Decreased hematocrit indicates
anemia, such as that caused by iron deficiency. Further testing may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the anemia.
Other conditions that can result in a low hematocrit include vitamin or mineral deficiencies, recent bleeding, cirrhosis of the liver, and malignancies.
The most common cause of increased hematocrit is dehydration, and with adequate fluid intake, the hematocrit returns to normal. However, it may reflect a condition called polycythemia vera—that is, when a person has more than the normal number of red blood cells. This can be due to a problem with the bone marrow or, more commonly, as compensation for inadequate lung function (the bone marrow manufacturers more red blood cells in order to carry enough oxygen throughout your body). Anytime a hematocrit is persistently high, the cause should be determined in consultation with a doctor.
With regard to transfusions, this is normally not considered for otherwise healthy persons as long as the hemoglobin level is above 8 grams per deciliter or the hematocrit is above 24%.
PLEASE NOTE: Numerically
reported test results are interpreted according to the test's reference range, which
may vary by the patient's age, sex, as well as the instrumentation or kit used to perform the
test. A specific result within the reference (normal) range – for any test – does not ensure
health just as a result outside the reference range may not indicate disease. To learn more
about reference ranges, please see the article,
Reference Ranges and What They Mean.
To learn the reference range for your test, consult your doctor or laboratorian. Lab Tests
Online recommends you consult your physician to discuss your test results as a part of a
complete medical examination.
Pregnancy usually causes slightly decreased hematocrit values due to extra fluid in the blood.
Living at high altitudes causes increased hematocrit values—this is your body’s response to the decreased oxygen available at these heights.
