What is Hematocrit (HCT) in Blood Test? What is High and Low Hematocrit (HCT) Value? Causes & Treatment?
- Health Garden
- Feb 26, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 19, 2024
Hematocrit (HCT) test in the blood is a measurement of the ratio of red blood cell (RBC) volume to circulating blood volume. So, a hematocrit test measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood and is a parameter included in a complete blood count test. If there are 35 ml of red blood cells in 100 ml of blood, the HCT rate is 35%.
Since red blood cells ensure the oxygen-carbon dioxide cycle in the body, their number and ratio in the blood are of great importance.
What is A Normal Hematocrit (HCT) Range in Blood Test ?
The normal Hematocrit (HCT) level in a blood test is 38% to 48% in men, 35% to 45% in women, and in newborns 55% to 68%. Hematocrit (HCT) value is high in newborn babies, but decreases to normal levels over time. As the amount of blood in circulation increases during pregnancy, Hematocrit (HCT) density decreases and lower Hematocrit (HCT) values may be observed.
Rates may vary slightly depending on laboratory conditions. Additionally, it may differ from machine to machine on which it is read.
What is High Hematocrit (HCT) Value in Blood Test?
A high Hematocrit (HCT) value in a blood test is above the upper limit. This is defined as more than 48% in men, 45% in women and 68% in newborns.
A high hematocrit level is a sign that the body is producing more red blood cells.
As the hematocrit level increases, blood may become thicker and less liquid. This may increase the risk of blood clots forming.
If the hematocrit level is high, a doctor should be consulted.
What Causes High Hematocrit (HCT) Level in Blood Test?
More than one reason can cause a high hematocrit level. The reasons for high hematocrit level can be listed as follows:
Chronic lung diseases: Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or chronic bronchitis can affect oxygen exchange, causing the body to produce more red blood cells.
Heart diseases: Heart diseases such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension can cause an increase in red blood cells in the body.
Living at high altitude: Living at high altitude means the body receives less oxygen. In this case, the body produces more red blood cells.
Polycythemia vera
High Hematocrit (HCT) Symptoms
If hemoglobin is too high, it may present with various symptoms. These may include:
Headache
Feeling light-headed or dizzy
Shortness of breath
Weakness or fatigue
Itching
Red face
Heavy sweating
Blurred or double vision
Bleeding gums and heavy bleeding from small cuts
How to Treat High Hematocrit (HCT) Level?
To decrease high hematocrit level, the underlying cause must first be found. When the underlying disease is treated, the hematocrit level may return to normal levels.
These people can also help with treatment by making lifestyle changes. For this reason, people who experience high hematocrit should consult their doctor and choose the appropriate treatment option.
What is Low Hematocrit (HCT) Level in Blood Test?
Low Hematocrit (HCT) level in the blood is a value below the lower reference value. This is defined as less than 38% in men, 35% in women and 55% in newborns.
A low hematocrit value is related to the body's inability to produce enough red blood cells or blood loss.
What Causes Low Hematocrit (HCT) Level in Blood Test?
The reasons for low hematocrit level can be listed as follows:
Iron deficiency: Iron is an important component of the structure of red blood cells. In iron deficiency, the production of red blood cells will also be low.
Vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin for red blood cells. In case of vitamin B12 deficiency, red blood cell production will be insufficient.
Blood loss: Blood loss can reduce the number of red blood cells in the body, causing low hematocrit levels. Blood loss can occur for many reasons, including injury or internal bleeding.
Bone marrow problems: Bone marrow problems can also be the cause of low hematocrit levels. Bone marrow is where blood cells are produced. Bone marrow problems can cause red blood cells to not be produced in sufficient numbers or to not function normally. This condition can be caused by many different factors, including certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, used during cancer treatment.
Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases, especially kidney or liver diseases or inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the production of red blood cells.
Genetic factors: In rare cases, genetic disorders such as thalassemia or sickle cell anemia, an inherited condition, can cause a low hematocrit level.
A low hematocrit level can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to determine the cause of the low hematocrit level and apply appropriate treatment.
Low Hematocrit (HCT) Symptoms
When the hematocrit is low, it causes some negative symptoms and we can list some of them as follows:
Fatigue and weakness
Pale skin
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Heart palpitations
Headache
Loss of appetite
Cold hands and feet
Arrhythmia
How to Treat Low Hematocrit (HCT) Level?
Treatment for low hematocrit may vary depending on the underlying causes. It first starts with treating the underlying causes. Treatment methods may include:
Iron supplements
Vitamin supplements
Consuming foods rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12: Especially red meat, kidney, liver, egg yolk, dried fruits, hazelnuts, milk and dairy products can be given as examples of these foods.
In order for the treatment to be successful, it is important to follow the treatment recommendations and have regular medical check-ups.
A healthy diet and lifestyle can also help prevent low hematocrit levels.