Why is Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) High? Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do
Explore why Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) might be high, its causes, symptoms, and when to see a doctor.
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is below the typical adult range (27–33 pg).
is within the typical adult range (27–33 pg).
is above the typical adult range (27–33 pg).
This number is very far from the usual range - check which unit your report uses.
A value this far outside the range is worth discussing with your doctor today.
What a low result usually means
The range printed on your own report comes first - it differs between laboratories. This is not a diagnosis.
See it next to the rest of your report - upload it for a free, private explanationFree. Sign up with your email - no password, we send you a code.Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) is a measure of the average amount of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell. Hemoglobin is the protein in your blood that carries oxygen. If your MCH level is high, it means there is more hemoglobin in each of your red blood cells than usual. Understanding why your MCH might be high can help you and your healthcare provider determine the next steps.
What is MCH and how is it measured?
MCH stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin. It is part of a complete blood count (CBC) test, which is a routine blood test that gives information about the cells in your blood. MCH is calculated by dividing the total amount of hemoglobin by the number of red blood cells. The typical range for MCH in adults is 27 to 33 picograms (pg) per red cell.
Why does a high MCH matter?
A high MCH value might indicate that your red blood cells are carrying more hemoglobin than normal. This can be a sign of macrocytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are larger than normal. Macrocytic anemia can be caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, liver disease, or hypothyroidism. If the underlying condition also causes anemia, the lower total amount of hemoglobin can reduce oxygen delivery and lead to symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
Causes of high MCH
Several factors can lead to high MCH levels:
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency: These vitamins are crucial for red blood cell production. A deficiency can lead to larger red blood cells with more hemoglobin.
- Liver disease: Liver function affects blood production and can result in changes to red blood cell size and hemoglobin content.
- Alcohol use: Excessive alcohol intake can affect the size and hemoglobin content of red blood cells.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can impact the production and quality of red blood cells.
Symptoms of high MCH
Symptoms of high MCH can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
These symptoms usually come from anemia or from the underlying condition, rather than from the MCH value itself.
Frequently asked questions
What does a high MCH level mean for my health?
A high MCH level can indicate that your red blood cells contain more hemoglobin than normal. This condition often points to macrocytic anemia, which can be caused by vitamin deficiencies or other health issues.
Can diet affect my MCH levels?
Yes, a diet lacking in vitamin B12 or folate can lead to higher MCH levels. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients can help maintain healthy red blood cell production.
Is high MCH a serious condition?
High MCH can indicate underlying health issues that may require treatment, such as vitamin deficiencies or liver disease. It's important to discuss your results with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate action.
When to see a doctor
If you receive a lab result showing high MCH levels, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help identify the underlying cause and determine if treatment is necessary. If you experience symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath, seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and management.
Remember, while understanding your lab results is important, decisions about your health should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.