Haemoglobin is an essential protein found in red blood cells, and it plays an important role in the human body. Haemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It also helps to transport carbon dioxide from the body back to the lungs, so it can be exhaled. Without haemoglobin, our bodies would not be able to receive the oxygen necessary to function properly.
Haemoglobin also helps to regulate the acid-base balance in the blood. It binds with acids, releasing them from the body, and binds with bases, helping to neutralize them. This helps to maintain the pH balance of the blood, which is essential for keeping cells healthy. Let’s know about the consequences of haemoglobin deficiency:
Consequences Of Haemoglobin Deficiency
Anaemia
Low hemoglobin levels can lead to a condition called anemia, which is a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Anemia can cause fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
As per research, Iron deficiency anaemia is expected to impair the health of over one billion people worldwide, with less developed countries bearing the biggest burden of disease, particularly women of reproductive age and children.
Poor Circulation
Low hemoglobin levels can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which can cause poor circulation. This can cause a number of issues, including cold hands and feet, numbness, muscle cramps, and slow healing of wounds.
Heart Disease
Low hemoglobin levels can increase the risk of heart disease, as the heart is unable to pump enough oxygenated blood throughout the body. According to journal of Korean Medical Science, haemoglobin concentration impacts the cardiovascular health of a person.
Cognitive Impairment
Research says low hemoglobin levels can lead to impaired cognitive functioning, such as difficulty concentrating and memory problems. As per research, low haemoglobin can lead to persistent brain hypoxia and decreased aerobic capacity, increasing the risk of dementia or cognitive decline. Clinically, cerebral ischemia is a known risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia.
Increased Risk Of Infections
Low hemoglobin levels can also make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. Research says the continuous delivery of oxygen to the tissue via microcirculation is critical for healing and infection resistance.
Pregnancy Complications
Low hemoglobin levels during pregnancy can cause a number of problems, such as preterm labor and delivery, low birth weight, and an increased risk of developing postpartum depression.
Haemoglobin is also essential for maintaining healthy red blood cells. Without it, red blood cells would not be able to transport oxygen efficiently. This would lead to a lack of oxygen in the body, which would cause fatigue and other health issues.
Haemoglobin is a vital component of the human body, and it is essential for maintaining good health. It helps to regulate the acid-base balance of the blood, transport oxygen around the body, and maintain healthy red blood cells. Without it, our bodies would not be able to function properly.
