Know Your Blood Parameter: RBC

1. Parameter Name 

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)

2. Test Type 

Blood

3. Normal Range

• Men: 4.7 – 6.1 million cells/µL

• Women: 4.2 – 5.4 million cells/µL

• Children: 4.1 – 5.5 million cells/µL

  
  

4. High Levels Indicate 

Known as erythrocytosis or polycythemia, it may indicate dehydration, smoking, heart or lung disease, or a condition like polycythemia vera.

5. Low Levels Indicate 

Called anemia, it may result from iron, B12, or folate deficiency, blood loss, chronic kidney disease, or bone marrow disorders.

6. Why It's Tested 

To evaluate oxygen-carrying capacity, detect anemia or polycythemia, and monitor chronic illnesses or treatments like chemotherapy.

7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal)

• Low: Fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, dizziness

• High: Headache, blurry vision, flushed skin, high blood pressure

  
  

8. What To Do If Abnormal 

Discuss with a doctor. Additional tests may include Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Iron studies, Vitamin B12, Kidney function tests.

9. Common Conditions Related 

Anemia (iron, B12, folate deficiency), polycythemia vera, chronic hypoxia, kidney disease.

10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection 

Include iron-rich foods (leafy greens, lentils, red meat), B12 (eggs, dairy, fish), and folate (beans, citrus fruits). Avoid smoking and stay hydrated.

11. References (APA Format)

• MedlinePlus. (2023). Red blood cell count (RBC). U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/red-blood-cell-count-rbc/ 

• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Anemia and RBC count. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anemia

• Pagana, K. D., & Pagana, T. J. (2021). Mosby’s diagnostic and laboratory test reference (15th ed.). Elsevier.

• American Society of Hematology. (2021). Anemia and red blood cell disorders. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia