What does the Red Blood Cell Count - RBC blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
The Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) measures the number of red blood cells in a sample of blood. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. This test is crucial for assessing overall health and can help diagnose various conditions such as anemia, polycythemia, and other blood disorders. It's also useful in monitoring the effectiveness of treatments for blood-related conditions and evaluating the body's ability to transport oxygen efficiently. The RBC count is often considered alongside other parameters like hemoglobin and hematocrit to provide a comprehensive picture of red blood cell health and function.
A low RBC count, known as anemia, can indicate various health issues:
Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. Further testing is usually required to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
A high RBC count, known as polycythemia, can be a sign of several conditions:
Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and an increased risk of blood clots. The underlying cause needs to be identified and treated. In some cases, therapeutic phlebotomy may be recommended to reduce the RBC count.