What does a low hematocrit level indicate in a blood test. How is hematocrit measured and what are the normal ranges. What are the potential causes and symptoms of low hematocrit. How is low hematocrit treated and what lifestyle changes can help improve it.

What is Hematocrit and Why is it Important?

Hematocrit, often abbreviated as HCT or PCV (packed cell volume), is a crucial component of a complete blood count (CBC) that measures the percentage of red blood cells in your total blood volume. This test provides valuable insights into your overall health and can help diagnose various conditions related to blood disorders.

The importance of hematocrit lies in its ability to indicate:

• Oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood
• Potential presence of anemia or polycythemia
• Hydration status
• Overall blood health

How is Hematocrit Measured?

Hematocrit is typically measured as part of a CBC through a simple blood draw. The process involves:

1. Collecting a blood sample from a vein in your arm
2. Spinning the sample in a centrifuge to separate blood components
3. Measuring the proportion of red blood cells to total blood volume

The result is expressed as a percentage, representing the volume of red blood cells in relation to the total blood volume.

Normal Hematocrit Ranges: What’s Considered Healthy?

Hematocrit levels can vary based on several factors, including age, gender, and overall health. Generally, normal hematocrit ranges are:

• Adult men: 38.3% to 48.6%
• Adult women: 35.5% to 44.9%
• Children: Varies by age, typically ranging from 30% to 40%
• Newborns: 42% to 62%

It’s important to note that these ranges can differ slightly depending on the laboratory and testing methods used. Always consult with your healthcare provider to interpret your specific results.

Factors Affecting Hematocrit Levels

Several factors can influence your hematocrit levels, including:

• Altitude: Living at high altitudes can increase hematocrit levels
• Pregnancy: Can cause a temporary decrease in hematocrit
• Age: Levels may naturally decline with age
• Medications: Certain drugs can affect hematocrit production
• Hydration status: Dehydration can temporarily elevate hematocrit levels

Low Hematocrit: Causes and Implications

A low hematocrit level, also known as anemia, can be caused by various factors and may have significant health implications. Some common causes include:

• Iron deficiency
• Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
• Chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, cancer)
• Blood loss (e.g., heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Bone marrow disorders
• Hemolytic anemia (premature destruction of red blood cells)
• Pregnancy

When hematocrit levels are low, it means there are fewer red blood cells available to carry oxygen throughout the body. This can lead to various symptoms and health issues if left untreated.

Symptoms of Low Hematocrit

People with low hematocrit levels may experience:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin
• Cold hands and feet
• Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty concentrating

The severity of symptoms often correlates with the degree of anemia. Mild cases may be asymptomatic, while severe anemia can significantly impact daily life and require immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Low Hematocrit: Beyond the Numbers

While a low hematocrit level is an important indicator, it’s rarely used in isolation to diagnose a condition. Healthcare providers typically consider:

• Complete blood count results, including hemoglobin levels
• Patient’s medical history and symptoms
• Physical examination findings
• Additional blood tests to determine the underlying cause

In some cases, further testing may be necessary, such as:

• Iron studies to assess iron deficiency
• Vitamin B12 and folate levels
• Reticulocyte count to evaluate bone marrow function
• Hemoglobin electrophoresis to detect abnormal hemoglobin types

The Relationship Between Hematocrit and Hemoglobin

Hematocrit and hemoglobin are closely related but measure different aspects of red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, while hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. Generally, hemoglobin levels are about one-third of the hematocrit value. For example, if your hematocrit is 45%, your hemoglobin level would typically be around 15 g/dL.

Treatment Options for Low Hematocrit

The treatment for low hematocrit depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some common approaches include:

• Iron supplementation for iron deficiency anemia
• Vitamin B12 injections or oral supplements for B12 deficiency
• Folic acid supplements for folate deficiency
• Treating underlying chronic conditions
• Blood transfusions for severe anemia
• Medications to stimulate red blood cell production (e.g., erythropoiesis-stimulating agents)
• Addressing and treating sources of blood loss

In some cases, a combination of treatments may be necessary to effectively manage low hematocrit levels and improve overall health.

