Understanding Your Blood Counts

Blood is composed of cells that move around in a watery substance called plasma. The three basic types of cells in blood are red cells, white cells and platelets.

It works like this: Your body uses oxygen to produce energy. The hemoglobin (Hb) in red blood cells carries oxygen to all parts of the body, providing the energy needed for normal activities, and removes carbon dioxide. When you have anemia, less oxygen reaches your muscles and organs like your heart. Not having enough red blood cells to carry oxygen places extra demands on your body.

White cells fight infection and harmful substances that invade the body. Platelets help stop bleeding by plugging leaks in blood vessels. It takes all three working together properly to perform vital bodily tasks. To know your blood cells are working, a complete blood count (CBC) is needed to measure the levels, or counts, of the different types of cells in the blood.

Regular CBC (complete blood count) testing can help catch a low or high blood count so it can be treated before it becomes serious.

Know Your Hemoglobin Count

It is important for you to know your hemoglobin count.

The normal hemoglobin count (or level) is:

• 140 g/L to 180 g/L for men
• 120 g/L to 160 g/L for women

If your hemoglobin count is lower than the normal range and you always feel tired, ask your doctor about treatment to raise your Hemoglobin count.

Hemoglobin is measured in grams (g) per liter (L). The average hemoglobin value for men is 160 g/L and for women is 140 g/L. However, the definition of "normal" varies from person to person. If your hemoglobin is outside the normal range, contact your health care provider.