Understanding the Haemoglobin blood test

The Haemoglobin blood test measures the concentration of haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. Adequate haemoglobin levels are essential for energy, organ function, and overall health.

Haemoglobin levels can be affected by many factors, including iron status, vitamin deficiencies, chronic disease, blood loss, genetic conditions, and hydration status. This test is a core component of routine blood testing and is often included in a Full Blood Count (FBC).

Because changes in haemoglobin may occur gradually and without obvious symptoms, blood testing plays a key role in early detection of underlying health issues.

When a Haemoglobin blood test is recommended

A Haemoglobin test is recommended whenever there is a need to assess red blood cell health or oxygen-carrying capacity. It is one of the most commonly requested blood tests in clinical practice.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Feel tired, weak, or short of breath
• Have pale skin or dizziness
• Have heavy menstrual bleeding
• Have unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Are being assessed for anaemia
• Have chronic illness or inflammatory conditions
• Are monitoring iron or vitamin treatment
• Are undergoing routine health screening

Benefits of the Haemoglobin test

• Detects anaemia early
  Identifies low haemoglobin before symptoms worsen.
• Assesses oxygen-carrying capacity
  Essential for energy and organ function.
• Supports investigation of fatigue and weakness
  Helps explain common, non-specific symptoms.
• Monitors response to treatment
  Useful for tracking iron or vitamin therapy.
• Part of routine and preventive healthcare
  Included in many standard health checks.
• Helps identify blood loss or chronic disease effects
  Supports broader diagnostic investigations.
• Simple blood test with no preparation required
  No fasting or special preparation needed.
• Provides quick, clinically useful insight
  Guides further testing or reassurance.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time convenient for you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options provide the same laboratory accuracy and clinical reliability.

Understanding your Haemoglobin test results

Low haemoglobin levels

Low haemoglobin indicates anaemia, which may be caused by iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, blood loss, chronic disease, or inherited conditions.

Typical UK reference ranges:

• Adult men: ~130–180 g/L
• Adult women: ~115–165 g/L

Further testing is often required to identify the cause.

Normal haemoglobin levels

Normal levels indicate healthy red blood cell oxygen-carrying capacity.

Typical UK reference ranges:

• Within laboratory reference interval

Results should be interpreted alongside other blood markers if symptoms are present.

High haemoglobin levels

High haemoglobin levels may be associated with dehydration, smoking, lung disease, or conditions causing increased red blood cell production.

Typical UK reference ranges:

• Above laboratory reference interval

Clinical correlation and further assessment may be recommended.