Blood Tests for Anemia

What is Anemia?

Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to its tissues. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells (RBCs), and low levels can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and dizziness. Anemia can result from blood loss, poor diet, chronic diseases, or deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid. It may be temporary or chronic, and its severity can range from mild to severe. Proper diagnosis of anemia can be achieved through blood tests and a medical evaluation.

What is a blood test for anemia?

A blood test for anemia is used to check if you have too few red blood cells or low hemoglobin levels, which means your body may not be getting enough oxygen. The most common tests are the CBC, Hemoglobin, and Hematocrit, which provide important information about your red blood cells.

Types of blood tests for anemia 

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

The CBC is the most common test for diagnosing anemia. It measures different components of your blood, including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. It also provides the MCV, which indicates the average size of red blood cells, which helps to identify anemia. If the red blood cell count, hemoglobin, or hematocrit is low, it indicates anemia.

Hemoglobin Test

The hemoglobin blood test measures the amount of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Low hemoglobin levels indicate that the body isn't receiving eno-ugh oxygen, a symptom of anemia. A hemoglobin level below 13 g/dL in men and 12 g/dL in women is considered low, indicating a deficiency in hemoglobin levels. 

Hematocrit Test

The hematocrit test measures the percentage of blood that is composed of red blood cells. A low hematocrit level indicates anemia. The normal range of hematocrit is 38% to 50% in men and 35% to 45% in women. The test measures the amount of oxygen-carrying blood in your body. Hematocrit is influenced by hydration, blood loss, and overall health. 

4. Peripheral Blood Smear

A peripheral blood smear involves spreading a drop of blood on a glass slide, staining it, and examining it under a microscope. This test looks at the shape, size, and appearance of RBCs, WBCs, and platelets. In anemia, red blood cells may appear small, large, pale, or misshapen. The test helps doctors to identify the type and possible cause of anemia, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or sickle cell disease. 

5. Reticulocyte Count

The reticulocyte count test measures the number of young, immature red blood cells (reticulocytes) in the blood. This blood test for anemia determines whether the bone marrow is producing red blood cells at an appropriate rate. A low count in anemia suggests that the bone marrow isn't producing enough RBCs, which could be due to a deficiency or a marrow disorder. A high count indicates that the body is responding to blood loss or anemia by producing more red blood cells.

When would you need a blood test for anemia?

You may need a blood test for anemia if you have symptoms or are at risk for low red blood cell levels. Here are common situations:

1. If you have symptoms of Anemia:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Cold hands and feet
• Headaches or difficulty concentrating

2. During routine health checkups:

Doctors often include anemia tests in regular health screenings for:

• Women (due to menstruation or pregnancy)
• Older adults
• People with chronic illnesses

3, If you have risk factors or conditions:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Poor diet or malnutrition
• Chronic kidney disease or liver problems
• Recent blood loss (injury, surgery, ulcers)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Cancer or chemotherapy
• Family history of anemia or blood disorders

Test Details

How to prepare for a blood test for anemia?

A blood test for anemia is simple; like other blood tests, you don't require much preparation. Here’s what you should know: 

• Fasting- No, fasting is not required before the blood test for anemia.
• Tell your doctor about whether you take any medications or supplements, if you have any infections or illnesses, and if you are pregnant or menstruating heavily. 
• Drink water- Before sample collection, stay well hydrated to make the blood collection process smoother and easier.
• Wear loose-fitting sleeves- This makes it easier to roll up your sleeve for the blood draw.
• Stay Relaxed- Stay calm and relaxed; stress or anxiety can affect blood pressure and make the blood drawing process difficult. 

What is the procedure for the blood test for anemia?

