What are the causes of high red blood cell count. How is polycythemia diagnosed. What are the symptoms of elevated hemoglobin levels. What treatment options are available for polycythemia. How does high hemoglobin affect oxygen transport in the body. What are the potential complications of untreated polycythemia. How can lifestyle changes help manage high RBC counts.

The Importance of Hemoglobin in Red Blood Cells

Hemoglobin is a crucial protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) that plays a vital role in oxygen transport throughout the body. It consists of a protein called heme, which binds oxygen molecules in the lungs and releases them to tissues and organs that require oxygen for proper functioning. Understanding hemoglobin levels is essential for diagnosing various blood disorders and assessing overall health.

The hemoglobin test is a standard component of a complete blood count (CBC) and provides valuable information about an individual’s red blood cell production and destruction balance. Both low and high hemoglobin values can indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention.

Normal Hemoglobin Levels

Normal hemoglobin levels vary depending on age and gender. For adults, the typical ranges are:

• Males: 13.8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 138 to 172 grams per liter (g/L)
• Females: 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL or 121 to 151 g/L

For children, the normal ranges are:

• Newborns: 14 to 24 g/dL or 140 to 240 g/L
• Infants: 9.5 to 13 g/dL or 95 to 130 g/L

It’s important to note that these ranges may vary slightly between laboratories, and healthcare providers should interpret results based on individual circumstances.

Understanding High Red Blood Cell Count (Polycythemia)

Polycythemia, also known as erythrocytosis, is a condition characterized by an abnormally high red blood cell count. This increase in RBCs leads to elevated hemoglobin levels, which can have significant implications for an individual’s health. Polycythemia can be classified into two main types: primary polycythemia (also called polycythemia vera) and secondary polycythemia.

Primary polycythemia is a rare blood disorder caused by genetic mutations that result in the overproduction of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Secondary polycythemia, on the other hand, occurs as a response to various underlying conditions or external factors that stimulate increased red blood cell production.

Causes of High Red Blood Cell Count

Several factors can contribute to an elevated red blood cell count:

1. Chronic lung diseases that reduce oxygen levels in the blood
2. Heart conditions that affect blood flow and oxygenation
3. Living at high altitudes where oxygen levels are lower
4. Smoking, which reduces oxygen-carrying capacity
5. Dehydration, causing blood to become more concentrated
6. Certain medications, such as testosterone or anabolic steroids
7. Genetic mutations affecting bone marrow function
8. Rare tumors that produce erythropoietin, a hormone stimulating red blood cell production

Symptoms of High RBC and Hemoglobin Levels

Individuals with polycythemia may experience a range of symptoms due to the increased viscosity of their blood and altered blood flow. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Itching, especially after warm baths or showers
• Reddish or purplish skin coloration, particularly on the face
• Blurred vision or other visual disturbances
• Excessive sweating
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Joint pain

In some cases, individuals with polycythemia may not experience any noticeable symptoms, and the condition may be discovered during routine blood tests.

Diagnostic Approaches for Polycythemia

Diagnosing polycythemia involves a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The following diagnostic approaches are commonly used:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC is the primary test used to assess red blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and hematocrit (the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells). Elevated values in these parameters may indicate polycythemia.

Erythropoietin Level Test

Measuring erythropoietin levels in the blood can help distinguish between primary and secondary polycythemia. Low levels may suggest primary polycythemia, while high levels are often associated with secondary causes.

Genetic Testing

In cases of suspected primary polycythemia, genetic tests may be performed to identify mutations in the JAK2 gene, which are present in the majority of individuals with polycythemia vera.

Bone Marrow Biopsy

A bone marrow biopsy may be recommended to evaluate the production of blood cells and rule out other bone marrow disorders.

Oxygen Saturation Test

This test measures the amount of oxygen in the blood and can help identify cases of secondary polycythemia caused by chronic hypoxia (low oxygen levels).

