Introduction
RBCs are blood tests that measure how many red blood cells our bodies contain. Hemoglobin, a protein, can be found in arteries and cells. It distributes oxygen throughout the body. The most effective way oxygen is distributed into the tissues relies on the number of red blood cells. The findings of an RBC count can be used to identify blood-related diseases such as anemia and iron insufficiency. Vitamin B6, B12, or folate deficiency might possibly be the cause of a low RBC count. Internal bleeding, renal illness, or malnourishment are all possibilities. There are many medical illnesses that can cause a high RBC count, including heart diseases and respiratory illnesses, and can be due to some tumors.
What Is a Red Blood Cell?
Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body commonly known as erythrocytes. They are in charge of carrying oxygen from the lungs to tissues. The tissues use oxygen to make energy and emit carbon dioxide as waste. By exhaling, red blood cells carry carbon dioxide waste to the lungs.
Red blood cells are tiny and are in the form of a flat disc or doughnut; it is circular with a central depression but not hollow. Because red blood cells do not have a nucleus like white blood cells, they may change form and move around the body more easily. The bone marrow produces red blood cells, and it is responsible for the formation of nearly all of the cells in the body. Hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen, is responsible for its brilliant red hue.
What Is Red Blood Cell Count?
The total number of red blood cells in the blood is determined by the red blood cell count or RBC. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body to every area. To flourish, reproduce, and remain healthy, the cells require oxygen. A greater or lower than usual RBC count is frequently the first indicator of sickness. As a result, the test may enable individuals to receive therapies. The (RBC) count is often known as the red count and erythrocyte count.
What Are the Possible Symptoms of Abnormal Red Blood Cell Count?
People may have symptoms and many difficulties if the RBC count is too high or too low. Some of these includes:
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Fatigue.
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Muscle wasting.
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Joint discomfort.
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Energy deficiency.
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Dizziness, lightheadedness, or headache.
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Vision is blurred.
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Hands and feet are cold.
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Breathing problems.
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A faster heartbeat.
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Sleep disturbances.
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Dry, itchy skin after showering or bathing.
What Are the Causes of Low Red Blood Cell Count?
A low RBC count can be caused by a variety of factors. These include the following:
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Cancer and cancer therapies.
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Chronic kidney disease (a condition that affects the kidneys).
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Sickle cell anemia.
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Loss of blood.
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Failure of key organs.
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Cigarettes smoking.
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Being at a high altitude.
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Dehydration.
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Conditions such as heart or lung disease.
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Malnutrition (RBCs may become misshapen or die off quicker than the body can replenish them if it does not receive a consistent supply of vital nutrients).
How Is the Red Blood Cell Count Test Performed?
This test does not need any preparation. A blood sample for an RBC count often involves many steps:
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To destroy any bacteria and avoid infection, the puncture site on the arm should be cleansed.
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An elastic band is stretched across the upper arm to exert pressure on the veins, causing them to expand and become easier to find. Making a fist can also assist the vein in swelling.
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A vein is pierced with a needle.
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Blood is drawn into a tube or vial linked to the needle. If various tests are being performed, more than one vial of blood may be required.
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The elastic band is withdrawn, and the strain on the upper arm is relieved.
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A piece of gauze or bandage is put over the location where the needle is removed once the blood draw is finished.
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To assist stop any bleeding, individuals may be advised to apply mild pressure. This may also aid in the reduction of soreness and bruising.
What Is the Range of a Normal Red Blood Cell Count?
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The RBC test will present all the information about the types and quantities of cells in the blood. The number of normal red blood cells varies from person to person.
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RBC normal ranges vary depending on age and sex at birth.
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Red blood cells per microliter of blood should range from 4.7 to 6.1 million in men and from 4.2 to 5.4 million in women.
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A child's red blood cell count should be between 4.0 and 5.5 million per microliter.
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Any RBC count that is lower or greater than usual might suggest a medical problem.
What Does an Abnormal Red Blood Cell Count Mean?
Red blood cells that are abnormally reduced or increased include the following:
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Congenital heart disease (a structural and functional problem with the heart that is present at birth).
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Dehydration
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Renal cell carcinoma (a kind of cancer that affects the kidney).
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Hypoxia (a condition in which there is a low blood oxygen level).
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Fibrosis of the lungs (scarring or thickening of the lungs).
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Polycythemia vera (a kind of bone marrow disease that causes an abnormal increase in RBCs).
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Leukemia (a type of blood cancer).
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Malnutrition.
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Multiple myeloma (a kind of cancer that affects the white blood cells).
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Kidney failure.
What Are the Treatments for Abnormal Red Blood Cell Count?
Treatment is required for all kinds of conditions. The therapy will be determined by the cause of the abnormal RBC count.
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Iron Therapy- Taking iron supplements or having iron infusions delivered directly into the veins can help in treating iron deficiency.
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Vitamin Supplements- This can help improve vitamin deficiency.
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Bone Marrow Transplant- It could be necessary in case of failure of the bone marrow.
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Erythropoietin (EPO)-Stimulating Medication- It can be given in some conditions that last for a long time.
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Blood Transfusion- This can help the body restore the RBCs in the body in case of blood loss.
How to Manage Abnormal Red Blood Cell Count?
Managing abnormal red blood cell count can be done by taking a few steps that include:
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Consuming a nutritious diet and avoiding vitamin deficiency.
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Involving in regular physical activity.
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Avoid taking Aspirin.
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Cutting back on alcohol consumption.
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Lowering the iron intake and red meat consumption.
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Consuming extra liquids.
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Avoid diuretics, such as coffee or alcohol-containing beverages.
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Smoking cessation.
Conclusion
Red blood cells flow throughout the body, bringing oxygen to the tissues and releasing carbon dioxide while breathing. An abnormally high or low RBC count might result in significant health problems. Maintaining the health of the red blood cells by eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals and refraining from smoking to lower the risk of red blood cell abnormalities. These lifestyle and dietary behaviors may be especially significant if there are blood malignancies or chronic diseases that might influence the RBC count.