Hematocrit test - Everything you need to know

Blood is life. It carries oxygen and nutrients and keeps everything running smoothly in your body. But did you know your blood is made up of different parts? One of the most important ones is red blood cells (RBCs). They help carry oxygen. The hematocrit test checks how much of your blood is made up of RBCs. It’s a simple test but tells a lot about your health.
 

What is a hematocrit test?

This test measures the percentage of RBCs in your blood. If your hematocrit level is too high or too low, it can mean something’s off. Doctors use this test to check for anemia, dehydration, or other health issues. It’s usually part of a complete blood count (CBC) test, which gives a full picture of your blood health.

RBCs are super important because they carry oxygen from your lungs to every part of your body. If you don’t have enough RBCs, your body won’t get enough oxygen. If you have too many, your blood can get too thick, increasing the risk of clots. Balance is key.
 

Why would you need this test?

Sometimes, your body gives you signs that something isn’t right. If you have these symptoms, your doctor may ask for a hematocrit test:

• You feel exhausted all the time
• Your skin looks pale
• You feel dizzy or weak
• You’re losing weight for no reason
• Your heartbeat feels faster than usual
• You have trouble breathing or feel short of breath
• You get frequent headaches or chest pain
• You have a medical condition like kidney disease
• Your doctor is monitoring your health due to an ongoing condition

This test helps determine whether you have anemia (low RBCs) or polycythemia (high RBCs). It’s also useful before surgeries or as part of routine health checkups.
 

How is it done?

You don’t need to do much preparation. A healthcare worker will take a small blood sample, usually from your arm. They’ll use a needle to draw blood, and it only takes a few minutes. Then, the sample goes to a lab for testing.

If you’re nervous about blood tests, try to stay calm. Drink water before the test—hydration makes it easier to draw blood. You might feel a tiny pinch, but that’s about it. It’s quick and mostly painless.
 

Normal hematocrit levels

The normal range for hematocrit levels depends on your age, sex, and overall health. Here’s a general guide:

If your hematocrit level is outside this range, it could mean something is off. But don’t panic. Doctors look at other tests before making any conclusions. Factors like pregnancy, altitude, and hydration levels can also affect your results.

Pregnant women often have lower hematocrit levels due to increased blood volume. People living at high altitudes naturally have higher levels because of lower oxygen levels in the air.
 

What do low levels mean?

If your hematocrit level is low, it could mean:

• anemia – not enough RBCs, possibly due to iron or vitamin B12 deficiency
• blood loss – from an injury or internal bleeding
• kidney disease – kidneys help make RBCs, so if they’re not working well, your levels may drop
• bone marrow problems – your bone marrow makes blood cells, and some conditions slow this process
• overhydration – too much fluid in your body can dilute blood, making hematocrit look lower
• chronic diseases – conditions like cancer, thyroid issues, or autoimmune diseases can lower your levels
   

Symptoms of low hematocrit include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat. If left untreated, severe anemia can lead to complications like heart problems. Your doctor may suggest vitamin supplements,  iron supplements, diet changes, or other treatments.
 

What do high levels mean?

If your hematocrit level is high, it could mean:

• dehydration – less fluid in your blood makes hematocrit seem high
• lung disease – if your lungs aren’t getting enough oxygen, your body makes extra RBCs
• heart disease – certain heart conditions cause your body to produce more RBCs
• polycythemia vera – a rare condition where the body makes too many RBCs
• smoking – smoking reduces oxygen in the blood, so the body compensates by making more RBCs
• living at high altitudes – your body makes more RBCs to adjust to lower oxygen levels
   

Symptoms of high hematocrit include headaches, dizziness, blurry vision, high blood pressure, and a reddish skin tone. In severe cases, it can lead to blood clots, which increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. Keeping track of your blood health is essential! Learn more about monitoring your blood sugar levels in our guide on the Random Blood Sugar Test.
 

How to keep your hematocrit levels balanced

Keeping your blood healthy isn’t hard. Here’s what you can do:

• Eat iron-rich foods – spinach, red meat, lentils, and beans help increase RBCs
• Get enough vitamin B12 and folic acid – found in eggs, dairy, and leafy greens
• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water daily
• Exercise regularly – physical activity helps blood circulation
• Quit smoking – smoking affects oxygen levels and impacts hematocrit
• Manage underlying conditions – if you have a disease affecting blood production, follow your doctor’s advice
• Donate blood if needed – if you have high hematocrit levels, donating blood can help lower them
• Limit alcohol – too much alcohol can interfere with blood production
   

What distinguishes a hematocrit test from a hemoglobin test?

A hematocrit test measures the proportion of red blood cells in your blood. Hemoglobin is a component of your red blood cells. It enables your red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout your body. Additionally, hemoglobin imparts color to your red blood cells. A hemoglobin test assesses the quantity of hemoglobin in your red blood cells.
 

What does it indicate if both hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are low?

Three reasons might result in lower levels of both hematocrit and hemoglobin:

• You may be experiencing blood loss due to an injury or illness.
• Your bone marrow may not be producing sufficient red blood cells.
• Your red blood cells might be dying earlier than normal.
• If you are undergoing hormone therapy, consult your healthcare provider, as your lab results may vary.
   

What are the potential risks associated with a hematocrit test?

A hematocrit test is generally not linked to significant side effects or hazards. You might experience slight bleeding or throbbing at the site where blood was drawn. Inform your doctor if you notice any swelling or bleeding that persists for more than a few minutes after applying pressure to the puncture site.
 

When should you see a doctor?

If you’re feeling off—fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, unusual bleeding—it’s a good idea to see a doctor. They may ask for a hematocrit test along with other tests to figure out what’s going on. Don’t ignore unusual symptoms, especially if they last for a while.

If your hem

atocrit levels are too high or too low, your doctor will guide you on what to do next. Sometimes, simple changes like drinking more water or adjusting your diet can help. In other cases, medications or treatments may be needed.
 

Conclusion

You may have had a blood test indicating your hematocrit levels are above or below the normal range. Many factors can cause this variation. Elevated or decreased hematocrit levels can sometimes indicate significant health issues. Regular checkups and a balanced diet can help keep your blood in top shape. Listen to your body If something feels off, don’t ignore it—early diagnosis can prevent serious problems. Stay proactive about your health. Book a health checkup today at TruePal.
 

FAQs

1. What might that mean if my hematocrit levels are elevated? 

Elevated hematocrit levels may suggest:

• congenital heart issues
• dehydration
• kidney tumors
• respiratory disorders
• polycythemia vera

Your physician will likely evaluate your hematocrit results alongside other components of the CBC test and your overall symptoms before reaching a diagnosis.

2. What can a hematocrit test reveal to you?

A hematocrit test (Hct) is a straightforward blood examination that assesses the proportion of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells are crucial as they transport oxygen throughout your body.

3. How does one prepare for a hematocrit test?

No specific preparations are necessary for a hematocrit test. If your healthcare provider has requested additional tests on your blood sample, you might have to refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before the test. Your provider will inform you if there are any specific guidelines to follow.

4. What is the principle behind the hematocrit test?

The Mayo Clinic suggests that hematocrit levels are measured by spinning a blood sample in a lab This process causes the plasma and blood cells to separate, with the denser red blood cells settling at the bottom of the tube. The quantity is then measured to determine what percentage of your blood comprises red blood cells.