What are erythrocytes?
This test measures the number of red blood cells. This is a quick way of checking blood cells and checking for anaemia. This test is included in Nordic Wellth’s Complete Blood Count (CBC) test.
Why test erythrocytes?
Doctors test white blood cells in case of symptoms like weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin, to monitor changes to blood values over time, and to uncover risk factors for lifestyle diseases.
What causes low erythrocyte levels?
A low level suggests anemia, the most common of which is iron deficiency anemia (IDA). This can be due to a lack of dietary iron, iron loss, pregnancy, or malabsorption and is associated with certain health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Low B12, folate, and long-term alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of anemia. The results of an RBC test are considered alongside other test results. Some causes of a low RBC count include trauma, red blood cell destruction, bleeding from the digestive tract, nutrient deficiency, and various health conditions. Low RBC could indicate a need for vitamin C.
Symptoms of low erythrocytes
Low erythrocyte levels, or red blood cells, can lead to symptoms associated with anaemia. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Individuals may also experience dizziness, pale or yellowish skin, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Other signs include headaches, cold hands and feet, and chest pain. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical evaluation.
What causes high erythrocyte levels?
Known as polycythemia, high levels have several causes including dehydration, lung disease, smoking, and asthma.
Symptoms of high erythrocytes
High erythrocyte levels can cause headaches, dizziness, and high blood pressure. Other signs include fatigue, blurred vision, itching (especially after a hot shower), ruddy complexion, nosebleeds, and an increased risk of blood clots. Medical evaluation is important to manage these symptoms and address underlying causes.
More Information
The erythrocyte test measures the number of red blood cells in the blood. Red blood cells transport oxygen from the lungs around the body, and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. If the RBC count is low (as with anemia), the body cannot get the oxygen required. If the RBC is too high (polycythemia), red blood cells may clump together and block the capillaries, reducing the RBC’s ability to transport oxygen.
Values that are slightly outside the reference range can be normal. Reference ranges are not perfect and approximately 5% of healthy individuals may have results outside the reference range.
Preparations for this test
No preparation is needed for this test.
On the day of the test
Always take your ID with you when going for a test. Arrive early and sit down quietly for 15 minutes before the test is taken.