Have you ever been tired, weak, or dizzy, and wondered what might be wrong with your blood? Hemoglobin levels have a significant influence on your health. It transfers oxygen from your lungs to the body. On a day that it is low, you end up feeling tired.
At very high levels, it can be an indicator of an issue. It is good because you can now test your hemoglobin at home. You do not necessarily have to visit a clinic. In this blog, everything is explained in easy steps.
Hemoglobin in a Blood Test: What is Hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is a protein within red blood cells. It has the primary task of transporting oxygen and getting carbon dioxide back to your lungs. When you do a blood test, hemoglobin reveals the capacity of your blood to carry oxygen. The normal ranges of men, women, and children vary. If the levels are low, you can experience anemia. When the levels increase, it might imply dehydration or some other problem. A test will enable you to learn what is going on within your body.
Reasons to Have a Hemoglobin Test?
A hemoglobin test is important to all people, not just the sick individuals. Good oxygen flow in the body is vital to your health. Testing assists you in the early detection of issues. The primary reasons as to why you require this test are:
- To identify anemia in the early stages and prevent severe weakness.
- To test for iron and folate deficiency.
- To check chronic health problems such as kidney disease and diabetes.
- To monitor postoperative recovery, illness, or loss of blood.
- To assess the level of fitness, if you are athletic or exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy pregnancy for the mother and the baby.
When you check hemoglobin, you get responses regarding your energy, oxygen, and health in general.
Lab test vs Haemoglobin test at Home
You might be asking yourself whether a home test is as good as the lab test. Both have benefits. Let’s look at how they compare:
Lab test
You go to a clinic, take blood from your arm, and wait days to get results. It is true, more inconvenient and more expensive.
Home test
You scratch your finger, add a drop of blood to a strip or machine, and within minutes, you can get the results. It is simple, friendly, and secure.
Lab test
This type of test is best used when physicians require all the information to make a diagnosis. It involves other indicators such as the red cell count, but not only hemoglobin.
See More: Can Stress Cause High Red Blood Cell Count?
At-home test
Ideal for frequent at-home tests. It also assists you in monitoring the developments at an early stage and prevents those visits that are not necessary because of minor issues.
Therefore, when you require an overall medical examination, visit a lab. When you prefer to stay informed fast and be at ease, a hemoglobin test at home suits you.
Types of Hemoglobin Tests You Can Do at Home
The kinds of Hemoglobin Tests You can complete at home
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Hemoglobin Test Kits
These kits will involve taking a drop of blood with the help of a finger prick. You either put it on a strip or inside a portable device. The results become ready in minutes and, therefore, are quick and convenient. They are consistent with frequent monitoring, although not as detailed as lab tests.
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Hemoglobin Solubility Test
This test is used to identify abnormal hemoglobin, e.g., sickle cell disease. A drop of blood is combined with a special solution, and its reaction is observed. Although useful in identifying abnormalities, it does not give a complete picture of the general health of the blood.
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Hemoglobin POC Testing Devices
They are movable devices that provide digital outcomes in minutes. Initially, they were only used in clinics, but they can be used at home. They are more precise than the simple kits and more expensive. They are easy to use, with their digital display being easy and clear to understand.
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Hemoglobin Urine Test
This urine test is used to test whether there is hemoglobin or not. It could signify breakdown of red blood cells or kidney-related complications. Although it may be an effective indicator of potential health issues, it does not substitute for the precision of a regular blood-based test of hemoglobin.
How to Check Hemoglobin at Home Without a Blood Test
Some devices allow one to check hemoglobin without using a needle. They scan your skin with light sensors. Hemoglobin is also claimed to be tracked by pulse oximeters and mobile apps. These are non-invasive and easy techniques that are not entirely accurate. You can use them to make quick tests, however, to really get good results, a test kit is preferable.
How to select the Best Hemoglobin Test at Home.
You ought to select a kit that is precise, secure, and convenient. Seek FDA or CE approval prior to purchase. Digital meters are trendy as they present numbers in a clear manner. Consider the cost, particularly when you do frequent testing. Certain equipment requires strips, and this implies a continuous cost. Your optimal test is one that balances accuracy, budget, and convenience.
How to Use a Hemoglobin Test Kit at Home
- Clean your hands with soap and water and dry them completely before arranging the kit on a clean surface so that you can start the test process.
- Hold the lancet with your fingertip and prick it into the skin. A small drop of blood will appear quickly on your finger.
- Collect the drop of blood using the strip or device provided. Make sure the drop is clear and avoid smearing it to keep results accurate.
- Insert the strip into the device or allow the card to react with the blood drop. Wait calmly for the result to appear on the display.
- Read the number shown on the screen or check the color change on the strip. Write down your results to compare with future tests.
- Dispose of the strip and lancet safely. Wipe your finger with cotton to avoid infection and irritation after pricking.
When to See a Doctor
- The hemoglobin level is very low or too high, so you should see a doctor.
- When you experience weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, and even when it appears your home test is fine, you need medical consultation.
- During pregnancy, pregnant women are expected to visit a doctor to have a regular hemoglobin test.
- Home tests should not be the only option for people with diabetes, kidney issues, or heart conditions.
- When you experience some strange bleeding, dark urine, or excessive fatigue, you have to visit the doctor and have the lab thoroughly examined.
Conclusion
Hemoglobin home tests are convenient. It provides prompt solutions and leaves you out of clinical lines. You may monitor your health, identify changes over time, and be safe. However, it is best to keep in mind that medical care does not substitute for a home test. Never ignore any strange results or symptoms and always communicate with your doctor. Regular checks guarantee your energy, strength, and general health.
FAQs
Is it possible to check my hemoglobin at home without going to the doctor?
Home kits require a small finger prick. The outcome is obtained within a few minutes, and hence, facts can be easily checked by routine. Nevertheless, never trust strange results without a lab test and a doctor.
What is the most effective hemoglobin test kit at home?
The most suitable kit is the one that is approved by the FDA and is user-friendly. A large number of individuals like digital meters because they can read them clearly. Select one that is not expensive and that can provide true results to use on a daily basis.
Are lab tests as accurate as home hemoglobin tests?
Home tests are useful in checking quickly, however, labs are more accurate. Kits at home assist in monitoring the changes, however, the serious concerns are always to be verified by a relevant lab test.
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