Why low hct. Understanding Hematocrit: A Comprehensive Guide to Blood Cell Volume Testing
What is hematocrit and why is it important. How is the hematocrit test performed. What do normal and abnormal hematocrit results indicate. How can hematocrit levels impact overall health.
What is Hematocrit and Its Significance in Blood Testing?
Hematocrit (HCT) is a crucial blood test that measures the proportion of red blood cells in a person’s total blood volume. This measurement provides valuable insights into an individual’s overall health and can indicate various medical conditions. The test is typically conducted as part of a complete blood count (CBC) and offers essential information about the body’s oxygen-carrying capacity.
The significance of hematocrit lies in its ability to reveal potential health issues related to red blood cell production, destruction, or loss. Abnormal hematocrit levels can be indicative of conditions such as anemia, dehydration, or blood disorders, making it an invaluable diagnostic tool for healthcare providers.
How is Hematocrit Measured?
Hematocrit is measured through a simple blood test. A healthcare professional draws a small blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. This process is typically quick and relatively painless, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort during the blood draw.
The Role of Blood in the Human Body
Blood plays a multifaceted role in maintaining overall health and bodily functions. Its primary functions include:
- Transporting oxygen and nutrients to body tissues
- Removing waste products and carbon dioxide
- Distributing hormones from endocrine organs to target tissues
- Regulating body temperature
- Maintaining normal pH levels in body tissues
- Providing protection through clot formation and infection prevention
Given these crucial roles, understanding blood composition through tests like hematocrit is essential for assessing overall health and identifying potential issues.
Normal Hematocrit Ranges: What Do They Mean?
Normal hematocrit levels vary depending on age and gender. Understanding these ranges is crucial for interpreting test results accurately. The typical ranges are:
- Adult males: 40.7% to 50.3%
- Adult females: 36.1% to 44.3%
- Newborns: 45% to 61%
- Infants: 32% to 42%
It’s important to note that these ranges may vary slightly between different laboratories. Healthcare providers consider these ranges along with other factors when interpreting results.
Are Hematocrit Levels Affected by Age and Gender?
Yes, hematocrit levels are influenced by both age and gender. Generally, adult males tend to have higher hematocrit levels than adult females due to the effects of testosterone on red blood cell production. Newborns typically have higher levels immediately after birth, which gradually decrease to normal infant levels within the first few months of life.
Interpreting Low Hematocrit Results: Causes and Implications
Low hematocrit levels can be indicative of various health issues. Some common causes include:
- Anemia
- Bleeding or blood loss
- Bone marrow disorders
- Chronic illnesses
- Chronic kidney disease
- Hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells)
- Leukemia
- Malnutrition
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6)
- Overhydration
Low hematocrit levels may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Healthcare providers often recommend further testing to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How Does Anemia Affect Hematocrit Levels?
Anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, directly impacts hematocrit levels. In anemic individuals, the proportion of red blood cells in the total blood volume is reduced, resulting in lower hematocrit readings. This decrease in red blood cells impairs the body’s ability to transport oxygen effectively, leading to various symptoms associated with anemia.
High Hematocrit: Understanding Elevated Blood Cell Volumes
While low hematocrit levels are more commonly discussed, high hematocrit readings can also indicate underlying health issues. Elevated hematocrit levels may be caused by:
- Bone marrow disorders that lead to increased red blood cell production
- Dehydration
- Chronic lung diseases
- Congenital heart diseases
- Polycythemia vera (a blood disorder causing overproduction of red blood cells)
- Living at high altitudes
- Smoking
High hematocrit levels can increase the risk of blood clots and may lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause and may include techniques to reduce blood thickness.
Can Lifestyle Factors Influence Hematocrit Levels?
Yes, several lifestyle factors can impact hematocrit levels. Regular exercise, particularly endurance training, can lead to a slight increase in hematocrit as the body adapts to increased oxygen demands. Conversely, smoking can artificially elevate hematocrit levels due to decreased oxygen availability. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can cause temporary elevations in hematocrit readings.
The Hematocrit Test: Preparation and Procedure
Preparing for a hematocrit test is relatively simple. In most cases, no special preparation is necessary. However, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, as some drugs can affect test results. The procedure itself is straightforward:
- A healthcare professional will clean the area where the blood will be drawn, usually the inside of the elbow or back of the hand.