Monitoring and Follow-up

After initiating treatment, regular monitoring of hematocrit levels is essential to:

• Assess the effectiveness of the treatment
• Make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan
• Detect any potential complications
• Ensure long-term management of the underlying condition

The frequency of follow-up tests will depend on the severity of the anemia and the individual’s response to treatment.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Healthy Hematocrit Levels

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications can help maintain healthy hematocrit levels:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate
• Include iron-rich foods such as lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals
• Consider vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption
• Stay hydrated to maintain proper blood volume
• Exercise regularly to stimulate red blood cell production
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
• Get adequate sleep to support overall health and blood cell production

These lifestyle changes can complement medical treatments and help prevent future episodes of low hematocrit.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild anemia may not require immediate medical attention, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath during normal activities
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Signs of internal bleeding (e.g., blood in stool or urine)

Early detection and treatment of low hematocrit can prevent complications and improve overall quality of life.

The Impact of Low Hematocrit on Daily Life

Living with low hematocrit levels can significantly affect various aspects of daily life. Some common challenges include:

• Reduced physical endurance and stamina
• Difficulty concentrating at work or school
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Mood changes, including irritability and depression
• Impaired cognitive function
• Reduced quality of life due to chronic fatigue

Understanding these potential impacts can help individuals and their healthcare providers develop comprehensive management strategies that address both the medical and lifestyle aspects of living with low hematocrit.

Coping Strategies for Low Hematocrit

To better manage the challenges associated with low hematocrit, consider:

• Prioritizing rest and pacing daily activities
• Using energy conservation techniques
• Seeking support from family, friends, or support groups
• Exploring stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga
• Working with an occupational therapist to optimize daily routines
• Communicating openly with employers or educators about your condition

By implementing these strategies, individuals with low hematocrit can improve their quality of life and better manage their symptoms while undergoing treatment.

Prevention: Maintaining Healthy Hematocrit Levels

While some causes of low hematocrit are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to maintain healthy levels and reduce your risk of developing anemia:

• Regular health check-ups and blood tests
• Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients
• Addressing any underlying health conditions promptly
• Managing chronic diseases effectively
• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active

By incorporating these preventive measures into your lifestyle, you can support your body’s ability to produce and maintain healthy red blood cells, potentially reducing the risk of developing low hematocrit levels in the future.

Special Considerations for At-Risk Groups

Certain populations may be at higher risk for developing low hematocrit levels and may require additional preventive measures:

• Pregnant women: May need iron supplementation
• Vegetarians and vegans: Should ensure adequate intake of vitamin B12 and iron
• Endurance athletes: May need to monitor iron levels more closely
• Older adults: May require regular screenings and nutritional support
• Individuals with chronic diseases: Should work closely with healthcare providers to manage their condition

If you belong to one of these at-risk groups, consult with your healthcare provider about specific preventive strategies tailored to your needs.

Hematocrit

Does this test have other names?

HCT, packed cell volume, PCV

What is this test?

This test measures how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells.

Normal blood contains white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, and the fluid portion called plasma. The word hematocrit means to separate blood. In this test, your red blood cells are separated from the rest of your blood so they can be measured.

Your hematocrit (HCT) shows whether you have a normal amount of red blood cells, too many, or too few. To measure your HCT, your blood sample is spun at a high speed to separate the red blood cells.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if it is part of routine blood testing. You may also need your HCT checked before having surgery or if your healthcare provider suspects you have a red blood cell disorder. Too many red blood cells is called polycythemia. Too few red blood cells is called anemia.

Polycythemia may cause:

• Heart attack

• Stroke

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Itching

• Dizziness

Anemia can be caused by blood loss, your body making fewer red blood cells, or increased destruction of red blood cells. Symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Cold, pale skin

• Chest pain

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your healthcare provider may also order a complete blood count (CBC), which is a blood test that counts all the different types of cells in your blood.

