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Hematology

Erythrocytes (RBC)

An erythrocyte (red blood cell) count measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body and transporting carbon dioxide back for exhalation.

Doctor's Assessment Included

What It Measures

This test measures the total number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) per volume of blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which binds oxygen and gives blood its red colour. The count provides information about your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.

Why It Matters

An abnormal red blood cell count may indicate various health conditions. Low counts can be associated with anemia, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic disease, while high counts may be linked to dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders. Regular monitoring supports early detection of potential issues.

When to Test

Red blood cell counts are typically included in a complete blood count (CBC), which may be ordered as part of routine health screening, when investigating symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath, or for monitoring existing conditions.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold hands and feet, headaches.

High Levels

Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, excessive sweating, joint pain, itchy skin, reddish complexion.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate to support healthy red blood cell production. Stay well hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. If you experience persistent fatigue, consult a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can cause a low red blood cell count?
A low red blood cell count may be associated with iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, or bone marrow disorders. Your healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause.
Can lifestyle changes improve my red blood cell count?
In many cases, dietary adjustments such as increasing iron-rich foods, vitamin B12, and folate can support healthy red blood cell production. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking also help. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

InsideTracker

A 36-biomarker performance and longevity panel inspired by InsideTracker Ultimate — covering heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Magnesium (Intracellular) Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€399,-

Whoop

A 44-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Omega-3 Index Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-

Erythrocytes (RBC)

€16,-