Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. They contain hemoglobin, the substance that transports the oxygen.
Why it matters: How much oxygen reaches the body's tissues depends on how many red blood cells there are and how well they work. The count can help diagnose conditions such as iron deficiency anemia.
Source · NHS — what it is, why it matters, what moves it, related conditions
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is Red Blood Cells?
Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. They contain hemoglobin, the substance that transports the oxygen.
What might a high or low Red Blood Cells mean?
How much oxygen reaches the body's tissues depends on how many red blood cells there are and how well they work. The count can help diagnose conditions such as iron deficiency anemia.
What is the typical reference range for Red Blood Cells?
The general-population reference range shown here is 4.5 – 5.9 10x12/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect Red Blood Cells?
It may be higher with: Dehydration, Smoking, Low blood oxygen levels, Pulmonary fibrosis, Congenital heart disease. It may be lower with: Iron deficiency, Vitamin B6 or B12 deficiency, Folate deficiency, Internal bleeding, Kidney disease, Malnutrition.
Track your Red Blood Cells over time
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