Lab Test Interpretation
Upload your lab tests, receive detailed interpretations, personalized insights and recommendations.
Author
Dr Lusine BadalianReviewed by
Mary MarkaryanQuestion on this topic? Get an instant answer from AI Doctor.Instant answer from AI Doctor.
Hematocrit is a crucial blood biomarker indicating various conditions, such as anemia or dehydration. Managing abnormal hematocrit levels is essential for overall health, as it impacts the body's ability to transport oxygen efficiently.
Hematocrit (Hct) is a vital blood test parameter that measures the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in your total blood volume. The hematocrit level is crucial because RBCs carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
Understanding your hematocrit levels can help diagnose conditions such as anemia, dehydration, and polycythemia, among others.
Upload your lab tests, receive detailed interpretations, personalized insights and recommendations.
A hematocrit test is often prescribed when a doctor suspects conditions related to abnormal RBC counts. Symptoms prompting this test include:
The hematocrit test is performed using a blood sample. A hematocrit test is usually part of a routine Complete Blood Count (CBC).
To prepare for a hematocrit test, ensure you follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare provider, and stay hydrated, as dehydration can affect the results.
Hematocrit levels vary by age, sex, and specific conditions such as pregnancy. Below are the standard ranges:
Children
Males:
Females:
Adults
Pregnant Women
Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used.
Upload your lab tests, receive detailed interpretations, personalized insights and recommendations.
A high hematocrit level means your blood has a higher concentration of red blood cells than normal. This condition can lead to thicker blood, which can increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. Common causes include:
Low hematocrit levels indicate a reduced number of red blood cells, which can lead to oxygen deficiency in tissues and organs. This condition can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Causes of low hematocrit include:
If your hematocrit levels are abnormal, a consultation with a hematologist—a specialist in blood disorders—is often recommended. The hematologist may conduct further tests to determine the exact cause of the abnormal hematocrit levels and suggest appropriate treatments.
This article was written by doctors from the Docus Medical Research team and leading experts in hematology. We relied on academic studies, medical research, and publications from credible sources to ensure the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.
Have a question on this topic? Submit it here and get an instant answer from our AI Doctor.
Please Note!This tool is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a professional before taking any actions.
Docus partners with top medical experts to provide trusted health insights and second opinions in hematology.
Talk to Docus AI Doctor, generate health reports, get them validated by Top Doctors from the US and Europe.
Hemoglobin's functions, normal levels, and tips to manage low and high hemoglobin. Learn about hemoglobin tests and their importance for health.
Learn how cholesterol levels serve as a crucial biomarker for heart health and ways to manage them effectively.
Discover insulin's role as a biomarker in diagnosing and managing diabetes and related health conditions effectively.
Read about glucose levels in various test types, and their health impacts to effectively manage and prevent related complications.
Learn about the importance of FSH in reproductive health, its normal levels, and what high or low FSH levels can indicate.
Find out how creatinine levels can signal kidney health, with details on normal ranges and factors affecting these crucial indicators.