“What is a normal blood count for anemia?”

Normal blood count is Red Blood Cells 4.35 trillion to 5.65 trillion cells/liter; Hemoglobin 13.2 to 16.6 grams/deciliters (grams/dL; Hematocrit 38.3% to 48.6%. The complete blood count (CBC) is the most common test used to confirm anemia. It is part of the routine tests done. The complete CBC test the hemoglobin and hematocrit. The hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein part in the red blood cell that carries the oxygen. The hematocrit is a measure how much space the red blood cells take up in your blood. Low level of hemoglobin or hematocrit signify anemia. Everything has to do with the type of anemia and how it was acquired. For example, iron deficiency anemia due to blood loss or due to lack of nutrients, can be corrected by stopping the blood loss and eating food that are reach in iron. Diet: beans, dried fruits, eggs, lean red meat, salmon, iron-fortified bread and cereal, peas, tofu, dark green leafy vegetables (Spanish cucumber, broccoli) among others. No, anemia due to hereditary condition, the etiology (cause) of that condition needs to be assessed to find the right treatment. Severe anemia could be very serious. Loosing blood quickly can be fatal. The three main causes are red blood cell loss, lack of red blood production in the bone marrow or red cell destruction by the immune system. A hematologist would be a great choice. They will send the test to the lab. For analysis. But a complete work up is appropriate to find the etiology of the anemia. Thank you.

Highly unusual to be anemic at that age if male. Do you have Thalassemia Minor? Hemoglobin should be at least 13 5 gm%

Anemia is defined as a hemoglobin level below 13. The doctors usually don't worry about it until is is below 10. If you are showing symptoms between 10 & 13, they would also be concerned. Symptoms would be paleness, tiredness, bruising easily and/or seeing blood when you go to the bathroom. They will figure out what type of anemia you have and treat accordingly.
Good luck.

RB Thomas, MD