- An elastic band is tied around the upper arm to increase blood flow in the veins.
- A needle is inserted into a vein, and a small amount of blood is collected in a vial or tube.
- The elastic band is removed, and pressure is applied to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
- A bandage may be placed over the puncture site.
The entire process typically takes less than five minutes, and most people experience only minor discomfort during the blood draw.
Are There Any Risks Associated with the Hematocrit Test?
The hematocrit test is generally considered safe with minimal risks. Some individuals may experience slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site, which usually resolves quickly. In rare cases, complications such as excessive bleeding, infection, or fainting may occur. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications.
Hematocrit in Pregnancy: Monitoring Maternal Health
Monitoring hematocrit levels during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring the health of both mother and baby. Pregnancy naturally causes changes in blood volume and composition, which can affect hematocrit readings. Typically, hematocrit levels decrease slightly during pregnancy due to the increased plasma volume.
Healthcare providers routinely check hematocrit levels as part of prenatal care to detect and prevent anemia, which is common during pregnancy. Maintaining adequate iron levels through diet or supplements is often recommended to support healthy red blood cell production and prevent complications.
How Often Should Hematocrit Be Checked During Pregnancy?
Hematocrit levels are usually checked at least twice during pregnancy: once during the first prenatal visit and again between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. However, more frequent monitoring may be necessary for women with pre-existing anemia or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate schedule based on your individual needs and health status.
Hematocrit and Chronic Diseases: Long-term Health Implications
Chronic diseases can have a significant impact on hematocrit levels, often leading to persistent abnormalities. Some conditions that may affect hematocrit include:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Congestive heart failure
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Certain types of cancer
In these cases, regular monitoring of hematocrit levels is essential for managing the underlying condition and preventing complications. Treatment approaches may vary depending on the specific disease and its effects on blood cell production and overall health.
How Does Chronic Kidney Disease Affect Hematocrit?
Chronic kidney disease often leads to decreased hematocrit levels due to reduced production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. As kidney function declines, the body’s ability to produce adequate amounts of erythropoietin diminishes, resulting in anemia. Management typically involves treating the underlying kidney disease and may include erythropoiesis-stimulating agents to boost red blood cell production.
Hematocrit in Sports Medicine: Performance and Doping Concerns
In the world of sports medicine, hematocrit levels are of particular interest due to their impact on athletic performance and potential use in blood doping detection. Higher hematocrit levels can enhance oxygen-carrying capacity, potentially improving endurance and overall performance in certain sports.
However, this physiological advantage has led to concerns about blood doping practices, where athletes artificially increase their red blood cell count to gain a competitive edge. Sports governing bodies often set upper limits for hematocrit levels to deter such practices and ensure fair competition.
What Are the Health Risks of Blood Doping?
Blood doping, whether through blood transfusions or the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating drugs, carries significant health risks. These include:
- Increased risk of blood clots and stroke
- Cardiovascular complications
- Overloading of the circulatory system
- Immune system suppression
- Potential transmission of blood-borne diseases (in case of transfusions)
The practice is not only unethical but also dangerous, potentially leading to severe health consequences or even death.
Future Developments in Hematocrit Testing and Analysis
As medical technology advances, the field of hematology continues to evolve, bringing new possibilities for hematocrit testing and analysis. Some areas of development include:
- Point-of-care testing devices for rapid hematocrit measurement
- Integration of artificial intelligence for more accurate result interpretation
- Advanced imaging techniques for non-invasive hematocrit assessment
- Improved methods for detecting blood doping in sports
- Personalized medicine approaches based on individual hematocrit profiles
These advancements aim to enhance the accuracy, accessibility, and clinical utility of hematocrit testing, ultimately improving patient care and health outcomes.
How Might Personalized Medicine Utilize Hematocrit Data?
In the realm of personalized medicine, hematocrit data could be used to tailor treatment plans more effectively. By considering an individual’s unique hematocrit profile along with other health markers, healthcare providers may be able to:
- Predict disease risk more accurately
- Optimize medication dosages
- Develop targeted nutritional interventions
- Monitor treatment efficacy more precisely
- Identify early signs of health changes
This personalized approach has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and enhance overall patient care.
