What is hematocrit and why is it important. How is hematocrit measured and what do the results mean. What conditions can affect hematocrit levels and when should you be concerned.

What is Hematocrit and Why is it Important?

Hematocrit (HCT) is a crucial blood test 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 blood-related conditions. Understanding hematocrit is essential for both healthcare providers and patients, as it plays a vital role in assessing oxygen-carrying capacity and potential blood disorders.

Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. By measuring the proportion of these cells in your blood, doctors can evaluate your body’s ability to deliver oxygen to tissues and organs effectively. This information is particularly valuable in diagnosing conditions such as anemia or polycythemia, which can significantly impact your health and quality of life.

The Science Behind Hematocrit

To fully grasp the importance of hematocrit, it’s crucial to understand the composition of blood. Blood consists of four main components:

• Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
• White blood cells (leukocytes)
• Platelets (thrombocytes)
• Plasma (the liquid portion of blood)

Hematocrit specifically focuses on the percentage of red blood cells in relation to the total blood volume. This measurement is obtained by centrifuging a blood sample, which separates the components based on their density. The red blood cells, being the heaviest, settle at the bottom of the tube, allowing for an accurate calculation of their proportion.

How is Hematocrit Measured and What Do the Results Mean?

Hematocrit is typically measured as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. The process involves drawing a small blood sample from a vein in your arm or hand using a needle. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory using specialized equipment.

The results of a hematocrit test are expressed as a percentage, representing the proportion of red blood cells in your total blood volume. Normal hematocrit values can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health status. Generally, the normal ranges are:

• Adult men: 38.3% to 48.6%
• Adult women: 35.5% to 44.9%
• Children: Values vary with age, typically ranging from 30% to 40%

Interpreting hematocrit results requires consideration of individual factors and should always be done in consultation with a healthcare professional. Deviations from the normal range can indicate various health conditions and may require further investigation.

High Hematocrit Levels

An elevated hematocrit level, also known as polycythemia, can be caused by several factors. Some common reasons for high hematocrit include:

• Dehydration
• Living at high altitudes
• Smoking
• Certain heart or lung conditions
• Polycythemia vera (a rare blood disorder)

High hematocrit levels can lead to increased blood viscosity, potentially causing complications such as blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. If your hematocrit is consistently elevated, your healthcare provider may recommend further tests to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Low Hematocrit Levels

A low hematocrit level, often associated with anemia, can be caused by various factors, including:

• Iron deficiency
• Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
• Chronic diseases
• Blood loss
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications

Low hematocrit levels can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Identifying the underlying cause of low hematocrit is crucial for effective treatment and management of the condition.

When Should You Be Concerned About Your Hematocrit Levels?

While slight variations in hematocrit levels are normal, significant deviations from the expected range may warrant further investigation. You should consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin or unusual paleness
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Frequent headaches
• Cold hands and feet

These symptoms may indicate an underlying condition affecting your hematocrit levels. Your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including additional blood tests and physical examinations, to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Factors That Can Affect Hematocrit Levels

Several factors can influence your hematocrit levels, both temporarily and long-term. Understanding these factors can help you and your healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately. Some common factors include:

1. Altitude: Living at high altitudes can increase hematocrit levels as the body produces more red blood cells to compensate for lower oxygen levels.
2. Hydration status: Dehydration can temporarily increase hematocrit levels, while overhydration can decrease them.
3. Pregnancy: Hematocrit levels naturally decrease during pregnancy due to increased blood volume.
4. Age: Hematocrit levels can change with age, typically decreasing in older adults.
5. Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics or chemotherapy drugs, can affect hematocrit levels.
6. Recent blood loss or transfusions: These events can significantly impact hematocrit levels in the short term.
7. Exercise: Intense physical activity can temporarily increase hematocrit levels.

When interpreting hematocrit results, healthcare providers consider these factors to ensure an accurate assessment of your overall health status.

