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What are the Functions of Hemoglobin?

What are the Functions of Hemoglobin?

In this article, we will discuss Hemoglobin functions. We will also discuss some common questions related to Hemoglobin.

What is Hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin contains a heme group and polypeptide chain with a quaternary protein present in the red blood cells (RBCs) and helps to give blood its colour. It is the iron-containing protein that has primary two functions i.e., to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues of the body. Another function is to carry carbon dioxide from all the cells or tissues from all organs to the lungs. Hemoglobin is important in maintaining the oxygen concentration in the blood and any change from the normal levels can have effects on the body. Anemia is the condition, when there is not enough hemoglobin in the blood to carry the oxygen to the whole of the body.

What are the Functions of Hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a natural substance that is very important for the normal functioning of the body. Any deficiency of hemoglobin can lead to disorders in the body. Here are the functions of hemoglobin:

Helps in Oxygen Transport

The Heme group containing Fe+2 ion is responsible for oxygen binding and carries to different parts of the body. Oxygen is bound with Hgb called oxyhemoglobin and Hgb without oxygen is called deoxyhemoglobin. Almost around 98% of the oxygen demand is carried by oxyhemoglobin molecules. This oxyhemoglobin carries oxygen to all parts of the body from the lungs.

Helps in Carbon dioxide Transport

The tendency of the heme group containing Fe+2 ion is also responsible for carbon dioxide binding. A total of 4 carbon dioxide molecules can be carried by one hemoglobin molecule. Carbaminohemoglobin is an Hbg molecule bound to a carbon dioxide molecule. Around 25% of carbon dioxide is carried by carbaminohemoglobin.

Helps in Ion transport and Gases

Hemoglobin is responsible for the transport of various gases other than oxygen and carbon dioxide. This is also responsible for the transport of sulfur monoxide, carbon monoxide, nitric oxide, nitrite ions etc. The affinity of the hemoglobin is 200 times more to carbon monoxide than oxygen and the molecule is called carboxyhemoglobin. It is better to remain away from the fire producing carbon monoxide gas, which can lead to death of the person.

Maintains Blood PH and acts as a Buffer

The capacity of haemoglobin to attach with the hydrogen ion helps to maintain the pH of the blood. This also helps to act as a buffer solution, which helps to resist the change that can occur in the blood pH.

Which Tests Are Used for Hemoglobin?

There are various types of tests used to detect the hemoglobin concentration in the blood:

Why choose Ganesh Diagnostic for a Hemoglobin Test?

Ganesh Diagnostic is one of the most respected and prestigious Diagnostic centres that provide hemoglobin tests. The radiological tests are backed by NABH accreditations and pathological by NABL accreditation for hemoglobin tests. The centre provides free blood sample collection from home at affordable rates for hemoglobin tests.

Conclusion

Hemoglobin contains a heme group and polypeptide chain with a quaternary protein present in the red blood cells (RBCs) and helps to give blood its colour. It is the iron-containing protein that has primary two functions i.e., to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues of the body. Different functions of haemoglobin include the transport of oxygen, transport of carbon dioxide, transport of ions, acts as a buffer solution etc. There are various tests used to detect the hemoglobin concentration in the blood like CBC, hematocrit, Reticulocyte count etc. A person can choose Ganesh Diagnostic for any haemoglobin-related test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is Hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin contains a heme group and polypeptide chain with a quaternary protein present in the red blood cells (RBCs) and helps to give blood its colour. It is the iron-containing protein that has primary two functions i.e., to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues of the body. Another function is to carry carbon dioxide from all the cells or tissues from all organs to the lungs.

What are the Functions of Hemoglobin?

Different functions of haemoglobin include the transport of oxygen, transport of carbon dioxide, transport of ions, acts as a buffer solution etc.

What are the various conditions of low Hemoglobin?

Low hemoglobin condition can result in anaemia, sickle cell anaemia, hemoglobin C disease, hemoglobin E disease etc.

What are the diseases of high Hemoglobin?

High hemoglobin conditions can lead to polycythemia vera, cancer, heart disease, lung disease etc.

What is the Normal Range of Hemoglobin in Men?

The normal range of hemoglobin in males ranges from 13.5 to 17.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

What is the Normal Range of Hemoglobin in Females?

The normal range of hemoglobin in females ranges from 12.0 to 15.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

What is the Normal Range of Hemoglobin in Children?

The normal range of hemoglobin in children ranges from 13.5 to 17.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

What is the Normal Range of Hemoglobin in Pregnant Women?

The normal range of hemoglobin in pregnant women is typically greater than 10 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

How to book an appointment for a Hemoglobin Test in Delhi?

Patients can visit Ganesh's diagnostic website or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 to book an appointment for any Hemoglobin test in Delhi.

Where are the Ganesh Diagnostic Centres in Delhi for Hemoglobin Test?

Ganesh Diagnostic centres in Delhi for hemoglobin tests are present in Rohini, Nangloi, Model Town, Hari Nagar, Mangol Puri and Yamuna Vihar.