Speaking of hematocrit we mean the percentage of red blood cells that are in our body with respect to the total amount of blood we have. Maintaining adequate levels will indicate that we are healthy, at least with regard to the amount of erythrocytes, however when the percentage is lower than the average it could indicate the presence of some clear conditions, so it is essential to visit a hematologist for a diagnosis. While you do it at OneHowTo.com we give you the most common reasons why you have a high hematocrit.
Normal hematocrit values
Although the values may vary slightly between laboratories, which is why it is important to pay attention to the reference levels found in blood tests, normal hematocrit values usually range between the following numbers:
- Women: between 36.1% and 44.3%
- Men: 40.7% to 50.3%
Here we explain the most common causes why you can have a high hematocrit, but we remind you that to receive an accurate and adequate diagnosis you should consult a hematologist.
Dehydration
Dehydration It is a common cause why the percentage of red blood cells in our body increases. If you drink little water each day, live in a very hot area and don’t hydrate properly or engage in physical activity but don’t replenish fluids, this is likely the reason.
To know the signs that indicate that our body needs fluid, we invite you to read our article how to know that I am dehydrated.
Congenital heart disease
The congenital heart disease, which is usually detected during pregnancy or at birth, is one of the reasons why the hematocrit is high. In this case, the measures to be followed and the treatment will depend on the general health of the baby, if there are other conditions present and of course on the evaluation of the specialists.
If as an adult you suffer from this condition, it is very likely that your percentage of red blood cells will be altered in blood tests.
Erythrocytosis or excessive increase in red blood cells
An excess in the production of red blood cells is not as such a pathology but rather it is a symptom of some other underlying condition. If the hematologist determines that erythrocytosis is present then it will be necessary detect the cause whereby the bone marrow is producing more blood cells than usual.
Cor pulmonale
The pathology known as cor pulmonale refers to an insufficiency present in the right side of the heart, that can be generated when we suffer from prolonged arterial hypertension in the right ventricle of this organ and also in the pulmonary arteries.
But this condition can also occur when there are certain lung conditions, so a detailed review by a specialist will be essential in the event that this condition is the cause of the high hematocrit.
Other causes of high hematocrit
In addition to the conditions mentioned above, there are other causes for which hematocrit levels may be higher than normal, including:
- Pulmonary fibrosis.
- Low level of oxygen in the blood.
- Polycythemia vera, a bone marrow condition that increases the number of red blood cells in the blood.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.