The Relationship Between Hematocrit and Hemoglobin

Hematocrit and hemoglobin are closely related measurements that provide complementary information about your blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. While hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in your blood volume, hemoglobin measures the amount of oxygen-carrying protein within those red blood cells.

Typically, hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are correlated, with hematocrit being roughly three times the hemoglobin value. For example, if your hemoglobin level is 15 g/dL, your hematocrit would be expected to be around 45%. However, this relationship can be affected by various factors, including certain blood disorders or abnormal red blood cell shapes.

Why Are Both Measurements Important?

Both hematocrit and hemoglobin measurements are essential for a comprehensive assessment of your blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity and overall health. Here’s why:

• Hematocrit provides information about the volume of red blood cells in relation to total blood volume.
• Hemoglobin indicates the amount of oxygen-carrying protein available within those red blood cells.
• Together, these measurements help healthcare providers evaluate your body’s ability to transport oxygen effectively.
• Discrepancies between hematocrit and hemoglobin levels can indicate specific blood disorders or conditions that require further investigation.

Diagnostic Uses of Hematocrit Tests

Hematocrit tests are valuable diagnostic tools used in various medical scenarios. Some common applications include:

1. Anemia diagnosis and monitoring: Hematocrit tests help identify and track the progress of anemia, a condition characterized by low red blood cell count or hemoglobin levels.
2. Polycythemia evaluation: Elevated hematocrit levels can indicate polycythemia, a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells.
3. Dehydration assessment: Hematocrit levels can help evaluate a patient’s hydration status, as dehydration can cause a temporary increase in hematocrit.
4. Blood loss estimation: In cases of acute blood loss, hematocrit tests can help healthcare providers estimate the severity of the loss and guide treatment decisions.
5. Monitoring chronic conditions: Patients with chronic diseases such as kidney disease or cancer may undergo regular hematocrit tests to monitor their condition and adjust treatment as needed.
6. Pre-operative screening: Hematocrit tests are often part of pre-surgical evaluations to ensure patients have adequate red blood cell levels for surgery and recovery.

By providing crucial information about red blood cell concentration, hematocrit tests play a vital role in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing various health conditions.

Treatment Options for Abnormal Hematocrit Levels

When hematocrit levels are found to be outside the normal range, treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches to addressing abnormal hematocrit levels:

Treating Low Hematocrit (Anemia)

• Iron supplementation: For iron-deficiency anemia, oral or intravenous iron supplements may be prescribed.
• Vitamin B12 or folate supplementation: If deficiencies in these vitamins are the cause, supplementation can help restore normal hematocrit levels.
• Treating underlying conditions: Addressing chronic diseases or infections that may be causing anemia.
• Blood transfusions: In severe cases or acute blood loss, transfusions may be necessary to quickly increase red blood cell count.
• Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: These medications can stimulate red blood cell production in certain types of anemia.

Treating High Hematocrit (Polycythemia)

• Phlebotomy: This procedure involves removing blood to reduce the overall red blood cell count.
• Hydration: Encouraging increased fluid intake can help dilute the blood and lower hematocrit levels, especially in cases of dehydration-induced polycythemia.
• Medication: Drugs such as hydroxyurea may be prescribed to reduce red blood cell production in cases of polycythemia vera.
• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, avoiding dehydration, and managing underlying health conditions can help normalize hematocrit levels.
• Treating underlying conditions: Addressing heart or lung diseases that may be causing secondary polycythemia.

It’s important to note that treatment plans should be tailored to individual patients based on their specific condition, overall health status, and other factors. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen.

Preventing Abnormal Hematocrit Levels

While some factors affecting hematocrit levels are beyond our control, there are several steps you can take to maintain healthy red blood cell levels and prevent abnormal hematocrit readings:

1. Maintain a balanced diet: Consume foods rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate to support healthy red blood cell production. Good sources include lean meats, leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals.
2. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain normal blood volume and prevents dehydration-induced increases in hematocrit.
3. Exercise regularly: Moderate exercise can help stimulate red blood cell production and improve overall cardiovascular health.
4. Avoid smoking: Smoking can increase hematocrit levels and negatively impact overall health. Quitting or avoiding tobacco use can help maintain normal blood cell levels.
5. Manage chronic conditions: If you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, work closely with your healthcare provider to keep them under control.
6. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with red blood cell production and function. Moderate your alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether.
7. Get regular check-ups: Schedule routine health screenings to catch any potential issues early and monitor your hematocrit levels over time.

