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What is the Meaning of High Globulin in a Blood Test?

Blood Test

What is the Meaning of High Globulin in a Blood Test?

Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Geetanjali Gupta

Written By Muskan Taneja
on Jan 15, 2025

Last Edit Made By Muskan Taneja
on Jan 30, 2025

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What is the Meaning of High Globulin in a Blood Test?
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Do you frequently feel nauseous? This is a common sign of high globulin. High globulin indicates the presence of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, or immune deficiency disorder. Before learning more about high globulin, it is important to learn about globulin.

This comprehensive blog will guide you through high globulin levels, meaning its symptoms, causes, and treatment. 

What is Globulin? 

There are two main types of protein in the blood: Globulin and Albumin. These proteins prevent infections and disease and manage hormones in the body. The Albumin/Globulin ratio (A/G ratio) is usually between 1.0 and 2.2, which means there is slightly more albumin than globulin in the blood. 

Globulin is a group of proteins produced by the liver and immune system. They are important in forming blood clots, transporting nutrients, and maintaining overall health. The liver function test can check for the high globulin level in LFT, measure the A/G ratio, and monitor liver function. If you experience chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting, take the LFT test from Redcliffe Labs and prevent further complications. 

Symptoms of high globulin levels

Types of Globulin 

Hundreds of globulin proteins exist, including immunoglobulin, enzymes, inflammatory markers, and carrier proteins. Therefore, the term globulin is an ‘umbrella term’ that comprises various proteins, each with its respective functions. 

There are three main types of globulin:

  • Alpha 
  • Beta 
  • Gamma
  • Alpha Globulin

Alpha globulin has two fractions;, alpha 1 and alpha 2, where the latter are acute phase reactants (acute and chronic inflammation) and the former are proteins that transport oxygen and copper throughout the body. A high globulin level in alpha indicates acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, and autoimmune conditions. 

  • Beta Globulin

Beta globulin includes transferrin, responsible for transporting oxygen, beta lipoprotein, and cholesterol in the blood. High beta globulin levels mean a certain health issue with the liver or kidney. The high globulin meaning can also indicate iron deficiency anemia. In response to this, your liver may increase the production of transferrin levels. 

  • Gamma Globulin

Gamma globulin is composed of immunoglobulins, antibodies produced by the WBCs. It helps your body to respond to potential pathogens and C-reactive protein (CRP). Gamma globulin is important for the immune system, as it often occurs during an imbalance. Gamma globulin high meaning is you should pay attention to your liver health, blood health, autoimmune health, and infections like HIV and Lyme disease

Normal Range of Types of Globulin 

Type of Globulin Normal Range 
Alpha 1 globulin 0.1-0.3 g/dL
Alpha 2 globulin 0.5-1.0 g/dL
Beta globulin 0.7- 1.2 g/dL
Gamma globulin 0.7- 1.6 g/dL
IgM component75 to 300 mg/dL 
IgG component 650 to 1,850 mg/dL
IgA component 90 to 350 mg/dL

* A globulin blood test can check for globulin levels in your blood and diagnose underlying health issues. This helps prevent serious health complications and manage globulin levels.*

What's the Globulin Normal Range? 

The normal range of globulin is important for performing vital bodily functions, like transporting hormones and vitamins. It is also important for holistic well-being and diagnosing conditions like infections and autoimmune diseases. A high range means hyperglobulinemia, while a low range means hypoglobulinemia. The normal range of globulin in a female and a male is the same: 19-35 grams per liter (g/L). The level may vary depending on the laboratory.  Causes of Abnormal Globulin Range 

High Globulin Level Low Globulin Level 
Chronic inflammatory disease Malnutrition 
Hyper-immunization Kidney disease 
Acute infection Acute dehydration 
Bone marrow and blood cancersCongenital immune deficiency

What is the Meaning of High Globulin? 

A globulin blood test result of over 3.5 g/dL is regarded as high. A high globulin level indicates an existing infection, inflammatory disease, immune disorder, or certain cancer. Health experts also say that a high serum globulin level means liver injury in the blood. 

15 Side Effects of High Globulin 

The body may experience various side effects of high globulin, indicating a sign of potential health issues. You must look out for those signs and seek medical help to prevent them from becoming serious health complications. Here are common symptoms of high globulin levels. 

  • Jaundice 
  • Tuberculosis 
  • Frequent itching on the skin
  • Edema is a condition where fluid buildup in your stomach, legs, or ankles. 
  • Chronic fatigue 
  • Dark color urine 
  • Light-colored stool
  • Unexpected weight loss 
  • Pain in bone, joints, or abdomen
  • Difficulty in breathing because of anemia 
  • Fever due to infection 
  • Unexplained bleeding because of lymphoproliferative disorder 
  • Loss of appetite, a situation where you have a reduced appetite 
  • Feeling nauseous, i.e., feeling sick to your stomach
  • Sudden urge to vomit 

8 Causes of High Globulin 

A high globulin level indicates the presence of infection, autoimmune disease, or inflammatory disease, which can hinder kidney and liver function. The high globulin level also shows that the body lacks the ability to transport nutrients and fight infections. 

The following are the causes of high globulin. 

