Final answer:
If hemoglobin (Hgb) is low, it indicates potential anemia, leading to insufficient oxygen in the body's tissues, and requires medical evaluation to identify the cause. Treatments can vary from dietary changes to blood transfusions. Monitoring of oxygen levels is commonly done using a pulse oximeter, with normal readings ranging from 95-100 percent.
Step-by-step explanation:
If hemoglobin (Hgb) is low, it indicates that there is less oxygen being circulated in the bloodstream. This condition, known as anemia, can lead to the body's tissues not receiving enough oxygen. Addressing low hemoglobin levels usually involves identifying the underlying cause. Causes of anemia may include nutritional deficiencies such as iron, folate, or vitamin B12, loss of blood, destruction of red blood cells, or a lack of red blood cell production. Various diseases such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia also affect hemoglobin's oxygen-carrying capacity.
When anemia is suspected, medical evaluation and diagnosis are critical. Treatments may include dietary supplements, medication, or in severe cases, blood transfusions. Monitoring oxygen levels in the blood is often done using a pulse oximeter, which measures the percent saturation or the percentage of hemoglobin occupied by oxygen. Normal readings range from 95-100 percent.