Urgent Concerns About Low Hemoglobin Levels Before Medical Exam

I have a low hemoglobin level in my health check-up. I'm really anxious about it; please help me?

On October 2nd, my blood test showed a hemoglobin level of 9.9, while the first test was 9.6.
I need to pass a level of 11.6 before the end of October to qualify for my desired military service.
I don't want all my efforts to go to waste because of this.
My health is generally normal; the only issue is that I feel very sleepy when I have my period, but I don't have any significant symptoms of anemia.
I went to a family medicine clinic to investigate the cause of my anemia after the blood test, and I will know the results next week.
However, the doctor mentioned that it is urgent and that I may need a blood transfusion.
Although I am trying to improve my diet, I am concerned that I won't be able to raise my levels in time for the next test, which would mean another blood draw would be wasted.

Therefore, I plan to have a blood transfusion before my next blood test.
Will a blood transfusion raise my hemoglobin level to 11.5? Can I have the blood test immediately after the transfusion? Would it be easier to pass the test if I do it right away? I have bruises on both arms from the first and follow-up blood draws; will this affect my next blood test? Thank you, doctor.

Wawa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/04

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding anemia, it is important to identify the underlying cause.
If necessary, a referral to a hematologist for further evaluation may be required.
As for blood transfusions, it depends on whether there are life-threatening indications based on clinical assessment.
Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/10/04

More Info

It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with your hemoglobin levels, especially with an important medical exam approaching. Your concern about your hemoglobin levels dropping to 9.6 and 9.9 is valid, particularly since you need to reach a level of at least 11.6. Let's break down your situation and explore your options.

First, it's essential to understand that hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout your body. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, which you may not be experiencing significantly, except for feeling tired during your menstrual cycle. However, the fact that your levels are below the normal range is concerning, especially since you have a specific target to meet.

Regarding your question about blood transfusions, receiving a transfusion can indeed raise your hemoglobin levels relatively quickly. Typically, a unit of packed red blood cells can increase hemoglobin by approximately 1 g/dL in an average adult. Therefore, if you receive a transfusion, it is plausible that your hemoglobin could rise to the desired level of 11.5 or higher, depending on your body's response and the amount of blood transfused.

However, there are several important considerations:
1. Timing of the Transfusion: If you decide to go ahead with a transfusion, it is crucial to allow enough time for your body to respond before your next blood test. Transfusions can take a few hours, and while you might feel an immediate improvement, it is advisable to wait at least a few hours after the transfusion before having your blood drawn again. This allows for accurate measurement of your hemoglobin levels post-transfusion.

2. Bruising from Previous Draws: The bruising from your previous blood draws should not significantly affect your next blood test. However, if the bruising is extensive, it might be advisable to use a different site for the next blood draw to avoid any complications or discomfort.

3. Underlying Causes of Anemia: While you are considering a transfusion, it is also important to address the underlying cause of your anemia. You mentioned that you have been working on dietary improvements, which is excellent. Foods rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate can help improve your hemoglobin levels over time. Additionally, if your doctor has ordered tests to determine the cause of your anemia, it is crucial to follow up on those results to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed.

4. Consultation with Your Healthcare Provider: Before making any decisions about a transfusion, it is essential to discuss your concerns and options with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. They may also suggest alternative treatments or interventions that could help raise your hemoglobin levels without the need for a transfusion.

In conclusion, while a blood transfusion can be an effective way to quickly raise your hemoglobin levels, it is essential to consider the timing and underlying causes of your anemia. Make sure to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and the urgency of your situation. They will be able to guide you through the best course of action to ensure you meet the requirements for your upcoming exam while also addressing your overall health.

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