Hematocrit is a measure of the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood. It is an important measure that shows the overall health of your blood and can help diagnose various disorders.

In this article, we’ll discuss what hematocrit is, when to get it checked, what the normal range is, and what it means if your hematocrit levels are high or low.

What is Hematocrit?

Hematocrit (Hct) is a diagnostic test that measures the percentage of RBCs in your blood.

It is usually part of a complete blood count (CBC), a routine blood test that measures various components in your blood, such as white blood cells (WBCs), RBCs, and platelets. Hematocrit is expressed as a percentage of the total blood volume occupied by RBCs. To measure hematocrit, a small sample of blood is drawn from your vein and spun in a centrifuge that separates the blood components.

The percentage of RBCs is then calculated by dividing the volume of RBCs by the total volume of blood.

When to Get Hematocrit Checked?

A hematocrit test may be ordered as part of a routine checkup or if your doctor suspects that you may have a blood disorder. Some specific situations where a hematocrit test may be ordered include:.

If you have symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.
If you have symptoms of polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder characterized by an overproduction of RBCs.
If you have symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or dark urine.
If you are undergoing treatment for cancer, as chemotherapy can lower RBC count.
If you have a family history of blood disorders.

What is Normal Hematocrit Range?

The normal range for hematocrit varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. Generally, the normal hematocrit ranges are:.

For adult males: 40.7% to 50.3%
For adult females: 36.1% to 44.3%
For children: 37% to 44%

It is important to note that the normal range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory where the test was performed. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your specific situation, including any symptoms or medical history.

What does High Hematocrit Level Mean?

A high hematocrit level, also known as polycythemia, means that the percentage of RBCs in your blood is higher than normal. Some possible causes of high hematocrit include:.

Dehydration, as this can lead to a concentration of RBCs
Lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as this can lead to poor oxygenation and increased production of RBCs
Certain medications, such as testosterone or erythropoietin (EPO)
Primary polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder characterized by overproduction of RBCs
Obstructive sleep apnea, which can cause repeated episodes of low oxygen levels and stimulate RBC production

If your hematocrit levels are high, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.

What does Low Hematocrit Level Mean?

A low hematocrit level, also known as anemia, means that the percentage of RBCs in your blood is lower than normal. Some possible causes of low hematocrit include:.

Blood loss, such as from injury, surgery, or menstruation
Vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as iron, folate, or vitamin B12
Bone marrow disorders, such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome
Kidney disease, which can lead to decreased production of erythropoietin (EPO)
Chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease

If your hematocrit levels are low, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.

Conclusion

Hematocrit is an important measure of the overall health of your blood and can help diagnose various disorders. It is a simple blood test that is usually part of a complete blood count (CBC).

The normal hematocrit range varies depending on age, gender, and other factors, and your doctor will interpret your results based on your specific situation. If your hematocrit levels are high or low, your doctor may order additional tests to diagnose the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.