Skip to main content
Go to homepage

Print Page

Blood Test: Hemoglobin

What Is a Blood Test?

By taking and testing a small sample of a person’s blood, doctors can check for many kinds of diseases and conditions. Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful.

To help your child get ready for a blood test, find out if they need to fast (not eat or drink) or should stop taking medicines before the test. Explain what to expect during the test. If your child is anxious about it, work together on ways to stay calm.

What Is a Hemoglobin Test?

Hemoglobin (HEE-muh-glow-bin) is a protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. A hemoglobin blood test helps doctors check the level of red blood cells. Red blood cells deliver oxygen to the different parts of the body.

Why Are Hemoglobin Tests Done?

Doctors will order a hemoglobin test to check for low or high levels of red blood cells. They might do this as part of a routine checkup to screen for problems and or because a child isn't feeling well. Having a low number of red blood cells is called anemia. When the level is high, it's called polycythemia (pol-ee-sy-THEE-me-uh).

What if I Have Questions?

If you have questions about the hemoglobin test or what the results of the test mean, speak with your doctor.

 

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date Reviewed: Sep 1, 2021

Lea este articulo en Español

What next?

Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
There are 10 nurses in the picture.

And we have many more pediatric primary care providers in Northeast Ohio. You can meet some of them here.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The five differences are:
– Phone color
– Coat pocket
– Stethoscope earpiece color
– Stethoscope bell dot
– Clipboard paper color

Need help finding a doctor, choosing a location or getting a general question about Akron Children's answered? Call us or fill out the form and we'll help in any way we can.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The two matching doctors are 9 and 14.

With virtual visits, you can see our pediatric experts from the comfort of home or wherever you are.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The correct path:
The Correct Path
We offer many ways to get pediatric care all over Northeast Ohio. Use this page to find the right kind of care and the most convenient location for you.