Treatment Options for High RBC and Hemoglobin

The treatment of polycythemia aims to reduce the risk of complications associated with increased blood viscosity and improve overall quality of life. Treatment options may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

Phlebotomy

Therapeutic phlebotomy, or bloodletting, is a primary treatment for polycythemia. This procedure involves removing a certain amount of blood to reduce the overall red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels. The frequency of phlebotomy sessions depends on individual needs and response to treatment.

Medications

Several medications may be prescribed to manage polycythemia:

• Hydroxyurea: This drug suppresses bone marrow production of red blood cells and is commonly used in primary polycythemia.
• Interferon alpha: This medication can help reduce red blood cell production and may be used in younger patients or those who cannot tolerate hydroxyurea.
• Ruxolitinib: A targeted therapy that inhibits the JAK2 enzyme, which is often overactive in primary polycythemia.
• Aspirin: Low-dose aspirin may be recommended to reduce the risk of blood clots associated with polycythemia.

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can help manage polycythemia and reduce associated risks:

• Staying hydrated to maintain proper blood viscosity
• Avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption
• Engaging in regular physical activity to improve circulation
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Avoiding extreme temperatures and high altitudes

Potential Complications of Untreated Polycythemia

If left untreated, polycythemia can lead to several serious complications:

• Blood clots (thrombosis): Increased blood viscosity raises the risk of clot formation in arteries and veins.
• Stroke: Blood clots in the brain can cause ischemic strokes.
• Heart attacks: Clots in the coronary arteries can lead to myocardial infarction.
• Deep vein thrombosis: Clots in the deep veins of the legs can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs.
• Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly): The spleen may become enlarged due to increased blood cell production and filtration.
• Gout: Elevated uric acid levels associated with polycythemia can lead to painful joint inflammation.
• Peptic ulcers: Increased blood cell production can affect the stomach lining, leading to ulcer formation.

Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment are essential to minimize these risks and maintain overall health.

The Impact of High Hemoglobin on Oxygen Transport

While hemoglobin is crucial for oxygen transport, excessively high levels can paradoxically impair this function. The increased blood viscosity associated with polycythemia can slow blood flow, making it more difficult for oxygen to reach tissues effectively. This can lead to tissue hypoxia despite the abundance of red blood cells.

Furthermore, the increased number of red blood cells can cause the blood to become more acidic, which affects hemoglobin’s ability to bind and release oxygen efficiently. This phenomenon, known as the Bohr effect, can further compromise oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.

Compensatory Mechanisms

The body may attempt to compensate for these effects by:

• Increasing heart rate and cardiac output to improve blood flow
• Dilating blood vessels to reduce resistance
• Stimulating the production of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG) in red blood cells, which helps hemoglobin release oxygen more readily

However, these compensatory mechanisms may not be sufficient to overcome the negative impacts of persistently high hemoglobin levels, underscoring the importance of proper diagnosis and management of polycythemia.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage High RBC Counts

In addition to medical treatments, individuals with polycythemia can implement various lifestyle changes to help manage their condition and improve overall health:

Dietary Modifications

A balanced diet can play a significant role in managing polycythemia:

• Increase iron-rich foods if iron deficiency is present
• Consume foods high in folate and vitamin B12 to support healthy red blood cell production
• Limit salt intake to help control blood pressure
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can affect blood cell production

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular exercise offers numerous benefits for individuals with polycythemia:

• Improves circulation and blood flow
• Helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing cardiovascular risk factors
• Enhances overall cardiovascular health
• Promotes better sleep and stress management

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for individual circumstances.

Stress Management Techniques

Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms of polycythemia. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial:

• Practice mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Engage in yoga or tai chi for relaxation and gentle exercise
• Pursue hobbies or activities that promote relaxation and enjoyment
• Consider professional counseling or support groups to manage emotional aspects of living with a chronic condition

Environmental Considerations

Individuals with polycythemia should be mindful of environmental factors that can affect their condition:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to high altitudes, which can stimulate red blood cell production
• Take precautions in extreme temperatures, as heat can increase blood viscosity
• Stay well-hydrated, especially in hot weather or during physical activity
• Consider using a humidifier in dry environments to prevent dehydration

By implementing these lifestyle changes alongside medical treatments, individuals with polycythemia can better manage their condition and improve their overall quality of life. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor progress and adjust management strategies as needed.