Hematocrit Information | Mount Sinai
HCT
Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person’s blood is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of and size of the red blood cells.
Blood transports oxygen and nutrients to body tissues and returns waste and carbon dioxide. Blood distributes nearly everything that is carried from one area in the body to another place within the body. For example, blood transports hormones from endocrine organs to their target organs and tissues. Blood helps maintain body temperature and normal pH levels in body tissues. The protective functions of blood include clot formation and the prevention of infection.
How the Test is Performed
A blood sample is needed.
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
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 hematocrit is almost always done as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
Your health care provider may recommend this test if you have signs of or are at risk for anemia. These include having:
- 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 vary, but in general they are:
- Male: 40.
7% to 50.3%
- Female: 36.1% to 44.3%
For babies, normal results are:
- Newborn: 45% to 61%
- Infant: 32% to 42%
The examples above are common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Low hematocrit 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
High hematocrit may be due to:
- 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. H. Hematocrit blood. In: Chernecky CC, Berger BJ, eds. Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures. 6th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:620-621.
Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM. Blood disorders. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 124.
Means RT. Approach to the anemias. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 149.
Vajpayee N, Graham SS, Bem S. Basic examination of blood and bone marrow. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 31.
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.
What it is, levels, high and low range
Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in a person’s blood. A typical hematocrit range in healthy adults is 37–52%. This varies depending on a person’s sex and age.
Authors of a 2017 study identified the above typical range.
Low red blood cell levels indicate conditions such as anemia. High red blood cell levels could signal polycythemia, increasing a person’s chance of developing a blood clot.
If a person feels tired, dizzy, or short of breath, a doctor may want to test their hematocrit levels to see if those levels fall into a normal range or not.
Read on to learn more about what this measure of red blood cell volume means, symptoms of abnormal levels, and what low and high levels might indicate.
Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the body. For example: if a person has 50 milliliters (ml) of red blood cells in 100 ml of blood, their hematocrit level is 50%.
Red blood cells transport oxygen around the body and give blood its characteristic red color. In addition to oxygen, they also contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules. This allows red blood cells to pick up oxygen from the lungs and deliver it throughout the body.
An adequate amount of red blood cells is essential to keep the body’s processes running smoothly.
Many conditions can affect red blood cell production or its life cycle. This can make it difficult for a medical professional to diagnose these conditions. A doctor will use a hematocrit test to confirm whether a person’s red blood cell count is affecting a health condition.
Doctors usually test hematocrit levels as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
A CBC is composed of a range of tests and may include:
- red blood cell count
- reticulocyte count (young red blood cells)
- an analysis of hemoglobin levels
- an analysis of red blood cells, including size and shape
- white blood cell tests
- platelet tests
A doctor will also consider a person’s sex, race, and age. It is important to note that certain blood-related conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia, affect particular demographic groups at higher rates.
Learn more about sickle cell anemia in African Americans here.
A doctor may request frequent hematocrit tests to monitor the effect of chemotherapy on a person’s bone marrow.
Both high and low hematocrit levels can be detrimental to a person’s health and result from various conditions and lifestyle factors.
What are normal hematocrit levels?
Different institutions will define normal hematocrit levels differently. However, a 2017 cross-population study found the following ranges to be typical.
- Male: 42-52%
- Female: 37-47%
- Children: 30–44%, depending on their age and sex
Newborn babies have high hematocrit levels that gradually decrease as they get older.
If a person has recently received a blood transfusion, it may affect their results. Additionally, pregnant individuals may have lower levels than usual because the body increases its blood volume during pregnancy.
Other factors, such as smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may push levels into a higher range.
Low levels
A hematocrit level below 35% in women and 41% in men is low. A level under this value can signify chronic anemia.
High levels
Hematocrit levels above the typical ranges can have adverse effects. It may indicate serious underlying health conditions.
Accuracy of results
Results from hematocrit tests are typically accurate and provide a clear reading of a person’s red blood cell levels.
However, the percentage of red blood cells in someone’s blood can change depending on various lifestyle factors and even environmental changes. According to research, red blood cell counts tend to increase at high altitudes.
