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What could be the cause of low hemoglobin levels for my son?
My son is 12 years old and a recent blood test indicated that his hemoglobin levels are lower than the normal range. What could be reason for this?
2 Answers
A low hemoglobin indicates anemia. A recent viral infection is the most common cause for mild anemia in children. No treatment is needed, and the hemoglobin returns to normal in 2-4 weeks. Iron deficiency is the second most common and can be confirmed with blood tests. If confirmed, then treatment with oral iron is needed.
He needs more evaluation, serum iron, TIBC, hemoglobin electrophoresis, etc., to find the cause so he can be treated.