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Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. In anemia, the red blood cell count is reduced.
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Hematocrit, volume percentage of red blood cells in blood

Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. In anemia, the red blood cell count is reduced.

Hematocrit

  • Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
  • Hematocrit is part of the blood count.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit indicates the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Red blood cells transport oxygen from the lungs to other organs. Hematocrit is part of the blood count.

Reference values for hematocrit (EVF)

Reference values for hematocrit are:

Men: 0,39–0,50

Women: 0,35–0,46 

Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method.

High hematocrit level

Hematocrit usually changes at the same rate as hemoglobin. It is useful for detecting issues such as excessive red blood cell count, i.e. polycythemia. Polycythemia, in turn, can be caused by a blood, lung, or heart disease, or by a temporary reason, such as staying in thin mountain air.

Some sudden health issues, such as dehydration, burns, or prolonged physical exertion, can raise the body’s hematocrit levels. Heavy smoking and use of the EPO hormone also raise the levels of hematocrit. 

Low hematocrit level

Low hematocrit indicates that the number of red blood cells is lower than normal in relation to the overall blood volume. This can be caused either by too few red blood cells or too many other blood cells. 

FAQ

If the platelet count is too high, it is important to identify and treat the underlying causes of this condition. Common ways to manage platelet count include hydration and the use of blood thinners such as aspirin as directed by a doctor. In some cases, other medications or treatments may be used, such as blood thinners or treatments aimed at improving blood circulation. It is important to discuss with a doctor before starting any treatment.

An adult human has an average of about five liters of blood. The amount of blood can vary individually and is about 7-8% of a person’s total body weight. For example, a person weighing 70 kilograms has about five and a half liters of blood. The amount of blood is important as it transports oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body and helps remove waste products.

Red blood cells live for an average of 120 days in the human body. After this, they are primarily broken down in the spleen, where their iron is salvaged and used to produce new red blood cells. The lifespan of red blood cells can vary among different people and under different conditions, but 120 days is a generally accepted average.

The treatment of macrocytosis typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause. If macrocytosis is due to a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, treatment includes supplementing these vitamins. If it is related to alcohol use, reducing or stopping alcohol consumption is recommended. The doctor may also prescribe other treatments depending on the cause of the macrocytosis.

The rate of decrease in MCV (mean corpuscular volume) depends on what has caused the change. For example, in the treatment of iron deficiency, MCV can start to decrease within a few weeks of starting iron supplementation. If the change in MCV is due to other health-related causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or bone marrow diseases, the rate of decrease can vary.

A complete blood count is usually taken when there is a desire to get a comprehensive picture of a person’s general health status or when there is a need to monitor certain health-related changes. A complete blood count can help identify various conditions, such as anemia.

Article updated:
23 October 2024

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