Exercise, particularly strength training, may also affect hematocrit levels. A 2018 study found that females who participated in 16 weeks of strength exercise had lower levels at the end than when they started. However, the study had a small sample size of 26 middle-aged, sedentary Turkish women. This means that these findings aren’t necessarily representative of a wider population.
Dehydration can also raise hematocrit levels, so this test is useful if a doctor suspects severe dehydration is the cause of a person’s symptoms.
When a person has low hematocrit levels, they tend to present with the following symptoms:
- pale complexion
- weakness
- fatigue
- low energy
- trouble breathing
- irregular heartbeat
- cold hands or feet
These symptoms also indicate anemia, a condition where hemoglobin levels are lower than normal. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.
Mild anemia is treatable, and it is particularly common in women. Severe anemia could signal a more serious underlying health condition that requires more extensive treatment.
Doctors associate anemia with several health conditions, including:
Nutrient deficiency
A person may lack B12, folate, or iron in their diet.
Learn more about how nutrient deficiency anemia is diagnosed and treated.
Chronic bleeding
This commonly occurs due to digestive tract ulcers, which are sores caused by the bacteria H.pylori or chronic use of anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and aspirin. Many women also experience excessive blood loss from heavy menstrual bleeding.
Bone marrow disorder
This includes aplastic anemia, which damages stem cells in bone marrow.
Cancer
These cancers spread to bone marrow, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Learn more about bone marrow cancers here.
Kidney failure
Kidney disease can lower the production of red blood cells, reducing hematocrit levels.
Thalassemia
When a person has this condition, their body does not produce enough hemoglobin.
Learn more about thalassemia here.
Sickle cell anemia
This condition changes the shape of red blood cells. These cells die earlier than normal, and they also clump together, which impairs blood flow.
Learn more about sickle cell anemia here.
Autoimmune disease
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may reduce red blood cell count.
Learn more about autoimmune diseases here.
When a person has high hematocrit levels, they tend to present with these symptoms:
- flushed skin
- dizziness
- vision problems
- headaches
- enlarged spleen
These symptoms signal polycythemia, a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells. This means blood is thicker and clots more easily.
Doctors cannot cure polycythemia, so treatment focuses on symptom management. The main goal is to avoid stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot usually occurring in a deep vein in the leg.
In some cases, dehydration causes polycythemia. When a person does not drink enough, their plasma levels drop, increasing the proportion of red blood cells in their blood volume. A person can lower their red blood cell count by rehydrating.
Some conditions that can cause high hematocrit levels include:
Lung or pulmonary disease
When the lungs cannot absorb oxygen effectively, and oxygen levels drop, the body compensates by making more red blood cells. One common pulmonary disease causing this is COPD.
Learn more about COPD here.
Heart disease
If the structure of a person’s heart reduces its ability to pump blood around the body, it can no longer sustain vital organs with oxygen. To try and overcome the oxygen deficit, the body produces more red blood cells.
Learn more about heart disease here.
Kidney cancer
Sometimes kidney cancer cells create more erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone that tells the bone marrow to create more red blood cells.
Learn more about kidney cancer here.
Genetic disease
The JAK2 gene, which controls the number of blood cells made in the bone marrow, can affect certain conditions. When someone has a mutated JAK2 gene, the body could make a protein that signals the bone marrow to create more red blood cells than it needs.
Learn more about genetic disorders here.
A person should speak with a doctor if they are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above that could be a sign of high or low hematocrit levels, including fatigue, weakness, vision problems, and dizziness.
These symptoms can also indicate an underlying condition, so a person must contact a doctor promptly to prevent future complications.
If a person is receiving chemotherapy treatment, a doctor should perform regular hematocrit tests to monitor bone marrow health.
Hematocrit is the percentage of blood cells in a person’s blood volume. A doctor may test an individual’s hematocrit level due to certain symptoms.
A low hematocrit level means there are too few red blood cells in the body. In these cases, a person may experience symptoms that signal anemia. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and low energy.
If a person has too many red blood cells, they have a high hematocrit level. A person may experience dizziness and headaches, which can be a sign of the condition polycythemia.
Demographic and lifestyle factors can influence a person’s hematocrit levels. For example, males tend to have higher levels than females. Pregnant individuals can experience a decrease in hematocrit levels, and strength training may also reduce levels.
