Hematocrit is a blood test commonly used to measure the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood. It is expressed as a percentage of the total blood volume.

A low hematocrit level means that there is a lower number of RBCs in the blood than what is considered normal. Low hematocrit can be an indication of a health problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. This article will explore the causes and symptoms of low hematocrit.

What Causes Low Hematocrit?

There are several possible causes of low hematocrit. Some of the most common include:.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs when there are not enough RBCs in the blood. This can happen due to a lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folate in the diet. Anemia can also be caused by blood loss due to surgery, injury, or menstrual bleeding.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease can lead to low hematocrit because the kidneys are responsible for producing a hormone called erythropoietin. Erythropoietin stimulates the bone marrow to produce RBCs.

When the kidneys are not functioning properly, the body may not produce enough of this hormone, resulting in low hematocrit.

Bone Marrow Disorders

Bone marrow disorders such as leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, or aplastic anemia can cause low hematocrit. These disorders affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy RBCs.

Blood Loss

Acute or chronic blood loss can also result in low hematocrit levels. Acute blood loss may be due to a severe injury or surgery. Chronic blood loss may be due to a gastrointestinal condition such as ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body produces more blood to support the growing fetus. This can dilute the concentration of RBCs in the blood, resulting in low hematocrit.

What are the Symptoms of Low Hematocrit?

Low hematocrit may not cause any symptoms in mild cases. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms may appear. Some of the most common symptoms of low hematocrit include:.

Fatigue and Weakness

Low hematocrit can cause fatigue and weakness due to the decrease in oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Cells in the body may not get enough oxygen, leading to feelings of tiredness and weakness.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can occur when there are not enough RBCs to transport oxygen throughout the body. The lungs may work harder to compensate for the lack of oxygen in the blood, leading to breathlessness.

Pale Skin

Low hematocrit can cause pale skin due to the lack of RBCs. The skin may appear paler than usual, especially in the face, gums, and nails.

Dizziness and Fainting

Lack of oxygen to the brain can cause dizziness or fainting. When the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen, it may not function properly, and these symptoms may occur.

Cold Hands and Feet

Low hematocrit can cause cold hands and feet due to poor circulation. The lack of RBCs in the blood can mean that less oxygen is delivered to the extremities, which can result in coldness.

Conclusion

Low hematocrit can be an indicator of an underlying health problem and should not be ignored. It is essential to consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed above or suspect that you may have low hematocrit.

Early detection and treatment are key to managing or resolving the underlying condition.