Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total volume of blood. A low hematocrit level indicates that the body does not have enough red blood cells.

While anemia is the most common cause of low hematocrit, there are other factors that can contribute to this condition. In this article, we will discuss the causes of low hematocrit beyond anemia.

Causes of Low Hematocrit

Low hematocrit can occur when the body does not produce enough red blood cells or loses them through bleeding or destruction. The following are some of the possible causes of low hematocrit:.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a condition that affects the kidneys’ ability to filter blood.

People with chronic kidney disease may have a low hematocrit level because the kidneys produce less of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

Bone Marrow Disorders

Bone marrow disorders such as leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and aplastic anemia can cause low hematocrit. These disorders affect the production of red blood cells, which can result in anemia and low hematocrit.

Bleeding

Bleeding can lead to low hematocrit levels if the body loses a significant amount of blood. Trauma, surgery, and gastrointestinal bleeding are some of the causes of bleeding that can lead to low hematocrit.

Women with heavy menstrual bleeding can also experience low hematocrit levels.

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is associated with low hematocrit levels. Inflammation can affect the production of red blood cells and cause anemia.

Chronic inflammation is often seen in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Related Article Exploring the Other Causes of Low Hematocrit

Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, can cause low hematocrit levels. These vitamins are essential for the production of red blood cells. A lack of these vitamins can lead to anemia and low hematocrit.

Vegetarians and vegans are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can cause low hematocrit levels. Hypothyroidism, for example, can lead to low levels of EPO, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. This can result in anemia and low hematocrit levels.

Heavy Metal Poisoning

Heavy metal poisoning, such as lead poisoning, can affect the production of red blood cells and lead to low hematocrit levels. Heavy metal poisoning can occur through environmental exposure or ingestion of contaminated food or water.

Medications

Some medications can cause low hematocrit levels as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer, for example, can affect the production of red blood cells and lead to anemia and low hematocrit.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also cause bleeding in the stomach, leading to low hematocrit levels.

Liver Disease

Liver disease can cause low hematocrit levels due to its impact on the production of EPO. The liver produces EPO, and damage to the liver can affect the production of this hormone, leading to anemia and low hematocrit levels.

Blood Disorders

Some blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, can cause low hematocrit levels. These disorders affect the shape and structure of red blood cells, resulting in anemia and low hematocrit levels.

Conclusion

Low hematocrit levels can occur due to various factors beyond anemia. Understanding the causes of low hematocrit is essential in diagnosing and treating the underlying condition.

If you are experiencing symptoms of low hematocrit, such as fatigue and weakness, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.