There are also several health conditions that can cause hematocrit levels outside the normal range. Excessive bleeding, thalassemia, and kidney disease are causes of low levels. COPD and sickle cell anemia can cause high levels.
Read this article in Spanish.
“Hematocrit below normal – what does it mean in an adult?” — Yandex Q
In this article we consider what to do if the hematocrit is below normal, what does this mean in an adult?
Determination of the hematocrit value is included in the extended complete blood count. The criterion allows you to evaluate the work of the hematopoietic system. The functioning of other organs directly depends on its full functional activity, since it is erythrocytes that deliver oxygen to organs and tissues.
A decrease in hematocrit may occur without the manifestation of pronounced clinical symptoms. A person can attribute increased fatigue to high workload and lack of time for rest. However, a decrease in hematocrit is one of the first symptoms of anemia that requires treatment. The article also addresses the issue of the danger of a long-term decrease in hematocrit.
Contents
1 What does hematocrit show?
2 Hematocrit is below normal – what does it mean?
3 Causes of Decreased Hematocrit in Adults
4 Is low hematocrit dangerous?
5 Methods for increasing hematocrit
What does hematocrit show?
The value reflects the volume of the liquid part of the blood, which in the bloodstream contains formed elements (erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets). The hematocrit value is measured as a percentage. So, if the analysis indicates that the hematocrit is 40%, this means that 40% of red blood cells, platelets, etc. are present in 100 ml of blood.
Low blood hematocrit is observed in patients with a low number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. The indicator also takes into account the size of blood cells. Their decrease is naturally reflected in the results of the analysis.
Measurement of hematocrit is useful in the diagnosis of anemia and hyperproteinemia, as well as in assessing the effectiveness of the selected treatment methods. The test is performed on patients with dehydration to assess the severity of their condition. Included in the list of obligatory determinable indicators for people who are scheduled for blood transfusion, and for pregnant women.
Main article: What is hematocrit, why is it needed and what are its norms?
Hematocrit is below normal – what does it mean?
A low hematocrit in an adult indicates a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood. In this case, the doctor will prescribe additional laboratory tests and instrumental diagnostic methods. Among the laboratory parameters, it is important to determine: the level of iron and ferritin, as well as to evaluate the biochemical parameters of the blood. Of the instrumental methods, it is preferable to conduct an ultrasound examination of the digestive organs, liver and small pelvis. Based on the results of a comprehensive examination and the collected history of the patient, the doctor determines the cause of the low hematocrit.
It should be borne in mind that if a woman gave biomaterial for analysis during menstruation, then the hematocrit is below normal – this is a standard phenomenon. During this period, a woman loses a certain amount of blood, which means that the level of red blood cells is somewhat reduced.
It is important to follow the rules of patient preparation, as well as the collection and transport of biomaterial. During venipuncture, destruction of red blood cells in vitro (hemolysis) can occur. For example, due to strong or prolonged squeezing of the site of taking the biomaterial with a tourniquet or at the wrong temperature for storing the collected blood. The obtained indications cannot be considered reliable, and the patient will definitely need to re-take the biomaterial.
Causes of Decreased Hematocrit in Adults
Only the attending physician after a complete diagnosis can determine the exact cause in each specific case. Consider the main causes of low hematocrit in adults.
Anemia (anemia) describes a group of similar syndromes, united on the basis of a total decrease in the level of hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells. It should be noted that the isolated term “anemia”, without clarifying explanations, does not describe a specific disease. In this case, it is only a separate symptom of a disease.
The decrease in the number of erythrocytes is mainly accompanied by changes in their qualitative composition. Which leads to a deterioration in respiratory activity and the gradual development of oxygen starvation of the tissues of all organs. The main symptoms of anemia are:
- pale skin;
- increased weakness and fatigue;
- desire to eat chalk, earth, raw meat;
- hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin;
- decreased memory and performance;
- bluish or yellowish sclera;
- earthy skin tone;
- persistent drowsiness;
- frequent headaches and dizziness;
- shortness of breath even with little physical activity;
- tachycardia.
The main causes of anemia
There are many known mechanisms for the development of anemia. Consider the main ones:
- Malfunctions in the process of synthesis of red blood cells and hemoglobin due to lack of iron and vitamins B 9 in the human bodyand 12, as well as for pathologies of the red bone marrow.
