Understanding Low MCH Blood Test Results
Know about the Low MCH blood test results, what does it indicate, symptoms and causes of low MCH. learn about how to improve low MCH levels.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 29th Jul, 2025
If you’ve recently had a blood test and your doctor mentioned that your Mean Corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) levels are low, you might be wondering what that means and whether it’s something to worry about. Don’t stress—this article will help you understand what MCH is, why it might be low, and what you can do about it.
What Is MCH?
MCH stands for Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin, which is a measure of the average amount of haemoglobin in your red blood cells. Haemoglobin is the protein that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. A low MCH level means your red blood cells have less haemoglobin than they should, which can affect how well oxygen is transported in your body.
What Does a Low MCH Indicate?
A low MCH level is often a sign of anaemia, a condition where your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. There are different types of anaemia, but the most common ones linked to low MCH include:
- Iron-deficiency anaemia – This happens when your body doesn’t have enough iron to make haemoglobin.
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia – These vitamins are essential for red blood cell production.
- Chronic diseases – Conditions like kidney disease or inflammatory disorders can affect haemoglobin levels.
Symptoms of Low MCH
If your MCH is low, you might experience:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Brittle nails
- Headaches
These symptoms occur because your body isn’t getting enough oxygen. If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to get a blood test to check your MCH levels.
Causes of Low MCH
Several factors can lead to low MCH levels, including:
1. Poor Diet (Lack of Iron, Vitamin B12, or Folate)
A diet low in iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, red meat, and beans) or lacking in vitamin B12 (found in eggs, dairy, and fish) can cause anaemia.
2. Blood Loss
Heavy menstrual periods, ulcers, or internal bleeding can reduce iron levels, leading to low MCH.
3. Chronic Illnesses
Conditions like kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or infections can interfere with red blood cell production.
4. Pregnancy
Pregnant women often need more iron, and a deficiency can lead to low MCH.
Consult a General physician
5. Genetic Conditions
Some inherited disorders, like thalassemia, affect haemoglobin production.
How to Improve Low MCH Levels
The good news is that low MCH is often treatable with simple lifestyle changes and medical care. Here’s what you can do:
1. Eat Iron-Rich Foods
Increase your intake of:
- Heme iron (easily absorbed): Red meat, poultry, fish.
- Non-heme iron (plant-based): Spinach, lentils, tofu, nuts, and fortified cereals.
Tip: Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C (like oranges or bell peppers) to boost absorption.
2. Take Supplements (If Needed)
If diet alone isn’t enough, your doctor may recommend:
- Iron supplements
- Vitamin B12 or folate supplements
- Note: Always consult a doctor before starting supplements, as too much iron can be harmful.
3. Treat Underlying Conditions
If a chronic illness is causing low MCH, managing that condition (like kidney disease or inflammation) can help improve haemoglobin levels.
4. Avoid Iron Blockers
Some foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, and calcium-rich foods) can interfere with iron absorption. Try to consume them separately from iron-rich meals.
5. Get Regular Blood Tests
Monitoring your MCH levels helps track improvement and ensures treatment is working.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent fatigue, dizziness, or other anaemia symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor. They may recommend:
A complete blood count (CBC) test to check MCH and other blood markers.
Additional tests to determine the cause (like iron studies or vitamin B12 levels).
If needed, you can easily book a blood test or consult a haematologist through Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Final Thoughts
Low MCH levels are usually a sign of anaemia, often due to iron or vitamin deficiencies. While it can cause tiredness and other symptoms, the condition is manageable with dietary changes, supplements, and medical care. If you suspect low MCH, don’t ignore it—get tested and take steps to improve your health.
Consult a General physician
Consult a General physician
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Consult a General physician
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr D M Karthik
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus, Advance certificate in Diabetes Mellitus, Derma Nutrition Certification
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mohammed Kamran
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS, FIDM
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Suraja Nutulapati
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
(875+ Patients)
