Hemoglobin · low result
What does a low Hemoglobin mean?
Short answer
Low hemoglobin is anemia. The MCV points to the type: small cells (low MCV) suggest iron deficiency or thalassemia trait; large cells (high MCV) suggest B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol or liver disease; normal-sized cells suggest recent blood loss, chronic disease, or kidney disease. Ferritin, B12, folate and a reticulocyte count usually identify the cause.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Hemoglobin below about 8 g/dL, or anemia with chest pain, fainting or shortness of breath at rest — same-day care
What is the normal range for Hemoglobin?
- Male, age 18+: 13.5 – 17.5 g/dL
- Female, age 18+: 12.0 – 15.5 g/dL
Commonly associated with anemia from iron deficiency, blood loss, chronic disease, or certain vitamin deficiencies.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Hemoglobin biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Hemoglobin?
- Iron deficiency — heavy periods, GI blood loss, low intake, malabsorption
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- Chronic disease or inflammation, chronic kidney disease
- Recent blood loss or surgery
- Thalassemia trait and other inherited red-cell conditions
- Bone-marrow disorders, hemolysis (less common)
What symptoms go with low Hemoglobin?
- Fatigue, weakness
- Shortness of breath on exertion, palpitations
- Pale skin, headaches, cold hands and feet
- Restless legs, ice craving in iron deficiency
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Review MCV, RDW and reticulocyte count
- Ferritin and iron panel; B12 and folate
- Kidney function, TSH, CRP
- In men and post-menopausal women, evaluation for GI blood loss
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99), Ferritin ($24.99), Iron Panel (Iron, TIBC & Ferritin) ($32.99), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) ($26.99), Folate (Vitamin B9) ($32.99).
How do you recheck Hemoglobin?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
| Blood Clotting Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $149.99 | No | 3–7 business days |
| Baseline Anemia Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $74.99 | Yes | 2–4 business days |
| CBC with Differential | Test · 14 biomarkers | $21.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
What hemoglobin level is anemia?
Below about 13.5 g/dL in men and 12.0 g/dL in non-pregnant women by most lab ranges (the WHO uses 13 and 12). Mild anemia still deserves a cause.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.