What is MCH in blood test?

The cause of low MCH
MCH levels lower than 27 pg per cell are often associated with anemia. Low MCH can also be a sign of:
- autoimmune disease
- cancer
- Deficiency of some nutrients such as Vitamin B12 or folic acid
- Internal or external bleeding (often as a result of surgery, injury, or menstrual bleeding)
- Iron deficiency
- Kidney Disease
- liver disease
- Thalassemia (a common and inherited blood disorder caused by mutations in hemoglobin genes)
Symptoms of low MCH
People with low MCH levels may experience symptoms including:
- Cold hands and feet
- confusion
- tiredness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- weakness
Cause of high MCH levels
Having MCH levels higher than normal is usually associated with the following diseases:
- Some kidney diseases such as kidney cancer
- Congenital heart defect
- Lung disease, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis
- Polycythemia vera (a rare blood disorder that is usually caused by a genetic mutation. In this disease, the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells)
Symptoms of high MCH
People with high levels of MCH may experience symptoms including:
- blood clots
- Blurred vision or diplopia
- dizziness
- Headache
- itching
If your MCH level is higher or lower than normal, your doctor may order more tests to determine the cause. Treatment options depend on the cause.
Keep in mind that abnormal MCH levels can have many causes and are not necessarily indicative of disease. Abnormal MCH levels can be a side effect of medication and can even be caused by living in a high altitude area.
How to treat an imbalance of MCH levels
How doctors deal with unbalanced MCH levels can vary from case to case. Treatment depends largely on treating the cause of the imbalance.
to the writing of Medical News TodayAdding more vitamin B12 and folic acid to the diet can be a good way to address high MCH levels. It is better to get these items from a balanced and varied diet, but if needed, supplements can also help you maintain their levels.
Low levels of MCH usually occur as a result of iron deficiency, which has caused anemia. Doctors may advise people to add more iron and vitamin pyridoxine (B6) to their diet. Consumption Vitamin C and fiber, along with iron-rich foods, may also help increase MCH levels.
Of course, people with MCH imbalances should always consult a doctor before taking any supplements or making any dietary changes.
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