The Hematocrit Test (HCT) is a simple and quick test that measures the amount of red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood proportion of red blood cells to white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen to all areas of the body, allowing them to efficiently perform their vital functions.
Why is it done?
HCT test is a part of Complete blood count test (CBC). To assess health conditions it is important to know the proportion of red cells. The HCT test is used to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, such as anemia, polycythemia, and other blood disorders. Doctors may ask for this test if any individual shows signs similar to anemia.
What is the Normal range for HCT levels?
The normal range of hematocrit depends on a number of factors besides age, including gender, health status, previous occurrence of diseases. Here sharing the interpretation of the level -
- Adult males: 41% to 50%
- Adult females: 36% to 44%.
- Infants: 32% to 42%
- Newborns: 45% to 61%
What does it mean if your hematocrit is low?
- Ulcers, trauma, colon cancer, internal bleeding
- Destruction of red blood cells
- Bone marrow generates less red blood cells than normal
- Nutritional problems such as low iron, B 12, folate and malnutrition
- Malnutrition
- Chronic kidney diseases
- Thyroid disease
Symptoms low hematocrit levels-
- Pale complexion
- Weakness along with fatigue
- Low energy
- Trouble breathingn
- Irregular heartbeat
- Cold hands or feet
What does it mean if your hematocrit is high?
- Failure of the right side of the heart
- Low oxygen levels in the blood
- Scarring or thickening of the lungs
- Dehydration
- A disorder, such as polycythemia vera
- Lung or heart disease
- Obstructive sleep apnea
Symptoms High hematocrit levels-
- Skin problems such as itching after a shower or bath, burning, or a red face.
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Headaches
- Heavy sweating, especially during sleep
- Blurry vision
- Heavy sweating
Demographic and lifestyle factors have a potential to affect HCT level. Males tend to have higher levels than females. Pregnant individuals can experience a decrease in hematocrit levels, and strength training may help in reducing levels. A doctor is the best person to determine the cause before any treatment. We can assure best pathological services. We do provide home sample collection for saving time.
To book the test, please contact us at +91(79) 49006800 or visit www.unipath.in