Hemoglobin Information | Mount Sinai

Hgb; Hb; Anemia – Hb; Polycythemia – Hb

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The hemoglobin test measures how much hemoglobin is in your blood.

Hemoglobin is the most important component of red blood cells. It is composed of a protein called heme, which binds oxygen. In the lungs, oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide. Abnormalities of an individual’s hemoglobin value can indicate defects in the normal balance between red blood cell production and destruction. Both low and high values can indicate disease states.

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed.

How to Prepare for the Test

No special preparation is necessary.

How the Test will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or a slight bruise. This soon goes away.

Why the Test is Performed

The hemoglobin test is a common test and is almost always done as part of a complete blood count (CBC). Reasons or conditions for ordering the hemoglobin test include:

• Before and after major surgery
• Blood in your stools, or vomit (if you throw up)
• Chronic medical problems, such as kidney disease or certain types of arthritis
• During pregnancy
• Fatigue, poor health, or unexplained weight loss
• Headaches
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Leukemia or other problems in the bone marrow
• Monitoring during treatment for cancer
• Monitoring medicines that may cause anemia or low blood counts
• Monitoring of anemia and its cause
• Poor nutrition
• Problems concentrating

Normal Results

Normal results for adults vary, but in general are:

• Male: 13. 8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 138 to 172 grams per liter (g/L)
• Female: 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL or 121 to 151 g/L

Normal results for children vary, but in general are:

• Newborn: 14 to 24 g/dL or 140 to 240 g/L
• Infant: 9.5 to 13 g/dL or 95 to 130 g/L

The ranges above are common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your health care provider about the meaning of your specific test results.

What Abnormal Results Mean

LOWER THAN NORMAL HEMOGLOBIN

Low hemoglobin level may be due to:

• Anemia
• Bleeding
• Bone marrow being unable to produce new red blood cells. This may be due to leukemia, other cancers, drug toxicity, radiation therapy, infection, or bone marrow disorders
• Chronic illness
• Chronic kidney disease
• Destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis)
• Leukemia
• Malnutrition
• Too little iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6 in the diet
• Too much water in the body

HIGHER THAN NORMAL HEMOGLOBIN

High hemoglobin level is most often caused by low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia), present over a long period of time. Common reasons include:

• Bone marrow disease that causes abnormal increase in red blood cells (polycythemia vera)
• Congenital heart disease
• Exposure to high altitude
• Failure of the right side of the heart
• Low levels of oxygen in the blood
• Scarring or thickening of the lungs
• Too little water in the body (dehydration)

Risks

There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Multiple punctures to locate veins
• Hematoma (blood buildup under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

Chernecky CC, Berger BJ. Hemoglobin (HB, Hgb). In: Chernecky CC, Berger BJ, eds. Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2013:621-623.

Marcdante KJ, Kliegman RM, Schuh AM. Hematology assessment. In: Marcdante KJ, Kliegman RM, Schuch AM, eds. Nelson Essentials of Pediatrics. 9th ed. Elsevier; 2023:chap 149.

Means RT. Approach to the anemias. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 149.

Last reviewed on: 1/9/2022

Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Test

Test Quick Guide

Red blood cells (RBC) are made in the bone marrow and contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the tissues in the body. These cells are also known as erythrocytes.

Red blood cell count is a blood test that measures the number of erythrocytes circulating in your blood. This test is almost always done as part of a complete blood count (CBC) that also measures other types of blood cells.

Anemia is a condition that results from a decrease in the number of RBCs. Elevated RBC counts are seen in other conditions where there is low oxygen levels, certain drugs, kidney disease, or bone marrow overproduction. If your RBC count results are abnormal, additional tests are usually done to diagnose the cause of the high or low level of red blood cells.