By adopting these healthy lifestyle habits and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can help maintain optimal hematocrit levels and support your overall health and well-being.

The Future of Hematocrit Testing and Research

As medical technology and research continue to advance, the field of hematology, including hematocrit testing, is evolving. Here are some exciting developments and areas of ongoing research:

Point-of-Care Testing

Advancements in point-of-care testing technologies are making it possible to perform rapid hematocrit measurements outside of traditional laboratory settings. These portable devices allow for quick and accurate results in various healthcare environments, including emergency departments, ambulances, and remote clinics.

Non-Invasive Measurement Techniques

Researchers are exploring non-invasive methods for measuring hematocrit levels, such as optical sensors or wearable devices. These technologies could potentially provide continuous monitoring of hematocrit without the need for frequent blood draws, improving patient comfort and enabling real-time tracking of blood cell levels.

Personalized Medicine Approaches

As our understanding of genetic factors influencing hematocrit levels grows, there is potential for more personalized approaches to diagnosing and treating blood disorders. Genetic testing may help identify individuals at risk for abnormal hematocrit levels and guide targeted preventive strategies or treatments.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms in hematology is showing promise in improving the accuracy of blood cell analysis and interpretation of test results. These technologies could potentially enhance the early detection of blood disorders and provide more precise treatment recommendations.

Novel Therapies for Blood Disorders

Ongoing research into gene therapies, stem cell treatments, and new pharmaceutical approaches may lead to more effective treatments for conditions affecting hematocrit levels, such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia.

As these advancements continue to unfold, the future of hematocrit testing and blood disorder management looks promising, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes and more personalized care strategies.

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.

Hematocrit | Saint Luke’s Health System

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.

causes, norm, treatment, in children, men, women

Rating:
143

Contents:

• Norm

• Conducting an analysis

• Reasons for the decline

• Other factors affecting the indicator

• Therapeutic measures

People often experience various illnesses, the source of which may not be determined. It often happens that the problem lies in the hematocrit value. In general, it is an indicator of the average level of red blood cells in the blood. Measurements are calculated as a percentage or in a liter ratio. Unfortunately, cases when the hematocrit is lowered in the body of a woman, a man and a child, or increased, have become increasingly common.

Norm

Hematocrit, like any other indicator of the body, has its own limits, beyond which it should not go. The hematocrit rate in a blood test depends on two factors: a person’s gender and his age range. Often, in an adult average male, deviations below the norm in the number of red blood cells appear at 54% or less. Hematocrit in women is lowered when its rate is less than 47%. In addition, in children, the average hematocrit is even lower – about 32-33%.

Carrying out analysis

In order to find out if the erythrocyte norm in the blood has deviated, it is necessary to conduct a special study.

An analysis that shows the hematocrit value of a person is as follows:

• It is necessary to take a special glass tube on which there is a printed measuring scale;
• This tube is filled with a liquid – blood;
• Tube centrifugation in progress;
• Evaluation of the number of constituent elements of the blood.

If modern blood diagnostics are available in the laboratory of the clinic, you can use another way to perform a hematocrit analysis – an automatic analysis unit.

Photo of the analysis

Reasons for the decrease

If the result of the blood test shows that the indicator deviates from the norm, and, consequently, the hematocrit is lower, then it is necessary to find out the possible reasons that led to this:

• One of the most common reasons for a decrease in hematocrit is an increase in blood volume.
• In addition, the cause of a decrease in hematocrit may be a decrease or insufficient number of red blood cells due to insufficient production or early death in the body.
• Also, the hematocrit falls when the blood is thinned.
• Often, the indicator of the number of erythrocytes deviates from the norm downwards in case of serious diseases, as well as when the body is influenced by factors that do not depend on the general health of a person.

