MySQLMan's picture
MySQLMan
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+ 2 Best Hemoglobin/Hematocrit Meters?

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I searched the site for "hemoglobin meter" and "Hematocrit meter," but I didn't get any hits.
With that said...

Has anyone tried any of the various low-cost, personal Hemoglobin meters available on ebay/Amazon?

What has your experience been?
Are they worth a shit?
Which brand(s) are the best?

MySQLMan's picture

So my doc didn't order a CBC this time around, but in the last 3 months, I've donated blood twice, and my meter said exactly the same thing as their (Red Cross) meter did. (15.5 last time).

Turned out to be a good investment.

Righthook's picture

Nice one, helpful post

MySQLMan's picture

Haven't been to the Dr. for blood work yet, but I donated the other day.
The Red Cross test put my hemoglobin at 15.8.
My meter, before leaving home, read 14.5.

SO... not bad.

One thing I've noticed is that the readings can vary if you don't completely cover the sample area with blood. Since the measurement is based u[on how much light passes through the blood, too little can give an inaccurate (low) reading.

Also, the instruction clearly indicate that you should NOT use the first drop of blood. Wipe that away and squeeze out a second, big fat drop.

MySQLMan's picture

Got my meter today and tried it out. Posted the results in Lab Pics: https://www.eroids.com/pics/ecotest-home-hemoglobinhematocrit-meter-test...

MySQLMan's picture

That's great if you live in one of the 44 states that allow non-doctors to order and view labs.
In those other 6 states, you need a doctor's permission to get any blood tests.
And you aren't allowed to view the results. You have to go back to the dr. and ask him to read them to you.
So you pay the Dr, to write a lab order (if he will) and then you pay the lab, and then you pay the dr again to tell you what they said.

I've gone ahead and ordered an EcoTest brand Hemoglobin meter from eBay for $85.
I'll report back with the results and pics.

Sam I Am's picture

Just donate blood. They will check your iron. Your iron reading × 3 = your your hematocrit. This isn't exact but I've found it's very close.

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MySQLMan's picture

Thanks. I only want to donate blood when I need it. I don't want to drag my ass around all tired and weak from low iron if my hematocrit is not an issue.

That's why I asked about the meters.

Sam I Am's picture

Double post.

Owes a Review × 1
MySQLMan's picture

Thanks. You too. LOL