About the Test

Purpose of the test

The purpose of the RBC count is to find out if the number of red blood cells you have is normal or abnormal. An RBC count may be included in routine blood testing during a medical check-up and is always included as part of a complete blood count (CBC) measuring the number of red blood cells, white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets in addition to the amount of hemoglobin present in the red blood cells.

Measuring RBCs can help diagnose anemia, a condition in which the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. There are different types of anemias with distinct causes. A low RBC count is a key indicator of anemia, thus requiring additional tests can help determine its underlying cause.

RBC count may also be used to help diagnose other conditions that affect red blood cells, such as kidney problems, a type of white blood cell cancer, or problems with the bone marrow.

What does the test measure?

RBC count is the number of RBCs contained in a sample of blood, usually expressed as millions of cells per microliter (number of RBCs x106/µL).

In a complete blood count (CBC), RBCs are measured along with white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. These cells are made in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream as they mature. In the blood, these cells are suspended in a fluid called plasma.

In a healthy human weighing between 150 to 180 pounds, the total blood volume is about 1.2 to 1.5 gallons (4.5 to 5.7 liters). Of this total volume plasma makes up almost 55% while red blood cells (RBCs) make up approximately 44%. White blood cells (WBCs) and platelets are  1% or less of the total volume.  RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen. In this way, RBCs carry oxygen to the body’s tissues and carry carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs to be expelled.

When should I get an RBC?

RBC count is usually tested as part of a complete blood count, which is a common lab test that can be used to detect or monitor many different health conditions. Your health care provider may order this test:

• As part of a routine check-up
• If you are having symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, or problems concentrating
• If you are having other symptoms of blood cell changes, such as fever, infection, or weakness
• When you are receiving treatment that can affect your blood cell counts, such as chemotherapy
• To monitor a long-term health problem that may change your blood count results, such as chronic kidney disease

Your health care provider can explain why an RBC count is being ordered for your situation and help explain what the results mean.

Finding an RBC

How can I get an RBC test?

A red blood cell count test is usually ordered by a doctor and requires a blood sample, which is drawn by a health provider, phlebotomist, or a laboratory technician at an office, hospital, laboratory, clinic, or other medical setting.

Can I take the test at home?

CBC tests include an RBC count and are done in a medical setting with limited options available for taking these tests at home. While a blood sample may be collected in a microdevice at home, but  then has to be mailed to a laboratory for evaluation with results available several days later. One at-home CBC device that has recently received FDA approval uses a finger prick to obtain a drop of blood that is placed on a special test strip and immediately inserted into a portable device for analysis.

How much does the test cost?

The cost of a RBC test depends on the type of test you get, where you have the blood sample drawn, the charges by the laboratory where your blood is analyzed, and whether you have insurance coverage.

Taking an RBC

The RBC test requires a blood sample. Most often, blood is drawn from a vein inside of  the arm.

Before the test

No preparation is required before having this test. Some medications can affect red blood cell count, so make sure the doctor who ordered your test knows about all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking. In some cases when other tests are ordered, your healthcare provider may suggest fasting before the blood draw.

During the test

There are several steps involved in the blood draw for a RBC count or CBC test:

1. The puncture site on your arm is cleaned to kill any germs and prevent infection, and allowed to dry.
2. An elastic band is tied around the upper arm to apply pressure so that the veins swell, making them easier to locate. Making a fist also helps to make the veins swell.
3. A needle is inserted into a vein.
4. The blood flows into a vial or tube attached to the needle. Sometimes more than one vial of blood is needed if multiple tests are being done.
5. The pressure is released on the upper arm and the elastic band is removed.
6. The needle is taken out and the spot is covered with a bandage to stop bleeding.

The blood draw procedure usually takes only a few minutes to complete. When the needle is inserted, there may be a brief prick or sting of pain, which can range from mild to moderate.

Some people feel nervous or uncomfortable around needles or at the sight of blood. Be sure to tell the person who is drawing blood if you feel nervous or woozy, and they can try to make you as comfortable as possible. Looking away or talking to someone to distract you can sometimes help.

