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Check Blood Haemoglobin Levels at Home

Easily check your haemoglobin levels at home with test kits or portable devices. Learn what your levels mean and how to maintain healthy haemoglobin.

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Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan

Reviewed by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair MBBS

Last updated on 3rd Aug, 2025

Introduction

Maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels is crucial for overall well-being. Haemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Low haemoglobin levels can lead to anaemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and other health issues. Fortunately, you can now check your haemoglobin levels conveniently at home.

In this article, we’ll explain why haemoglobin is important, how to test it at home, and what steps you can take to maintain healthy levels.

Why Should You Check Haemoglobin Levels?

Haemoglobin plays a vital role in keeping your body energised and functioning properly. If your haemoglobin is too low (anaemia), you may experience:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Shortness of breath

  • Pale skin

  • Dizziness or headaches

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Irregular heartbeat

On the other hand, high haemoglobin levels (polycythemia) can also cause complications like blood clots. Regular monitoring helps detect imbalances early, allowing timely intervention.

How to Check Haemoglobin Levels at Home

Thanks to modern technology, you no longer need to visit a lab for a haemoglobin test. Here’s how you can check it at home:

1. Use a Home Haemoglobin Test Kit

Many reliable finger-prick haemoglobin test kits are available. These kits include:

  • A lancet (tiny needle) to prick your finger

  • A test strip or device to collect blood

  • A digital reader or colour chart to measure haemoglobin

Steps to Use the Kit:

1. Wash your hands and clean your fingertips with an alcohol swab.

2. Prick your finger with the lancet.

3. Place a drop of blood on the test strip or into the device.

4. Wait for the result (usually within a few seconds).

2. Portable Haemoglobin Meters

Some advanced devices, like hemoglobinometers, provide quick and accurate readings. These are especially useful for people with chronic conditions like anaemia or kidney disease.

3. Telehealth Consultations & Lab Tests at Home

If you prefer professional testing, you can book a home blood test through Apollo 24|7. A trained technician will collect your sample, and results will be available digitally.

What Do Your Haemoglobin Levels Mean?

Normal haemoglobin levels vary by age and gender:

GroupNormal Hemoglobin Range (g/dL)
Adult Men13.8 – 17.2 g/dL
Adult Women12.1 – 15.1 g/dL
Children (6–18 yrs)11 – 16 g/dL
Pregnant Women11 – 15 g/dL

  • Low Haemoglobin (Anaemia): Could be due to iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic diseases, or blood loss.

  • High Haemoglobin: May indicate dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders.

If your levels are outside the normal range, consult a doctor for further evaluation.

Consult a Top Physician For More Health Benefits

Dr. Swagata Sircar, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Swagata Sircar

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

81%

(50+ Patients)

600

600

Divyashree K, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Divyashree K

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine

Bengaluru

Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru

550

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Tips to Maintain Healthy Haemoglobin Levels

Here are some tips to maintain a healthy haemoglobin level:

1. Eat Iron-Rich Foods

Iron is essential for haemoglobin production. Include:

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

  • Red meat, poultry, and fish

  • Beans, lentils, tofu

  • Fortified cereals

2. Boost Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C helps absorb iron better. Eat citrus fruits, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can falsely increase haemoglobin levels. Drink enough water daily.

4. Avoid Iron Blockers

Tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods can reduce iron absorption. Consume them between meals.

5. Exercise Regularly

Moderate exercise improves blood circulation and oxygen delivery.

6. Consider Supplements (If Needed)

If diet alone isn’t enough, your doctor may recommend iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid supplements.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a healthcare provider if:

  • You frequently feel tired or dizzy

  • Your home test shows abnormal haemoglobin levels

  • You have symptoms like pale skin or rapid heartbeat

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

Book a Haemoglobin Test with Apollo 24|7

If you prefer professional testing, Apollo 24|7 offers:

  • Home blood sample collection

  • Accurate lab reports

  • Doctor consultations online

[Click here to book a haemoglobin test now!]

Conclusion

Checking haemoglobin levels at home is simple, quick, and helps you stay proactive about your health. By maintaining a balanced diet and monitoring your levels, you can prevent anaemia and other related conditions.

Consult a Top Physician For More Health Benefits

Dr. Swagata Sircar, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Swagata Sircar

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

81%

(50+ Patients)

600

600

Divyashree K, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Divyashree K

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine

Bengaluru

Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru

550

83 Cashback

Consult a Top Physician For More Health Benefits

Dr. Swagata Sircar, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Swagata Sircar

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

81%

(50+ Patients)

600

600

Divyashree K, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Divyashree K

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Smitha Nagaraj

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine

Bengaluru

Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru

550

83 Cashback

Bhargavi Hari B, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Bhargavi Hari B

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

7 Years • MBBS, MD

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dr. Sudhashree R, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Sudhashree R

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

13 Years • MBBS, MRCEM

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

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