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Note that each number in parentheses [1, 2, 3, etc. RDW or red blood cell distribution width is a measure of how equal your red blood cells are in size.
It can help your doctor diagnose various blood-related disorders and diseases. In addition, it is also increased in seemingly unrelated disorders and diseases that nevertheless affect blood cell production and lifespan. These include inflammatory, autoimmune, liver, kidney, and heart disease. Keep reading to learn why having a high RDW is bad and how to improve your values.
A normal red blood cell is shaped like a disk with a depressed center. It is very flexible, which enables it to change shape — this is needed for a red blood cell to squeeze through the narrowest of blood vessels called capillaries [ 1 ].
Normally, red blood cells are relatively equal in shape and size. However, in some conditions and diseases, red blood cells can have a distorted shape or be smaller or larger than normal while still maintaining their core function oxygen and carbon dioxide transport [ 1 ]. Basically, it tells you how equal or unequal your red blood cells are in size. It is a part of a complete blood count, which also measures your hemoglobin , hematocrit , and red and white blood cell counts [ 2 , 3 ].
Low values mean that your red blood cells are roughly similar in size, which is normal and desirable. Higher values mean that your red blood cells are produced in different sizes. Your physician will also look into the mean corpuscular volume MCV test, which is also part of a CBC — to combine results and provide an accurate treatment recommendation.
Aplastic Anemia is a blood-related disorder where no more new blood cells are produced, including red blood cells. If your test results show low RDW levels, then there are no hematologic disorders or serious health issues. Providers Locations.
The RDW test can be done in any of the following locations across the U. To know the RDW test cost, refer to the first section of the article. Frequently Asked Questions. Will insurance cover my testing cost? No, insurance will not be covered in the billing. However, they will provide you a receipt for insurance reimbursement purposes. How should I book my appointment?
You can choose the most suitable provider from above and make an appointment by following the instructions mentioned by them. Can I cancel my lab test order? Yes, you can cancel your lab test order anytime before your testing. A refund will be initiated after deducting the cancellation fee.
However, cancellation is at the discretion of the provider. Do the providers offer result interpretations? Yes, a few providers may provide doctor consultation who will take you through the results and provide clarification if needed. What is a low RDW called?
What is the normal RDW level in the blood? What does a low RDW in a blood test mean? Which factors can reduce the RDW? Which diseases can reduce your RDW? What can I do to increase the RDW level in the blood? Which values are considered a low RDW level in the blood? Your cells require oxygen to remain healthy, grow and reproduce. Your RDW blood test results can be higher if your RBCs are smaller or larger than normal, which indicates that you have an underlying condition.
If the RDW value is outside the normal range, it can be a sign of a problem with body function, which may affect the flow of oxygen from the lungs to parts of your body. Even if you have normal RDW, you may have certain diseases.
Since a person with normal RDW can still have an underlying condition, doctors may take into consideration the results of other blood tests as well. An RDW blood test is typically used to diagnose anaemia and different conditions such as:.
Before you undergo an RDW blood test, you will be asked to fast by your doctor for a few hours, based on the other tests that you need to take.
Before the test, your doctor may give you special instructions. The test lasts typically for less than five minutes. The test is simple and quick.
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