The red blood cell count is an important test because the number of red blood cells (RBCs) you have can affect how much oxygen your tissues receive.
Fatigue and shortness of breath can be symptoms of either a low RBC count or a high RBC count.
Certain medical conditions, dietary habits, and medications can all affect your RBC count.
A red blood cell count is a blood test that your doctor uses to find out how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. It’s also known as an erythrocyte count.
The test is important because RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your body’s tissues. The number of RBCs you have can affect how much oxygen your tissues receive. Your tissues need oxygen to function effectively.
Symptoms of an abnormal count:
If your red blood cell count is either too high or too low, you could experience accompanying symptoms and complications.
If you have a low RBC count, symptoms could include:
fatigue
shortness of breath
feeling dizzy, weak, or lightheaded, particularly when you change positions quickly
increased heart rate
headaches
pale skin
If you have a high RBC count, you could experience symptoms such as:
fatigue
shortness of breath
joint pain
tenderness in the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
itching skin, particularly after a shower or bath
sleep disturbance
If you experience symptoms of either a low or high RBC count, your doctor can order a simple RBC count.