The list of diseases that cause a decrease in hematocrit include:

• Different types of anemia: the disease leads to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood, which generally affects the general background of the body and is displayed on the hematocrit indicator;

Anemia

• Inflammation: Because inflammation is often a chronic disease, it shows up on every health indicator, including hematocrit;
• Malignant growths: if you have a fresh growth inside or outside, this can also be a signal for a decrease in the indicator;
• Diseases of the vessels and kidneys: changes occur due to an excess of blood plasma.

Other factors affecting the indicator

In addition, as mentioned above, a decrease in hematocrit in the human body can occur not only as an omen to the disease. There are also other factors that affect the hematocrit. Among them, first of all, is malnutrition, which does not bring a sufficient amount of necessary elements to the body. It is problems with the diet, in particular, its inconsistency and excessive consumption of junk food that leads the body to a state that provokes a decrease in hematocrit.

Unhealthy food

In addition, one of the factors influencing the hematocrit number is a passive lifestyle in a recumbent state. Spending an excessive amount of time lying down lowers the hematocrit, but vigorous activity soon returns it to normal.

Also, hematocrit may be lowered after blood tests. After all, substances injected into a vein specifically thin the blood, and the tourniquet squeezes the hand, which leads to a delay in blood circulation. This decrease in hematocrit is short-term and does not entail negative consequences.

Therapeutic measures

Treatment that restores hematocrit to normal should first eliminate its cause, if it is not related to health problems.

In another case, it is necessary to follow some rules:

• Establish a balanced diet: fruits, vegetables, foods high in iron, hematogen;
• As prescribed by the doctor, take a vitamin complex, as well as iron-containing preparations.

This way, your hematocrit will recover sooner.

Video: Fetal hemoglobin and hematocrit:

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General clinical blood test – Euromed Kids

General (clinical) blood test is an analysis that allows you to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative composition of blood.

Which blood components are assessed in CBC?

Our blood consists of plasma and various cells: leukocytes, platelets and erythrocytes.

Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen to the organs and tissues of the body. The analysis evaluates their number, size and shape, average volume, hemoglobin content in the erythrocyte and other indicators.

The most important protein found in red blood cells is hemoglobin. It is he who binds with oxygen in the lungs and carries it to the tissues. For adults and children of different ages, the norms will be different. If the hemoglobin level is low, the cells receive less oxygen than they need. A decrease in the level of hemoglobin indicates anemia, an increase indicates a thickening of the blood. Hemoglobin is often elevated in smokers and professional athletes.

• Leukocytes

They are responsible for the immune defense of the body, protecting it from viruses, bacteria, fungi, toxins and other uninvited guests. An increase in the content of leukocytes in the blood by 2-3 times indicates an inflammatory process. A slight leukocytosis may occur for transient reasons (stress, pregnancy, prolonged exposure to the sun, etc.)

A low level of leukocytes in the blood indicates that the immune system is reduced, and the body may not be able to cope with the disease. Leukocytes can be lowered during a severe infectious or oncological disease, with autoimmune diseases, and also after treatment with potent drugs. In addition, the leukocyte formula is evaluated – the ratio of different types of leukocytes. The composition of the leukocyte formula may indicate the nature of the disease.

• Platelets

They are responsible for blood clotting, protect blood vessels from damage, reduce blood loss in wounds.
Determination of platelet count can be an important indicator in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases, bleeding, miscarriage and many other problems.

In addition, some other important blood parameters are measured with CBC, such as hematocrit – determining the ratio of the total mass of cells and plasma, etc. Combinations of different changes can have completely different meanings. It is also very important that for people of different sex and age, the norms will be different.

When do I need to take the UAC?

UAC is a study that is done to exclude a variety of pathologies, including prevention.