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Red Blood Cell Count

A red blood cell count (RBC) determines the number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen to cells. Your cells require oxygen to grow, reproduce, and function correctly.

Why does RBC count?

The RBC measurement is an aid in diagnosing red blood cell disorders like anemia when the human body stops producing enough healthy red blood cells.

When to have this test?

One may require this test if having symptoms of a low or high red blood cell count.

Low red blood cell count symptoms include:

  • Weakness.
  • Fatigue.
  • Pale skin.
  • Rapid heartbeat.

High red blood cell count symptoms include:

  • Headache.
  • Dizziness.
  • Vision problems.

Red blood cell count procedure

A health care professional will use a small needle to take a blood sample from a vein in the arm. Following the insertion of the hand, a small amount of blood gets collected in a test tube. During in or out procedure, one might feel a sting.

When to have this test?

Results from the RBC count

RBC count helps in diagnosing blood-related conditions.

A low RBC count could also indicate:

  • Anemia.
  • Lack of vitamin B6, B12, or folate.
  • Internal bleeding.
  • Kidney disease.
  • Malnutrition.

A high red blood cell count can indicate:

  • Dehydration.
  • Cardiovascular disease.
  • Lung disease causes scarring of the lungs.
  • Cancer of the kidney.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022