The procedure for the blood test for anemia is simple and quick. Here is what you can expect during the test- 

1. The healthcare provider will ask you to roll up your sleeve. The technician will clean the area on your arm with an alcohol solution. 
2. He will use a sterile needle in the vein to draw the blood sample.
3. The process takes just a few minutes. You may feel a small pinch or sting.
4. After sample collection, he will remove the needle and put a cotton ball or bandage over the puncture site to stop bleeding. 
5. You can resume normal activities.
6. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. 
7. Results are available within 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will help you understand the meaning of test reports and will suggest the next steps.

Result and follow-up

When will the blood test for anemia test results be available?

In most cases, the blood test report for anemia is available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the laboratory and the type of test performed. The blood test for anemia results will be available online via WhatsApp, email, or the app. 

What is the normal range of blood tests for anemia?

The normal range for the most common blood tests used to detect anemia. Values may vary by lab, age, gender, and the procedure used to prepare the report.

1. Hemoglobin (Hb)

• Men: 13.8 - 17.2 g/dL
• Women: 12.1 - 15.1 g/dL
• Children: 11 - 16 g/dL

2. Hematocrit (Hct)

• Men: 40% - 50%
• Women: 35% -45%
• Children: 32% - 44%

3. Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

• Men: 4.7 - 6.1 million cells/mcL
• Women: 4.2 - 5.4 million cells/mcL
• Children: 4.1 - 5.5 million cells/mcL

4. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

• Normal Range: 80 - 100 fL

5. Serum Ferritin (Iron Storage)

• Men: 24 - 336 ng/mL
• Women: 11 - 307 ng/mL

What does the Anemia Blood test report indicate?

A blood test for anemia helps show whether you have healthy red blood cells and whether your body is getting enough oxygen. Here's what the blood test for anemia results indicate:

1. Hemoglobin (Hb)

• Low Hb indicates anemia. It means the amount of oxygen your blood can carry.

2. Hematocrit (Hct)

• Low Hct confirms fewer red blood cells.

3. Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

• Measures how many red blood cells are in your blood. Low RBC count suggests anemia or bone marrow issues.

4. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

• What is the average size of your red blood cells?
  
  
• Low MCV = small cells, which indicates iron deficiency
• High MCV = large cell size, which indicates B12 or folate deficiency

Causes of Anemia

Anemia happens when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to your tissues. There are many possible causes:

1. Blood Loss (Hemorrhage)

• Heavy menstrual periods
• Injury or surgery
• Internal bleeding (ulcers, hemorrhoids, stomach or colon cancer)
• Frequent blood donation

2. Low Red Blood Cell Production

• Iron deficiency 
• Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
• Chronic diseases: kidney disease, cancer, HIV
• Bone marrow disorders like aplastic anemia, leukemia
• Thyroid problems
• Genetic conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell anemia

3. Increased Red Blood Cell Destruction

• Hemolytic anemia
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus
• Certain infections
• Inherited conditions like sickle cell disease
• Side effects of medications

Other Factors

• Poor diet or malnutrition
• Alcohol use
• Pregnancy
• Chronic inflammation

FAQ’s

1. What blood test shows if one is anemic?

A complete blood count (CBC) is the primary blood test used to check for anemia. It measures red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, all of which can indicate the presence of anemia. Low levels of these values suggest anemia. 

2. What are five symptoms of anemia?

Five common symptoms of anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, dizziness, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. 

3. Does low RBC mean anemia?

Yes, a low red blood cell count (RBC) can indicate anemia. Anemia is a condition where there are not enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen throughout the body.

A note from Redcliffe Labs

Anemia occurs when you don't have enough red blood cells or when they don't work properly. Some people are born with it, but most develop it over time. That's why it's important to notice changes in how you feel. Everyone feels tired sometimes, but if you're feeling extremely tired for several days, even after getting enough rest, it's a good idea to consult your doctor.

Care at Redcliffe Labs

To book your test, follow the steps below- 

1. Visit the official Redcliffe Labs website, redcliffelabs.com.
2. Search for the Anemia test in the search bar. 
3. Add to the card and fill in the required details. 
4. Complete the payment process online.
5. Your test is booked.

Note: You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.