Your healthcare provider may also order a test that measures your hemoglobin to find out how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying.

What do my test results mean?

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.

Results are given as a percentage. Normal HCT values are different for men, women, and children. Normal values are:

If your HCT is high, it may mean your body is making too many red blood cells. Your HCT may also be high if your plasma or blood volume is too low. This can happen when you are dehydrated or in shock.

If your HCT is low, it means you may have:

How is this test done?

The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. 

Does this test pose any risks?

Having a blood test with a needle carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore. 

What might affect my test results?

Living at a high altitude may cause your HCT to be higher than normal. Being pregnant or being older than age 60 can cause your HCT to be lower than normal.

Certain medicines can also affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You don’t need to prepare for this test. Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don’t need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.

Online Medical Reviewer:
Chad Haldeman-Englert MD

Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer:
Tara Novick BSN MSN

Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2022

© 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

How to Read and Understand the CBC Blood Test Panel?

Table of Contents

• What is a CBC Blood Test Panel or Complete Blood Count?
  • RBC or red blood cell count.
  • Hematocrit.
  • Hemoglobin.
  • White blood cell count.
  • Platelet count.
  • Differential count of blood cells.

Have you ever wondered what the numbers and complicated words on your blood tests mean? In this video, we will discuss the complete blood count, a test that provides information about the types and amounts of different blood cells in the blood. We will talk about the role of red blood cells, white blood cells, and other types of blood cells and how changes in their levels can affect the body.

What is a CBC Blood Test Panel or Complete Blood Count?

It is a panel to test for the functional status of your bone marrow to generate different types of normal blood cells. These include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. They all have essential jobs to do in the body to keep us alive and healthy.

Abnormally high or low counts may indicate the presence of different disorders, including some serious ones, such as anemia, abnormalities in the immune system and the clotting mechanisms, and even leukemia. It is done before any surgical operations and during chemotherapy for cancer treatment.

RBC or red blood cell count.

The normal range is 4.14 to 5.8 million per microliter. Red blood cells carry and transport oxygen to all the cells in your body to make energy. A low count can indicate anemia with a symptom of chronic fatigue.

Hematocrit.

Hematocrit can also be used to indicate the amount of red blood cells. The normal hematocrit level is 37.5 to 51%. It is the red blood cell fraction of the whole blood.

Hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin binds oxygen in the red blood cell and is another parameter that is used to test for the quality and quantity of red blood cells. Normal hemoglobin levels are 12.6 to 17.7 grams per deciliter.

White blood cell count.

The normal range is 3.8 to 10.8 thousand per microliter. They include the immune cells that make up your immune system to protect you against disease-causing germs. A low count can make you more susceptible to infections. A high count can suggest ongoing infection, allergic reaction, or even leukemia. In this case, further tests will be done to identify the cause.

Platelet count.

The normal range is 140 to 415 million per deciliter. The level changes quickly. Platelets are essential for blood clotting. A low level can result in abnormal bleeding with observable symptoms of abnormal bruises.

Differential count of blood cells.

This test identifies and characterizes the various types of blood cells done under the microscope. A change in the distribution of various cell types or the presence of abnormal-looking cells helps the diagnosis of certain disease states, such as infection, anemia, allergy, and leukemia or blood cancer among others. It may also be used to see if treatment for any of these conditions is working.

A normal white blood cell differential is as follows. Neutrophils, they make up the bulk of the white blood cell population. The normal range is 40 to 60%. They are the first responders to infection or inflammation. Lymphocytes, they are the backbone of your immune system. The normal range is 20 to 40%. Monocytes, they are an important component of your immune system. The normal range is 4 to 8% eosinophils; they are associated with allergy. The normal range is 1 to 4%.

There are many other tests that can screen for health or disease of other parts of your body. They can be done when called for or when deemed useful. Discuss it with your doctor.