After the test

Once the blood draw is complete, a piece of gauze will be applied to the puncture area to minimize any additional bleeding. A bandage is then placed over the area. Any pain or throbbing after the needle has been removed usually goes away quickly. You may want to keep the bandage on for a few hours to minimize any bruising, but you can usually go back to your usual activities once the test is over.

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Test Results

Receiving test results

Results can take anywhere from a few hours to a few business days to come back. Results may be sent directly to you and your doctor. The results may also be available on an online health portal.

You can ask the health care provider who ordered your test for more details about how and when you will receive the results.

Interpreting test results

RBC count is written as a number value in cells per microliter (number of RBCs x106/µL). The normal range for red blood cells depends on factors like age and sex  and can vary slightly among different laboratories due to the equipment used in different laboratories. In general, reference ranges for adults typically fall between 4 and 6 million cells per microliter of blood. Males typically have a higher number of RBCs than females.

The number of RBCs can also be affected by elevation in the area where testing is conducted. At higher altitudes, less oxygen is available thus the need for your body to increase the number of RBCs that can deliver the required amount of oxygen.

The expected RBC count in babies, children, and adolescents can vary significantly based on their age. RBC counts are often highest in newborns and decrease through infancy before reaching levels similar to adults during childhood and adolescence. Because multiple factors can affect your RBC count, it’s important to talk to your doctor to understand what your test results mean.

The typical lifespan of an RBC is 120 days, so they have to be replaced constantly. Erythropoietin is a hormone that is made in the kidneys and is released to stimulate the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Health conditions that disrupt the normal creation and function of RBCs can cause abnormal RBC count.

A high RBC count may be due to:

• Dehydration
• Stress
• High altitude
• Smoking
• Low oxygen levels (COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease)
• Polycythemia vera, an abnormal proliferation (increase) of RBCs, which is a disorder of the bone marrowA type of kidney cancer called renal cell carcinoma and other cancers that produce erythropoietin
• Certain drugs (Anabolic steroids, Erythropoietin, Gentamicin, Testosterone, Methyldopa)

A low RBC count may be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Anemias
  • Iron deficiency anemia – lack of iron intake
  • Vitamin deficiency anemia – vitamin B12 or folate
  • Aplastic anemia – bone marrow stops red cell production
  • Bone marrow disease-associated anemia – such as leukemia
  • Hemolytic anemia- shortened RBC life span due to secondary disease
  • Sickle cell anemia and Thalassemia – inherited red disorders
• Malnutrition
• Pregnancy
• Overhydration
• Hemolysis, the physical act of red blood cells breaking apart and releasing hemoglobin
• Chronic kidney failure
• Severe bleeding or hemorrhage
• Failure of normal blood cell production in bone marrow
• Certain autoimmune diseases
• Chronic alcoholism
• Toxic chemical exposure
• Genetic/family history

Some types of medications can also contribute to an increase or decrease in RBC count.

An RBC count test alone often cannot determine the reason why RBC levels are high or low. Other blood cell counts may be considered in interpreting the significance of RBC levels, and further tests are often needed to diagnose a specific cause of an abnormal RBC count. A blood smear is often requested to identify any abnormally sized and/or irregularly shaped RBCs that may be present

Because many different conditions can affect your RBC count, it is important to review your test results with your doctor who can address the most likely explanations for your RBC level. Some questions you may want to ask your doctor about your RBC results include:

• What does my red blood count indicate about my health?
• Were the results from the test abnormal? If so, how should I address the abnormality?
• Are there any diagnoses to be made based on my red blood count results?
• Will any follow-up tests be needed based on my results?
• Given my RBC results, is there anything that you would suggest I do to improve my health?

