Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells (RBCs), also known as erythrocytes, contain hemoglobin that transports oxygen to every cell in your body. Oxygen is essential for the cells to grow, reproduce, stay healthy, and function properly. Hence, the amount of oxygen each cell gets depends on the number of RBCs and how well they work.

A high or low RBC level is often the first sign of an illness. A high RBC count may be caused by low blood oxygen levels, smoking, and dehydration, and may indicate the presence of lung disease, congenital heart disease, polycythemia vera, etc. A low RBC count may indicate anemia, vitamin B6 or B12 deficiency, malnutrition, or kidney disease. The Red Blood Cell Count test usually needs no special preparation; you can eat and drink as per your daily routine.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, and formulate your overall treatment plan.