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When to see a doctor
By Mayo Clinic staffA low hemoglobin count is often discovered during a complete blood count test. If your test reveals you have a low hemoglobin count, ask your doctor what this means for you.
Make an appointment if you have signs and symptoms
If you experience signs and symptoms of a low hemoglobin count, make an appointment with your doctor. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Faster than normal heartbeat during exercise or activity
- Fatigue
- Feeling short of breath
- Lack of energy during your usual activities
- Pale skin and gums
Your doctor may recommend a complete blood count test to determine whether you have a low hemoglobin count or whether your signs and symptoms are caused by something else.
References
- Schrier SL. Approach to the adult patient with anemia. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed April 4, 2012.
- McPherson RA, et al. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2011. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/page.do?eid=4-u1.0-B978-1-4377-0974-2..00032-4&isbn=978-1-4377-0974-2&uniqId=327813426-7#4-u1.0-B978-1-4377-0974-2..00032-4. Accessed April 4, 2012.
- Hussein M, et al. Approach to anemia. Disease-a-Month. 2010;56:449.
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