Anemia: Is a Hemoglobin Level of 8 Serious?

Q: Anemia: Is a Hemoglobin Level of 8 Serious?

Hello： The normal hemoglobin level for females is 12 g/dL, and a level of only 8 g/dL is considered very low. <br>This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath with exertion, palpitations, and hair loss. <br>Whether the condition worsens if left untreated depen

Anemia issues

Hello, doctor.
Is a hemoglobin level of 8 considered very serious? What will happen if it is left untreated? Thank you.

Ru Ru, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/23

Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology

Hello: The normal hemoglobin level for females is 12 g/dL, and a level of only 8 g/dL is considered very low.
This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath with exertion, palpitations, and hair loss.
Whether the condition worsens if left untreated depends on the underlying cause of the anemia, which is not clear in this case.

Reply Date: 2020/11/23

More Info

A hemoglobin level of 8 grams per deciliter (g/dL) is considered quite low and indicates anemia, which can be serious depending on the underlying cause and the individual's overall health. Normal hemoglobin levels typically range from about 12 to 16 g/dL for women and 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men. When hemoglobin levels drop below these thresholds, it can lead to various symptoms and complications.

Anemia can result from several factors, including nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate), chronic diseases, bone marrow disorders, or blood loss. A hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and palpitations. In severe cases, it can cause more serious complications, including heart problems, especially if the individual has pre-existing heart conditions.

If left untreated, low hemoglobin levels can lead to worsening symptoms and complications. The body may struggle to deliver adequate oxygen to tissues and organs, which can result in increased strain on the heart as it works harder to pump blood. This can potentially lead to heart failure or other cardiovascular issues, particularly in older adults or those with existing health problems.

It is crucial to identify the underlying cause of the anemia. For instance, if the anemia is due to iron deficiency, iron supplementation and dietary changes may be necessary. If it is due to a chronic disease or bone marrow issue, more specialized treatment may be required. A healthcare provider may recommend further testing, such as a complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, vitamin levels, or even a bone marrow biopsy, depending on the clinical scenario.

In summary, a hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL is indeed serious and warrants prompt medical evaluation and intervention. Ignoring it could lead to significant health risks, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications, improving overall health and quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Anemia in Oncology: Is a Hemoglobin Level of 9.8 Serious?

Dear Doctor, my previous blood test report indicated that I have anemia, with a hemoglobin level of 9.8. Is this value considered very low? Is it serious? What could happen if I ignore it?

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
For a 33-year-old woman, a level of 9.8 is somewhat low. It is recommended to first consult a hematologist to investigate the cause of anemia. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for appropriate treatment.

Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Is a Normal Hemoglobin Level Possible?

Hello, doctor. I have thalassemia, and due to my job, I undergo annual health check-ups. Here are my hemoglobin reports from the past few years: 2016: 11.9, 2017: 11.8, 2018: 11.7, 2019: 10.3, 2020: 12.2. This year, my test results have returned to normal levels! Is this normal? ...

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is a normal phenomenon. For patients with thalassemia, a hemoglobin level above 9 is generally acceptable.

Understanding Mild Thalassemia: Impact on Health and Physical Performance

After my health check-up, I found out that I have mild thalassemia, with a hemoglobin level of 13.2 g/dL. The doctor mentioned that I have anemia. Will this affect my body and my physical work capacity?

Dr. Li Yuqi reply Family Medicine
Thalassemia is a hereditary form of anemia that is present at birth and does not affect overall health or physical performance.

Understanding Anemia in Adolescents: Iron Deficiency and Normal Ranges

Hello, doctor. I have a question. I was diagnosed with anemia in middle school, and I still have it in high school, but over these three years, my values have significantly increased, even though I still qualify as anemic. I would like to know if this is iron deficiency anemia. W...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
A 15-year-old female. MCV less than 80 is abnormal (microcytic), and Hb less than 12.5 indicates anemia. It is necessary to visit a major hospital's hematology department for in-depth testing, diagnosis, and treatment to determine if it is iron deficiency anemia. Hemoglobin ...