A member asked:

I am a 33 year old woman. dr recently told me my hemoglobin was 16.9. i smoke is this the reason for it?

5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Need for evaluation: Just smoking should not raise the hemoglobin in a woman to near 17. You may wish to repeat it after making sure you drink enough water. However, it may be better to consult a hematologist for an evaluation.

Answered 9/18/2015

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It can be..: Smokers do not get as much Oxygen in their blood as nonsmokers (hypoxia) because of the pollution that interferes with their lungs' functions. To compensate, their body makes more oxygen carriers: hemoglobin & red blood cells. This of course assuming you have no primary bone marrow or liver disorder.

Answered 9/18/2015

2.3k views

Thank

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