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This is an archive article published on October 17, 2024
Here’s what happens to the body when your haemoglobin level is consistently high
Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body
Too much haemoglobin can also be problematic (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Nothing too much or too little is good for the body. Hence, just like low haemoglobin levels (less than 13.2 g/dL for men and 11.6 g/dL for women) necessitate medical intervention, high haemoglobin levels are a cause for concern too. As such, let’s understand what really happens to the body when your haemoglobin levels are consistently high.
What is haemoglobin?
Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. “When its level is too high (more than 16.6 g/dL for men and 15 g/dL for women), the blood becomes thicker and flows slower, increasing the risk of complications,” said Dr Maneendra, consultant and HOD critical care department, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad.
He added that some common causes of high haemoglobin include living at high altitudes, chronic smoking, dehydration, or conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which limit oxygen intake. “In more serious cases, it can be linked to bone marrow disorders such as polycythemia vera, a rare blood disease that causes the body to produce too many red blood cells,” Dr Maneendra told indianexpress.com.
Causes
Several factors can contribute to a sudden spike in haemoglobin levels, including not drinking water throughout the day as it could lead to dehydration and a decrease in blood volume. “Individuals with heart conditions, lung diseases, and certain blood disorders are more likely to experience high concentrations of haemoglobin in the blood,” said Dr Muralidaran C, consultant haematologist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road.
Not drinking enough water could also lead to thicker blood (Source: Freepik)
Potential risks
Blood clots: Thicker blood increases the risk of clot formation, leading to heart attacks, strokes, or deep vein thrombosis.
Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure can result from the increased viscosity of the blood.
Fatigue and dizziness: Paradoxically, despite high oxygen-carrying capacity, individuals may experience fatigue due to poor circulation.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may involve “therapeutic phlebotomy (removing blood) or medications to reduce red blood cell production and minimise clotting risks“, said Dr Maneendra.
Tips for prevention
Dr Muralidaran advised proactive measures and lifestyle adjustments to “effectively manage high haemoglobin levels. “This includes eating a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated by drinking more than 1 to 2 liters of water per day, engaging in exercises for more than 45 minutes a day, managing stress, and avoiding alcohol or smoking,” said Dr Muralidaran.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
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