Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. In anemia, the red blood cell count is reduced.
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 are:
Men: 0,39–0,50
Women: 0,35–0,46
Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method.
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 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.
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Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. In anemia, the red blood cell count is reduced.
The number of red blood cells is examined in connection with a blood count. In cases of anemia, the number of red blood cells is low.
Article updated:
19 February 2024
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