Hemoglobin, the oxygen transport molecule in red blood cells, and hematocrit, the percentage of the blood volume that is made up of red blood cells, are two important numbers for you to know. These values will help you know whether you are anemic and at risk of needing a transfusion should you require surgery. Even if you do not need surgery, having anemia treated may improve your overall health and feeling of well-being.
If your hemoglobin and hematocrit values are too high or too low, your doctor may recommend treatment to normalize them. Sometimes the hemoglobin and hematocrit value may be normal, but you may still be low in iron or other nutrients or vitamins needed for blood production and your doctor may make recommended treatment.
Normal hemoglobin and hematocrit ranges
| |
Hemoglobin |
Hematocrit |
| Male |
13 -17 g/dL |
42 - 51% |
| Female |
12 -15 g/dL |
36 - 45% |
Normal ranges for iron studies
| Iron Study |
Normal range |
| Iron |
45-182 mg/dL |
| Iron Binding |
261-478 mg/dL |
| TransFerrin Saturation (TSAT) |
20-45% |
| Ferritin |
45-400 ng/mL |
Normal range for vitamin B12 is 300-900 pg/mL