- Deficiency of red blood cells due to large blood loss, for example, in serious injuries or during surgery. A similar condition occurs in people with chronic bleeding (hemorrhoidal bleeding, intercycle blood loss in women, etc.). The main mechanism is a decrease in the concentration of iron, and not a decrease in the number of red blood cells.
- Mechanism of enhanced destruction of blood cells. The average lifespan of red blood cells is 4 months. With the manifestation of pathologies affecting the hematopoietic system, blood cells begin to degrade at an accelerated rate. The decay process is also influenced by external factors, for example, the use of vinegar in large quantities.
The prognosis of the outcome of iron deficiency anemia is extremely favorable. The condition is stopped by taking iron and vitamins. The outcome of other forms of anemia depends on their severity.
Fluid in the body
The hematocrit is also reduced with an increased fluid content in the body of an adult. This condition is not associated with excessive fluid intake, but with its retention in the body. Causes: kidney pathology, viral or bacterial infection. There is an increase in blood plasma volumes, while the number of red blood cells does not increase. This naturally leads to a decrease in the hematocrit value.
Hyperproteinemia and nutrition
Another reason is hyperproteinemia. Pathology is characterized by an excess content of proteins in the bloodstream. It occurs due to a violation of the normal functioning of the liver. Proteins begin to “attract” an excess amount of water, while the number of red blood cells does not increase. Thus, their percentage with blood plasma decreases.
In adult patients, the hematocrit is also reduced with a sharp change in diet, prolonged fasting and blood loss.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, especially in the second trimester, a decrease in the value in question is considered normal. In women, the level of plasma volume increases, and red blood cells are not synthesized at an accelerated pace. Thus, the percentage of plasma-erythrocytes is shifted towards a decrease in the latter. The decrease in hematocrit value begins from the fourth week, reaching a peak by 31-35 weeks.
However, a long-term decrease in the index should not be ignored, it is necessary to conduct additional diagnostics in order to exclude the possible development of pathological conditions. Thus, a decrease in hematocrit up to 30% can cause the development of intrauterine fetal hypoxia, impaired fetoplacental circulation, fetal growth retardation, etc. An indicator of 15 to 25% indicates the need for immediate hospitalization of a pregnant woman, followed by continuous monitoring.
Other reasons
Also, low hematocrit in adults can be observed with:
- lead intoxication;
- splenomegaly;
- leukemias;
- conditions after chemotherapy;
- acute infectious processes;
- severe intoxications.
Is low hematocrit dangerous?
The main function of red blood cells is the sufficient supply of cells and tissues with molecular oxygen. With their decrease, there is an insufficient supply of oxygen to the organs. This has a particularly negative effect on the functional activity of the brain. A person has a decrease in concentration, memory and mental activity.
Adults with a low hematocrit are more susceptible to infectious diseases, are unable to function fully, get tired more quickly and lose concentration. In the future, a lack of red blood cells can lead to the development of pathologies of the cardiovascular system, liver and kidneys.
Methods for increasing hematocrit
Do not try to increase the level of red blood cells on your own. The necessary treatment will be selected by a specialist based on the results of laboratory and instrumental studies. In case of prolonged starvation or dehydration, it is necessary to restore the normal diet and the amount of fluid consumed per day. In this case, the patient can do without drug therapy. It is also important to establish a daily routine and plan enough time for rest and walks in the fresh air.
If there is a shortage of iron or other elements, the doctor will select the necessary drugs, their dosage and determine the duration of their course. You should not interrupt the course of treatment yourself, even if the symptoms of anemia no longer bother you. Iron-rich foods should be included in the diet. For example, beef liver, seafood, lentils, red meat, nuts and pomegranate.
The use of alternative methods of treatment without prior agreement with the doctor is unacceptable. It should be emphasized that these methods cannot be a sufficient alternative to the methods of official medicine. They can only complement the treatment, provided that the selected components do not block the action of the medicinal components.
Material provided
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Hematocrit
Hematocrit is the ratio of the volume of erythrocytes to the volume of the liquid part of the blood.
Determination of hematocrit is an integral part of the general blood test and is not performed separately.
Russian synonyms
Hematocrit value.
