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Plan

Blood Count

Haemoglobin (Hb)

Blood Count

Haemoglobin (Hb)

Oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Screens for anaemia.

99 SEK

VAT-exempt medical service

  • Results in 5 working days
  • 116 sampling locations
  • No doctor's referral needed
  • Sample: Blood (venous)
Find a sampling location →

What does this test measure?

Hemoglobin (Hb) is the most commonly measured marker of blood health. It binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it where the body needs it. Low hemoglobin is the hallmark of anemia, while elevated levels can signal dehydration, lung disease, or bone-marrow overproduction. A simple blood test provides a fast snapshot of your oxygen-carrying capacity.

Testing hemoglobin helps detect anemia early, evaluate blood loss, monitor chronic disease, and assess overall oxygen transport. It is a core component of every complete blood count (CBC) and is recommended before surgery, during pregnancy, and whenever fatigue or pallor is unexplained.

What a high value can mean

Elevated hemoglobin (polycythemia) may be caused by dehydration, chronic lung disease, heavy smoking, or bone marrow disorders such as polycythemia vera. Symptoms can include headache, facial redness, dizziness, and an increased risk of blood clots.

What a low value can mean

Low hemoglobin (anemia) indicates reduced oxygen delivery. Common causes include iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic kidney disease, and bone marrow dysfunction. It can also follow significant blood loss.

Read more about this marker →

Associated symptoms

  • Persistent fatigue and weakness
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Shortness of breath on exertion
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Headache and difficulty concentrating

Who should consider this test

  • Anyone experiencing unexplained fatigue or pallor
  • Women with heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Pregnant women
  • People with chronic kidney or lung disease
  • Athletes monitoring oxygen capacity

Before your appointment

No special preparation is needed. Bring valid ID to your appointment.

  • Bring photo ID to the sampling location.
  • You do not need a doctor's referral — your referral is issued when you order.
  • Tell the staff which test you have ordered if they ask.

How it works

  1. 1

    Order your test

    Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.

  2. 2

    Give your sample

    Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.

  3. 3

    The lab analyses it

    Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.

  4. 4

    Get your results

    Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.

Good to know

What is a normal hemoglobin level?

For adult men the reference range is typically 130–170 g/L; for adult women 120–150 g/L. Ranges can vary slightly between laboratories.

Can diet affect hemoglobin?

Yes. Iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, leafy greens), vitamin C taken alongside plant foods that contain iron, which may enhance absorption, and adequate B12 and folate all support healthy hemoglobin production.

How often should I test hemoglobin?

For most people an annual check is sufficient. If you have known anemia or a chronic condition, your doctor may recommend testing every 3–6 months.