To recap, a blood test is an extremely useful and convenient tool to give you a good idea of the general state of your health. It will provide you with early warnings of potential disease and disorders so that they can be treated more effectively at an earlier stage of the sickness. It is important for you to have a comprehensive blood test done to get normal base sign values for future reference. Repeat the test regularly to track the trend of any changes. Discuss the frequency of specific tests with your healthcare provider.

Understanding your blood tests and tracking the changes regularly will help you to maintain your health and to detect or treat diseases early. It is your body, and therefore, your responsibility to take care of it.

Buy a CBC here.

What is hemoglobin – an article on the site Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Health care at the present stage of development of society is becoming a trend, so each person must understand how the body systems function. The work of the organs depends on the balance of the composition of the blood, the components of which are hemoglobin. It will be discussed further.

Role in human blood

Our entire body is pierced by hundreds of kilometers of blood vessels, through which blood moves, supplying organs and tissues with oxygen and useful substances. Changes in the composition of this fluid are fraught with a deterioration in health, a decrease in the quality of life.

Blood contains three types of cells: platelets, leukocytes, and erythrocytes. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells. Its main task is to retain and deliver oxygen molecules to organs and tissues. This protein is also responsible for transporting carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

The protein hemoglobin is contained in the blood of each person, but depending on age, gender, physical condition, the amount may vary. For good health, it is important that the indicators do not deviate greatly from the norm, up or down.

Norm for men, children

When hemoglobin is the norm of tissues and organs, it is qualitatively supplied with oxygen, a person feels strength in himself and easily copes with everyday tasks. Normal hemoglobin in adult men is 130-160 g/l. In adolescents, this figure is slightly lower, while in older people it is higher.

Differences in the rate of iron-containing protein in the blood begin to be traced from adolescence, when boys and girls complete puberty. For children from 1 to 5 years old, an indicator of 110-140 g / l is considered normal, for schoolchildren – 120-150 g / l, and for infants in the first days of life it ranges from 134 to 198 g/l.

Women’s norm

In the female body, the hemoglobin content is normally 120-160 g / l, but this indicator changes at different periods of life. Physiologically determined monthly blood loss causes a moderate decrease to 90 g / l (with heavy periods).

During pregnancy, a woman’s body works for two, so a decrease in this indicator is natural. Hemoglobin in the waiting period for an heir in women can be 110 g / l and this is considered the norm, but its level must be constantly monitored, since a lack of iron-containing protein in the blood can cause a delay in fetal development and provoke premature birth.

Low hemoglobin: causes and symptoms

When hemoglobin is low, this condition is called anemia or anemia. But you need to understand that this is not a disease, but only a signal that changes have occurred in the body that can be caused by various pathologies.

Anemia occurs when:

• deficiency of vitamins and microelements, which is observed with an unbalanced diet;

• malfunctions of the digestive tract;

• violation of hematopoietic function;

• congenital pathologies;

• autoimmune diseases;

• oncology;

• exposure to radiation, industrial poisons;

• chronic blood loss;

• hidden bleeding.

With anemia, tissues and organs do not receive enough oxygen, so a person suffers from increased fatigue, headaches, and sleep disturbances. Sometimes shortness of breath appears, and the skin and mucous membranes become unnaturally pale. Drowsiness and a bad mood become constant companions of a person.

Degrees of anemia when hospitalization is needed

Anemia can develop for various reasons, but it is important to distinguish between its degrees and respond to this alarm bell in time.

When the rate drops to 90-110 g / l, the patient is diagnosed with mild anemia. The content of iron-containing protein in the range of 70-90 g/l indicates an average degree of anemia. At a level of less than 70 g / l per person, there is an acute deficiency. It is important to seek help from a medical institution.

If the hemoglobin in the blood is so low that there is a threat to life (less than 40 g / l), the person is immediately hospitalized.

What is the danger of increased hemoglobin

An excess of iron-containing protein in the body, as well as a downward deviation of its level, should not be ignored, since such an indicator may indicate serious diseases. An increase in hemoglobin is noted with:

• thickening of the blood due to dehydration;

• pulmonary insufficiency;

• polycystic kidney;

• congenital heart defects;

• intestinal obstruction;

• severe burns;

• adaptation to conditions;

• prolonged physical exertion;

• chronic stress;

• taking certain medications;

• a long history of smoking.