  1. Infection—Acute infections, such as tuberculosis, can cause high globulin levels. 
  2. Cancer—Certain cancers, such as multiple myeloma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and malignant lymphoma, may also contribute to high globulin levels in the blood. 
  3. Autoimmune Disease- A high globulin means a presence of autoimmune liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. 
  4. Inflammatory Disease—Type 1 diabetes, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriasis, and Lupus are some autoimmune diseases that cause a high globulin level in the blood. 
  5. Immunodeficiency Disorder is a major side effect of high globulin, indicating an immune system problem. Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), hyper-immunoglobulin M (IgM) syndrome, and primary immunodeficiency (PID) are common immunodeficiency disorders. 
  6. Stress—Health experts often link high globulin and stress. Studies indicate that stress can increase serum globulin levels in the blood. 
  7. Dehydration- Dehydration is another cause of high globulin levels. So, stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily. 
  8. Pregnancy—High globulin levels during pregnancy are common fluctuations, which return to normal after childbirth. Usually, there is nothing to be concerned about; however, consult your healthcare professional for a better understanding. 

Causes of high globulin levels

How to Lower High Globulin Levels? 

If your globulin test reports indicate a high level, your healthcare professional may recommend ways to lower it. High globulin levels treatment depends on the cause,

  • In the case of autoimmune disease, a doctor may recommend immunosuppressive therapies and anti-rheumatic drugs
  • In the case of cancer, they may suggest chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplant. 
  • In case of acute and chronic infection, they may suggest antibiotics. 

Medications and treatments are fine. However, following a healthy diet may significantly support healthy liver, kidney, and immune system function and prevent high globulin levels. 

  • Follow a Mediterranean (anti-inflammatory) diet, which includes foods rich in protein, fiber, nutrients, and healthy fats. 
  • Switching to a plant-based diet from a non-veg diet. It may help support kidney and liver health.
  •  Exercising daily for at least 30 to 40 minutes benefits overall health and functioning. 
  • Snacking foods like Brazil nuts contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory herbs, and sulfur compounds. Kale, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and turmeric are some foods that support liver health. If your LFT has a high globulin level, include these foods in your diet. 

What Does a Globulin Low Mean? 

A low globulin level means difficulty absorbing proteins from food and a high risk of infections and other diseases. A healthcare provider may recommend replacement therapy, stem cell transplant, and antibiotics. 

Causes of Low Globulin Levels 

  • Celiac disease
  • Acute hemolytic anemia 
  • Autoimmune disease, such as Lupus 
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease 
  • Malnutrition 

Who Should Take the Globulin Test? 

The globulin levels can be normal, high, or low in the blood. A high globulin means your body has certain serious health issues. Therefore, to prevent such complications, you must notice early signs and take the globulin blood test. Doctors recommend the globulin test as a part of routine checkups. However, some people should take the globulin test despite the symptoms or risk factors.

  • People with signs of kidney or liver disease 
  • People who experience chronic fatigue 
  • People with unexplained reasons for weight loss. 
  • People with jaundice,i.e. 
  • People who are malnourished
  • People with edema (swelling) in the lower limbs or abdomen 
  • People who see dark-colored urine than usual
  • People who experience frequent nausea and vomiting 

Steps to Book A Test from Redcliffe Labs 

  • Visit the website, www.redcliffelabs.com 
  • Search for the specific test you need. 
  • Click on ‘Book Now.’
  • Fill out the required details (address and time). 
  • A phlebotomist will visit your home for a sample collection. 
  • Receive the test reports within no time. 
  • You will receive the reports through a message

The Bottom Line 

A high globulin meaning is the presence of infection, disorder, or disease, which affects the ability of your liver and kidney function. A blood test for globulin can diagnose underlying healthh conditions and help prevent major complications. Consult a healthcare professional for proper management, evaluation, and interpretation of high globulin levels. 

FAQs

Ques1 How to prevent high globulin levels? 

Ans1 The right way to prevent high globulin levels is by making lifestyle modifications and addressing the underlying cause. These include staying hydrated, limiting high-protein foods, maintaining stress, and regular exercise. 

Ques2 How to lower globulin levels? 

Ans2 To lower a high globulin level or hyperglobulinemia, practice lifestyle modifications like eating a healthy and balanced diet, reducing stress, staying hydrated, and limiting your intake of protein supplements. 

Ques3 How to increase globulin levels? 

Ans3 You can increase the globulin levels by eating a diet rich in protein and micronutrients. Besides, timely intervention of the cause and limiting the consumption of harmful beverages (alcohol) can help increase globulin levels. 

Ques4 Is a 3.7 globulin level high? 

Ans4 Yes, a 3.7 globulin level is considered high. This can be a sign of long-term inflammatory disease, autoimmune disease, acute infection, and immunodeficiency disorders. 

Ques5 What causes low globulin levels? 

Ans5 Liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, blood loss, nephrotic syndrome, congenital immune deficiency, and certain medications can cause low globulin levels. 

Ques6 What is a concerning level of globulin? 

Ans6 A globulin level above 3.5 grams per deciliter is considered high. It indicates signs of inflammation, autoimmune disease, and cancer. 

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1 Comments

  • SV Narayanarao

    Apr 9, 2025 at 8:14 AM.

    Suggest patient what nessessary actions to take when he is 3.7globulins level.

    • Myhealth Team

      Apr 9, 2025 at 9:31 AM.

      Globulin level of 3.7 g/dL is slightly high and may indicate inflammation, infection, or liver-related issues. It’s best to consult a doctor with your full test report for proper diagnosis and next steps.

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