• CBC Blood Test (Complete Blood Count)
  Learn More
• Iron Test
  Learn More
• Hemoglobin Blood Test
  Learn More
• Hematrocit Blood Test
  Learn More
• Blood Smear
  Learn More

Resources

• MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: RBC count
• MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: CBC
• National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: Blood Tests

Sources

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Erythrocytes

Erythrocytes (red blood cells) are the most numerous blood cells containing hemoglobin. Their main function is to deliver oxygen to tissues and organs.

The determination of the number of red blood cells is an integral part of the general blood test and is not performed separately.

Synonyms Russian

Red blood cell count, red blood cell count, red blood cell count.

Synonyms English

Red blood cell count, RBC count, RCC, red cell count, erythrocyte count, red count.

Units

*10 ¹² /l (10 in st. 12 per litre).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous, capillary blood.

General information about the test

This test counts the number of red blood cells in a certain volume of blood, either in a liter or in a microliter.

Red blood cells, which are formed in the bone marrow, deliver oxygen to organs and tissues, and also help transport carbon dioxide from organs and tissues to the lungs, where it is exhaled. This is due to the fact that they contain the protein hemoglobin, which easily binds with oxygen and carbon dioxide.

A change in the number of erythrocytes is usually associated with changes in the level of hemoglobin. When the number of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin are reduced, the patient has anemia, when it is increased, polycythemia.

The normal lifespan of an erythrocyte is about 120 days. The body tries to maintain approximately the same number of circulating red blood cells. In this case, old red blood cells are destroyed in the spleen, and new ones are formed in the bone marrow.

If the balance between the formation and destruction of red blood cells is disturbed due to the loss of red blood cells, their destruction or reduction in their production, anemia develops. The most common causes of red blood cell loss are acute or chronic bleeding or hemolysis (destruction in the bloodstream). The body compensates for these losses by increasing the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. This process is regulated by the hormone erythropoietin, which is produced in the kidneys.

The production of red blood cells can decrease when the normal functioning of the bone marrow is disrupted. The cause of such a violation may be infiltration of the brain with tumor cells or inhibition of its function under the influence of radiation, chemotherapy, due to a lack of erythropoietin (a substance formed in the kidneys that stimulates the formation of red blood cells) or due to a lack of substances necessary for the formation of hemoglobin (iron, vitamin B ₁₂ , folic acid).

Decreased production of red blood cells leads to a decrease in their circulation in the bloodstream, a lack of hemoglobin and its ability to carry oxygen, and consequently to weakness and fatigue.

In turn, the number of erythrocytes increases with more active work of the bone marrow. This can be caused by a variety of causes, such as excessive levels of erythropoietin, a chronic disorder that increases the number of red blood cells (polycythemia vera), or smoking.

What is research used for?

• The RBC test, along with hemoglobin and hematocrit, is used to detect any type of anemia or polycythemia.
• These indicators are usually included in the so-called clinical (general) blood test. In addition, it includes the determination of various characteristics of erythrocytes (shape, size, volume), which, as a rule, allow us to clarify the variant of anemia.

When is the examination scheduled?

Usually, the study is included in the routine complete blood count, which is done both planned and for various diseases and pathological conditions, before surgical interventions.

It is usually repeated in patients suffering from bleeding or chronic anemia.

What do the results mean?

Reference values ​​

A decrease in red blood cells usually indicates chronic or acute bleeding, leading to anemia. In addition, it can be caused by the destruction of red blood cells inside the body or a lack of iron or vitamin B ₁₂ , which are necessary for the formation of hemoglobin.

Reasons for high red blood cells:

• dehydration (dehydration) due to blood clotting – hemoconcentration;
• polycythemia vera due to excessive production of red blood cells in the bone marrow;
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;
• chronic heart failure;
• thalassemia – a genetic disease that leads to impaired hemoglobin synthesis; at the same time, the level of hemoglobin will be reduced, and the number of red blood cells will be increased;
• hypoxia (oxygen starvation) of tissues of any origin, for example due to smoking.

