haemoglobin

Haemoglobin is the red pigment in and the main component of red blood cells. It gives red cells their colour and is responsible for transporting oxygen. A low haemoglobin count can be a sign of iron deficiency. 

The iron contained in haemoglobin binds oxygen, enabling its transport around the body. Transporting oxygen is thus the most important function of haemoglobin and, by extension, of red blood cells. The haemoglobin takes up the oxygen (O2) in the lungs, transports it through blood vessels and delivers it to the body’s cells. After delivering the oxygen, haemoglobin binds carbon dioxide (CO2) and takes it back to the lungs, where it is expelled when you exhale.

Checking the haemoglobin count before blood donation

It is important to measure the amount of haemoglobin in the blood (Hb count) to rule out anaemia. This value is therefore checked prior to every donation. Someone whose haemoglobin count is too low cannot donate blood. Since men generally have a higher haemoglobin count than women, the minimum Hb counts required for men and women differ.

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies. Since iron is not something our body can produce for itself, we have to absorb it from the food we eat. Iron is primarily important for the production of haemoglobin (the pigment found in red blood cells) and thus for the transport of oxygen, though it is also a component of other cells and enzymes. The human body can use iron stored in the liver, spleen and bone marrow to make up for insufficient iron intake for a while, so the typical symptoms of iron deficiency tend not to appear right away.

Possible symptoms of an iron deficiency:

• Brittle hair and nails
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Nervousness
• Irritability
• Constant fatigue
• Decreased work capacity and poor concentration
• Pale skin
• Dizziness and headaches

If the body is low on iron for an extended period, this can lead to anaemia. If an iron deficiency is suspected, a medical professional should determine the iron levels in the body.

Treatment of iron deficiency:

Doctors often prescribe iron supplements, in the form of tablets, drops or syrup, which are easy to take. Ideally, though, iron deficiency should be prevented by eating a balanced diet.