A few questions help us personalize your report.
Your red blood cell count (RBC) measures the total number of red blood cells circulating in your blood, directly reflecting your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. A low RBC often accompanies anemia and can explain fatigue and shortness of breath, while an elevated count may indicate dehydration or a bone marrow condition driving excess production. It's best interpreted alongside hemoglobin, ferritin, and MCV (mean cell volume) for a complete picture.
Also known as: Erythrocyte Count, Erythrocytes, RBC, RBC Count, Red Blood Cell Count, Red Blood Cells, Red Cell Count
High RBC increases blood viscosity and clotting risk from chronic hypoxia, polycythemia vera, dehydration, or testosterone therapy. Low RBC confirms anemia from iron or B12 deficiency, chronic kidney disease, bone marrow failure, or chronic inflammation.
Standard range is 4.0-5.5 M/uL for women and 4.5-6.1 M/uL for men. RBC count alone doesn't reveal the cause of anemia - pair it with MCV, ferritin, and reticulocyte count.