Causes of a decrease in the number of red blood cells:

• iron-, B ₁₂ – or folic deficiency anemia;
• acute or chronic bleeding;
• chronic kidney disease – in this case, there is a decrease in the synthesis of the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• myxedema – decreased thyroid function;
• oncological diseases of the bone marrow or metastases of other tumors in the bone marrow;
• aplastic anemia;
• systemic connective tissue diseases;
• chronic infections.

What can influence the result?

Factors that increase the number of erythrocytes:

• in persons ascending to high altitudes, an increase in the number of erythrocytes is observed, as their body adapts to a reduced oxygen concentration;
• the level of erythrocytes can be increased in smokers due to oxygen starvation of tissues;
• Prolonged application of a tourniquet during blood sampling can lead to falsely high results.

Factors that reduce the number of red blood cells:

• pregnancy;
• vegetarian diet;
• gentamicin and pentoxifylline.

Also recommended

• Clinical blood test: general analysis, leukocyte formula, ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in case of pathological changes)
• Hematocrit
• Erythrocyte indices
• Reticulocytes
• Erythropoietin

Who orders the examination?

General practitioner, internist, hematologist, nephrologist, surgeon.

The level of red blood cells in the blood is increased – what problems can this indicate

• Health

The diagnostician explained what disorders and diseases this may be associated with, and why, in order to bring the tests back to normal, you need to walk more in the fresh air and drink enough water.

July 5, 2022

Source:

iStockphoto

The results of the analyzes are deciphered by the doctor, he can draw the correct conclusions about possible problems in your body based on all the indicators. But you always want to understand in advance how serious the situation is. Take, for example, erythrocytes. What do their high scores mean? And what do they influence?

– Red blood cells are oxygen-carrying cells, – explained Olga Malinovskaya, doctor of clinical laboratory diagnostics, head of the medical department of the KDL laboratory network. “In perfect condition, they are of medium size, sufficiently iron-rich, with the correct shape of a biconcave disc.

Usually, all erythrocyte parameters of interest to the doctor are indicated in the complete blood count. The most indicative is the number of red blood cells in 1 liter of blood. For example, in anemia, the amount is reduced along with the amount of hemoglobin. Another parameter is the average erythrocyte volume – MCV.

– It decreases with iron deficiency anemia, increases with anemia associated with a lack of vitamin B12 or folic acid, – doctor Malinovskaya explains the changes in the parameters.

Read also

Erythrocytes deliver oxygen, which we inhale to all organs and tissues of the body, and take away carbon dioxide, which we then exhale. Red blood cells live in the body for about four months, then they are destroyed.

— The hematopoietic system maintains a constant number of red blood cells in the bloodstream, — said Olga Malinovskaya. — More often patients encounter with a decrease in the number of red blood cells – anemia, but there are diseases and conditions when the number of red blood cells increases.

Dehydration

This is the most common cause of slightly elevated red blood cells.

– If it’s hot outside, you came to donate blood on an empty stomach and haven’t drank water since the evening, then with a high probability you will get slightly elevated hemoglobin, erythrocyte and hematocrit values, the doctor explained.

See also

Difficult external conditions

Doctors observe an increase in erythrocytes in the blood of residents of high-mountainous regions and regions of the Far North. And this is a normal story, people can have red blood cells and hemoglobin slightly above normal due to the adaptation of body systems to harsh external conditions.

Polycythemia

The condition is due to the fact that the cells of the bone marrow produce an excessive amount of red blood cells. Also, other cells will be increased in the analysis – platelets and leukocytes. Blood becomes thicker , viscous, there is a risk of blood clots that can clog blood vessels and disrupt blood supply.

See also

Increasing the amount of erythropoietin

This substance is synthesized in the kidneys and stimulates the production of red blood cells by bone marrow cells.

– The body increases the production of erythropoietin when it considers that the body lives in conditions of lack of oxygen in order to provide all organs and tissues with more oxygen, – explained diagnostician Olga Malinovskaya.

Frequently elevated red blood cells can be in heavy smokers , people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease , with heart defects and those who live in unfavorable environmental conditions.

Kidney disease

Elevated red blood cells are common in people with kidney disease.