What Does Hematocrit Mean?

The hematocrit, also known by several other names, is the volume percentage of red blood cells in blood, measured as part of a blood test. The measurement depends on the number and size of red blood cells. It is normally 40.7%–50.3% for males and 36.1%–44.3% for females.

What do hematocrit levels indicate?

A hematocrit test measures how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells. Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can indicate a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions.

What does an elevated hematocrit mean?

If you've taken a hematocrit test and hematocrit is high, this means that you have more red blood cells than what's considered to be healthy. High hematocrit levels could indicate underlying medical conditions like: Dehydration. Carbon monoxide poisoning. Congenital heart disease.