Hematocrit refers to the volume percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in the total volume of blood. A low hematocrit count indicates a decrease in the number of RBCs in the blood.

This can result in a reduced amount of oxygen being delivered to the body’s tissues, leading to various health issues. In this article, we will discuss the different causes of low hematocrit count and their effects on the body.

Anemia

Anemia is a common condition characterized by a low level of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein present in RBCs. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body.

When there is a deficiency of hemoglobin, the body cannot transport enough oxygen to the tissues, leading to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. There are various types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia, vitamin deficiency anemia, and hemolytic anemia.

Blood Loss

Blood loss can lead to a low hematocrit count. The loss of blood can result from injury, surgery, gastrointestinal bleeding, or menstrual bleeding.

When there is a significant loss of blood, the body tries to compensate by increasing the production of RBCs. However, if the rate of blood loss exceeds the rate of RBC production, the hematocrit count will decrease.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that affects the functioning of the kidneys. The kidneys play an essential role in producing erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce RBCs.

In CKD, the kidneys fail to produce sufficient erythropoietin, resulting in a low hematocrit count. Patients with CKD may require erythropoietin injections to increase their RBC count.

Bone Marrow Disorders

Bone marrow disorders can lead to a low hematocrit count by reducing the production of RBCs. These disorders may include leukemia, myeloma, or lymphoma.

They can lead to abnormal cells replacing the healthy cells in the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in RBC production.

Infections

Some infections can result in a low hematocrit count. Infections such as malaria, HIV, and hepatitis can lead to the destruction of RBCs, either by the infection itself or as a result of medication to treat the infection.

Hemolysis

Hemolysis refers to the breakdown of RBCs. This could be due to inherited conditions such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia. Hemolysis can also be triggered by infections, certain medications, or exposure to toxins or chemicals.

When RBCs are destroyed, the body tries to compensate by increasing the production of new RBCs. However, if the rate of destruction exceeds the rate of production, the hematocrit count will decrease.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition can lead to a low hematocrit count by reducing the production of RBCs. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate can lead to anemia and a decrease in hematocrit count.

Malnutrition can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, digestive disorders, or malabsorption syndromes.

Medication Side Effects

Some medications can have side effects that reduce the production of RBCs. Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer, for example, may cause a low hematocrit count.

Other medications that may cause anemia include antibiotics, anticoagulants, and anticonvulsants.

Heavy Metal Poisoning

Heavy metal poisoning can lead to a low hematocrit count. Exposure to metals such as lead, mercury, or arsenic can cause damage to the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in RBC production.

Symptoms of heavy metal poisoning may include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Dehydration

Dehydration can also lead to a low hematocrit count. When the body loses fluids and electrolytes, the blood becomes thicker, leading to a decrease in hematocrit count.

This is because the amount of RBCs remains constant, while the volume of blood decreases.