Hematocrit is a component of a blood test that measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Low levels of hematocrit can be a sign of anemia.

It’s important to know the reasons behind a drop in hematocrit levels and seek medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. This article presents some of the common signs and symptoms of low hematocrit levels.

What is hematocrit?

The hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in whole blood. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Normally, hematocrit levels range from 38% to 52% for men and 35% to 47% for women. Low hematocrit levels can lead to anemia.

Why hematocrit levels drop?

There are several reasons why hematocrit levels may drop, including:.

Blood loss due to injury, surgery, or heavy menstrual periods in women
Lack of iron or other nutrients necessary for red blood cell production
Chronic diseases such as kidney disease, cancer, and HIV/AIDS
Inherited conditions that affect red blood cell production, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa
Medications that interfere with red blood cell production or increase blood loss, such as chemotherapy drugs and blood thinners

Signs and symptoms of low hematocrit levels

Some common signs and symptoms of low hematocrit levels include:.

Fatigue or weakness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Shortness of breath
Irritability
Cold extremities
Pale skin, mucous membranes, and nail beds
Low blood pressure
Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

Diagnosis of low hematocrit levels

Hematocrit levels are measured through a blood test. A complete blood count (CBC) is a common test that measures the levels of different cells in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

A doctor may order a CBC if they suspect a patient has low hematocrit levels, anemia, or another blood disorder. Additional tests may be done to determine the underlying cause of low hematocrit levels.

Treating low hematocrit levels

The treatment for low hematocrit levels depends on the underlying cause. For example:.

Anemia due to iron deficiency may be treated with iron supplements and changes in diet.
Blood transfusions may be necessary if there has been significant blood loss.
Chronic diseases may require medical management to prevent further damage to the body and blood cells.
Certain medications may need to be stopped or adjusted to prevent further damage to the blood cells.
Inherited conditions may require long-term management and treatment to prevent complications.

Conclusion

Low hematocrit levels can indicate a variety of medical conditions and should not be ignored. If you experience any of the signs and symptoms listed above, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

With proper management, most people can improve their hematocrit levels and reduce the risk of complications.