In humans, elevated hemoglobin is manifested by icteric color of the skin, mucous membranes, unnatural pallor and thinness. The heart rhythm is disturbed. If measures are not taken to normalize the condition, the liver enlarges, as in hepatitis.

Diagnostics

To find out what kind of hemoglobin and whether a correction of its level in the body is needed, a general blood test and a doctor’s consultation will help.

To get an objective and informative result on the main indicators, blood is usually donated in the morning. Before visiting the laboratory, it is advisable not to eat for 8-12 hours. The result will be ready the next day. Sometimes they conduct an express study, which allows you to get information in a few hours.

The results of the tests should be studied by the attending physician, who, if there are deviations from the norm, will prescribe additional studies to make an accurate diagnosis. It is unacceptable to draw conclusions on your own, and even more so to prescribe medications for yourself, since anemia is only a symptom and it is important to identify the root cause of this condition.

Interpretation of a blood test. What does a clinical blood test show | “Omicron

Each of us at least once in our lives took a general clinical blood test, but almost never thought about what kind of analysis it is, what it shows. In more detail about what the UAC shows, we will tell further.

A complete blood count or CBC is a routine test given to a person who complains to a doctor. And if he talks about feeling unwell, then the specialist will prescribe this particular study. Thanks to him, the latter learns more about the patient’s health, decides what to do next, what additional tests the patient will have to pass.

To whom this analysis is prescribed

UAC shows the level:

• Hemoglobin.
• Erythrocytes.
• Color indicators.
• Reticulocytes.
• Platelets.
• Leukocytes.
• Neutrophils.
• Eosinophils.
• Basophils.
• Lymphocytes.
• Monocytes.
• ESR or erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

In addition, the patient also gives an extended clinical blood test, and the specialist indicates the indicators that will have to be taken.

How to properly prepare for this examination

Material or blood for analysis from a patient is taken from a finger, vein. Pass the analysis strictly on an empty stomach. If it is taken in the daytime, then the patient must eat 4-5 hours before the procedure for taking the material, but this requirement is not strictly observed.

Also, the day before the examination, the patient will have to refuse:

• Fatty food.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• X-ray, physiotherapy, exposure to the open sun.

Remember: if the patient is taking any medications, then it is worth informing the specialist about this, as some drugs affect the composition of the blood.

Women with menstrual bleeding should not be tested. With serious indications, she can donate blood, but it is worth notifying the doctor in advance about menstrual bleeding.

How the result is deciphered

When deciphering a blood test, a specialist (quite often it becomes a therapist) pays attention to:

1. Hemoglobin or a protein that is part of an erythrocyte. It binds to oxygen, carbon dioxide, delivers oxygen from the lungs to tissues, throughout the body, and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Hemoglobin contains iron, which makes red blood cells red. They color the blood red. It is very important to monitor how much hemoglobin is in the blood. If it is small, then this indicates that the tissues do not receive oxygen, which is responsible for the vital activity of all cells.

The amount of hemoglobin in young children does not depend on gender, but only a recently born child has more of it, even than an adult. During the first 2-3 days, the indicator decreases. It is worth paying attention to this when passing the analysis.

Remember: a low level of hemoglobin indicates anemia, overhydration of the body. A high reading indicates dehydration. Moreover, it is physiological, pathological.

Also, a high level of hemoglobin indicates erythremia or impaired hematopoiesis.

1. Erythrocytes or red blood cells. Most of them are in the blood. They color the blood red. Red blood cells contain a lot of hemoglobin, which is involved in oxygen metabolism.

Remember: a sharp decrease in the level of red blood cells causes anemia, bleeding, pregnancy, overhydration.

A sharp increase in their level indicates dehydration, erythremia, tumor, kidney cyst, dropsy of the renal pelvis.