Synonyms English
Ht, Hct, Hematocrit, Crit, Haematocrit, PCV, Packed Cell Volume.
Units
% (percentage).
What biomaterial can be used for research?
Venous or capillary blood.
General information about the study
Hematocrit determines the amount of blood occupied by red blood cells in the bloodstream. This indicator is expressed as a percentage. For example, a hematocrit of 45% means that 100 milliliters of blood contains 45 milliliters of red blood cells.
An increase in hematocrit occurs if the number of red blood cells increases or the volume of the liquid part of the blood decreases, which happens when the body loses excess fluid (for example, with diarrhea). A decrease in this indicator is observed, on the contrary, with a decrease in the number of red blood cells (for example, due to their loss, destruction, or a decrease in their formation) or with overhydration – when a person receives too much fluid (for example, with excessive administration of intravenous solutions).
Hematocrit reflects not only the number of red blood cells, but also their size. If the size of red blood cells decreases (as in iron deficiency anemia), the hematocrit will also decrease.
What is research used for?
- In the diagnosis of anemia and polycythemia and to evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment.
- To determine the degree of dehydration.
- As one of the criteria for deciding on the need for a blood transfusion.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of blood transfusions.
When is the test ordered?
This test is part of a routine complete blood count, which is performed both routinely and in various diseases and pathological conditions, before surgical interventions.
In addition, it can be carried out repeatedly and at certain intervals:
- for dynamic monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment of anemia and polycythemia,
- after conditions causing dehydration,
- for recurrent bleeding for a comprehensive assessment of their severity.
What do the results mean?
Reference values
Age | Floor | Hematocrit, % |
41-65 | ||
14 days – 1 month | 33-55 | |
1-2 months | 28-42 | |
2-4 months | 32-44 | |
4-6 months | 31-41 | |
6-9 months | 32-40 | |
9-12 months | 33-41 | |
1-3 years | 32-40 | |
3-6 years | 33-41 | |
6-9 years | 34-43 | |
9-12 years old | 35-45 | |
12-15 years old | male | 35-45 |
female | 34-44 | |
15-18 years old | male | 37-48 |
female | 34-44 | |
18-45 years old | male | 39-49 |
female | 35-45 | |
45-65 years | male | 39-50 |
female | 35-47 | |
> 65 years old | male | 37-51 |
female | 35-47 |
Generally, the hematocrit corresponds to the number of red blood cells, but this is only true when the size of the red blood cells is normal. If the number of normal-sized red blood cells increases, the hematocrit also rises. In cases of large or small erythrocytes, this is not always the case. For example, with iron deficiency, red blood cells decrease and the hematocrit will be reduced, but the number of red blood cells per unit of blood may be normal and even slightly higher.
Hematocrit level above 55% requires clarification of the cause and further diagnostic search.
Causes of low hematocrit:
- iron-, B 12 – or folic deficiency anemia,
- acute or chronic bleeding (hematocrit and hemoglobin levels will be elevated during or immediately after bleeding),
- disorders of hemoglobin synthesis (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia),
- cirrhosis of the liver,
- destruction of erythrocytes as a result of hemolysis – the destruction of erythrocytes inside the body (it can occur for various reasons – due to a hereditary defect in erythrocytes, as a result of the appearance of antibodies to one’s own erythrocytes or toxic effects in malaria),
- oncological diseases of the bone marrow or metastases of other tumors in the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in the synthesis of red blood cells,
- excessive hydration of the body – the introduction of large volumes of intravenous fluids.
Causes of increased hematocrit:
- dehydration (dehydration) of any origin – due to diarrhea, profuse vomiting, diabetes, after burns,
- polycythemia vera due to excessive production of red blood cells in the bone marrow,
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
- chronic heart failure.
What can influence the result of ?
- The hematocrit level is normally reduced in pregnant women due to a physiological increase in the volume of the liquid part of the blood.
- Persons ascending to high altitudes experience an increase in the number of red blood cells and, consequently, in hematocrit, as their body adapts to the reduced oxygen concentration.
- Hematocrit may be increased in smokers due to oxygen deprivation of tissues and increased production of red blood cells.
- In newborns, the hematocrit level is increased, since they have quite a lot of large red blood cells in their blood.