Definition - What does Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin mean?
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is the average number of hemoglobin, an oxygen-rich protein that binds with red blood cells to autonomously regulate homeostatic functions and processes of all organs and tissues. When measuring MCH levels, a complete blood count (CBC) test notes any baseline deviations where high or low fluctuations might indicate a potential blood disorder.
SureHire explains Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
MCH imbalances can be attributed to epidemiological disturbances such as macrocytic anemia, microcytic anemia, cancer, celiac disease, and liver disease. Red blood cells that are abnormally small can prevent sufficient hemoglobin absorption, reducing the flux of oxygen in the blood. Poor nutrition is another culprit for the depletion of hemoglobin in the blood, primarily due to iron deficiencies.
Individuals with low MCH levels can experience symptoms of chronic fatigue, generalized weakness, and dizziness. Conversely, a high MCH count can include identical and/or discrete symptoms such as exhaustion, paleness, and cognitive disruptions (i.e. memory lapse, impaired judgement). In some cases, MCH levels can be corrected by adopting a healthy diet coupled with vitamin and mineral supplements to replenish the body with iron.
A consultation with a doctor is recommended in order to receive a proper diagnosis and to establish the proper course of treatment, for instance, blood transfusions containing iron. Patients with blood disorders can face difficult circumstances in the workplace where perceived biases underlie discrimination liabilities for employers. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) represents people suffering from blood disorders that hinder their capacity to meet job standards without the use of reasonable accommodations in some scenarios.
