What is the reason for low average hemoglobin levels

Low average hemoglobin levels may be caused by iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, chronic disease anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, and folate deficiency, and can be improved by supplementing hematopoietic materials and treating the underlying disease.

1. Iron deficiency anemia:

Iron is a key raw material for the synthesis of hemoglobin, and long-term insufficient iron intake or absorption disorders can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin synthesis. Commonly seen in cannibalistic groups, patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, and pregnant women, characterized by fatigue and brittle nails. Diagnosis needs to be confirmed through serum ferritin testing. Treatment mainly involves oral iron supplements, while increasing intake of iron rich foods such as red meat and animal liver.

2. Mediterranean anemia:

This is a hereditary disorder of hemoglobin synthesis, where an imbalance in the proportion of globin peptide chains leads to a shortened lifespan of red blood cells. South China is a high-risk area, and patients often have symptoms such as splenomegaly and jaundice. Genetic testing can provide a clear diagnosis. Mild cases usually do not require treatment, while moderate to severe cases require regular blood transfusions or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

3. Chronic disease anemia:

Chronic inflammation, tumors, or autoimmune diseases can interfere with iron metabolism and inhibit bone marrow hematopoietic function. Rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and other common conditions are characterized by persistent low-grade fever and worsening of primary symptoms. It is necessary to control the primary disease and use erythropoietin to improve anemia if necessary.

4. Vitamin B12 deficiency:

Long term vegetarianism or gastric surgery can easily lead to insufficient absorption of vitamin B12, affecting red blood cell maturation. Typical symptoms include numbness in the hands and feet, glossitis, and in severe cases, neurological damage. Serum vitamin B12 testing can confirm the diagnosis, and treatment requires intramuscular injection of vitamin B12 injection. Daily consumption of fish, eggs, and dairy products can be moderate.

5. Folic acid deficiency:

Folic acid is involved in DNA synthesis and is prone to deficiency in individuals with increased demand during pregnancy or alcohol abuse. Commonly seen in pregnant women, accompanied by symptoms such as oral ulcers and diarrhea. Serum folate testing can assist in diagnosis, and oral folate tablets combined with intake of dark green vegetables and legumes can effectively improve the condition.

It is necessary to maintain a balanced diet in daily life, with a focus on supplementing foods rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12, such as spinach, pork liver, salmon, etc. Long term vegetarians should regularly monitor their hemoglobin levels, and chronic disease patients should actively control underlying diseases. Avoid strong tea or coffee that can affect iron absorption, and drink it two hours after meals. When obvious symptoms such as dizziness and palpitations occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible for specialized examinations such as blood routine and iron metabolism to rule out the possibility of malignant hematological diseases.