1. Color index. It is calculated according to the formula. Take into account the level of hemoglobin, the number of red blood cells. Normally, this indicator should be 0.85-1.05. A deviation from the norm indicates anemia. Moreover, if this figure is much lower than normal, then this indicates iron deficiency anemia. If this indicator is much higher than the norm, then this indicates a different anemia.
2. Reticulocytes. These are young, immature forms of erythrocytes. These elements are always present in the blood. Normally 2-10 reticulocytes per 1000 erythrocytes. If they are more than normal, then this indicates a lack of red blood cells in the blood. If they are less than the norm, then this indicates anemia, radiation sickness, cancer.
3. Platelets. These are the cells responsible for hemostasis or blood clotting. They are also responsible for the immune response of the body that occurs during the penetration of an infection into it. Normally, they should be 180-320 * 10 (9) per liter. A sharp decrease in their number indicates severe inflammation, an autoimmune disease. Their number increases with serious blood loss, cancer, spleen atrophy.
4. Leukocytes or white blood cells, which protect the body, are responsible for immunity. Normally there should be 4-9*10(9) per litre. Their number increases with infection, inflammation, allergies. A sharp increase in their number indicates recent bleeding, stress, tumors, and other pathologies. A sharp decrease in their number indicates a depressed state of the immune system, a viral infection, severe toxicosis, sepsis, an ailment localized in the hematopoietic organ, radiation sickness, an autoimmune disease.

In addition, in human blood there are:

• Neutrophils.
• Eosinophils.
• Basophils.
• Lymphocytes.
• Monocytes.

The ratio of different types of leukocytes is called the leukocyte formula.

1. Neutrophils or cells responsible for a non-specific immune response. They bind the infectious agent that has entered the body. When inflammation occurs in the body, these cells move in its direction, their number increases dramatically. Produces their bone marrow. Moreover, at first a myelocyte is formed, then it turns into a metamyelocyte, and at the end it becomes a stab neutrophil. Interestingly, the mature neutrophil is segmented. Normally, there are no myelocytes, metamyelocytes in the blood, and segmented neutrophils are 47-72%, stab – 1-6%. With an immune response, there are more stab cells. In medicine, this is called a stab shift. Thus, a sharp increase in the number of neutrophils indicates infection, inflammation, stress, intoxication, cancer.
2. Eosinophils that destroy immune complexes that arise when exposed to an allergen. Normally they are 1-5%. A sharp increase in their number indicates an allergy, a parasitic infection.
3. Basophils. Normally they are 0-1%.
4. Lymphocytes. These are the main cells that make up the immune system. They are responsible for specific immunity, i.e. clearly recognize the penetrated foreign agent, get rid of it. These cells help the body fight viruses. Normally there are 19-37%. There are many more in young children. Moreover, in children from 1 month to 2 years old, lymphocytes are the main type of leukocytes. Most of them are in the body. By 4-5 years, the number of leukocytes is equal to the number of neutrophils, i.e. the older the child, the less of these cells, but in children of 15 years of age, there are more leukocytes than in adults. A sharp increase in the number of leukocytes indicates a viral infection, toxoplasmosis, tuberculosis, syphilis. A sharp decrease in their number indicates the suppression of the state of the immune system.
5. Monocytes. They are in the blood for 30 hours. After that, they disappear, pass into tissues, macrophages. Such cells destroy bacteria, dead tissues, cleanse the site of inflammation. Normally, they should be 3-11%. A sharp increase in the number of monocytes indicates a sluggish, long-term illness, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, syphilis. It is also a specific sign of mononucleosis.
6. ESR or erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is measured in mm/h.

In children, pregnant women, the elderly, this indicator will be different.

Remember: as the sedimentation rate increases, the erythrocytes stick together.

The bonding process depends on many factors. This is usually associated with inflammation. And the stronger the inflammatory process, the faster the settling rate.

Also, an increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate indicates:

• Diseases localized in the liver, biliary tract.
• Tissue death.
• Heart attack, stroke, tuberculosis, malignant tumor.
• Diseases of the blood.