For Your Doctor Blood is composed of cells that move around in a watery substance called plasma. The three basic types of cells in blood are red cells, white cells and platelets. When you have anemia, less oxygen reaches your muscles and organs like your heart. Not having enough red blood cells to carry oxygen places extra demands on your body. White cells fight infection and harmful substances that invade the body.
Platelets help stop bleeding by plugging leaks in blood vessels.
It takes all three working together properly to perform vital bodily tasks. It is important for you to know your Hb count. If your Hb count is lower than the normal range and you always feel tired, ask your doctor about treatment to raise your Hb count. If your hemoglobin is outside the normal range, contact your health care provider. Hb is in the red cells in your bloodstream.