Haemoglobin level

[difficultpickle]

Tried to give blood today but wasn't able to as my haemoglobin level was 106g/l. They said that was low but stupidly I didn't ask what would be considered to be a normal level. They gave me a leaflet and told me to see my GP. The leaflet listed foods I should eat to boost my iron levels but I already eat everything on the list (with the exception of tofu!).

What is a normal level for a 40 something female? I don't feel ill at all although I am overweight (if that makes a difference). I think I have a pretty balanced and healthy diet. Should I be concerned or is the blood service being over cautious.

hopeful bump

No one knows?

I'm waiting for someone more qualified to come along. My knowledge is based on working in a haematology lab twenty years ago.

Normal range for an adult woman is 12-16 g/dL, or 120-160 g/l.

Lots of women are lower than this, normally for menstrual reasons. Your GP can do tests to confirm the cause, and give treatment if necessary. My Hb is similar to yours and I'm 39 and three quarters. I don't feel anaemic either, but do have v heavy periods.

Obviously do go and see your GP, and get the actual cause of your blood test.

As Mad says normal range for women is about 120 or more and women do tend to go lower more frequently due to gynae issues etc. From what I remember the blood transfusion result is based on a simple test while you wait rather than a formal blood sample going off to the lab. I would suggest a trip to GP to get a formal blood test then follow up from there. Nothing to worry about in the meantime - 106 is ok and you've clearly got no symptoms of anaemia but they wouldn't take blood from you with those levels as after donation you would be lower than 106 and may well get symptoms.

There are causes other than menstrual, so GP visit is important.

Thanks. Last night I thought I'd just get some iron tablets but a bit of googling means I will be off to see my GP.