Hematocrit: norm in children and adults

Hematocrit is one of the indicators of a general blood test. He speaks about the ratio of the volumes of erythrocytes and plasma. This parameter is important, since it displays excess or deficiency of red blood cells. For such an indicator as hematocrit, the norm differs in representatives of the female and male, in children.

The hematocrit displays the respiratory function of red blood cells. They contain hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to cells and tissues. Our blood contains plasma (60%), and the rest is white blood cells (white cells), platelets (flat blood plates) and red blood cells. Hematocrit (norm) is a certain ratio of red cells and blood plasma.

Why determine hematocrit

Sometimes we do not even suspect that we are ill: we feel fine and do not complain. And the disease in the meantime progresses and captures the body. It is better not to treat the disease, but to warn. And at an early stage, various tests provide invaluable services. The detailed blood tests allow you to assess health and indicate the right direction for examination by narrow specialists. If in the results of the analysis for such an indicator as hematocrit, the norm - this indicates that red blood cells are enough. For a general picture, look at a set of blood indicators (hemoglobin, color markers, etc.). Decipher the analysis can only a professional.

Fence analysis

The analysis is taken from the vein (in small children - from the finger) into a special capillary, which has 100 equal parts. It is placed in a special centrifuge for an hour and a half. The device rotates, and the erythrocytes settle to the bottom of the capillary to a level that will be the information indicator.

Hematocrit: norm

For women, the values are considered to be 35-42%, for men - 40-47%, after 45 years - up to 50%. In newborns, the rate is higher by 20% than in adults, hematocrit (norm) in children aged 1 year - 5 years below the adult values by 8-10%.

If the indicator is higher than the established level, then there is a threat of erythrocytosis (a significant increase in red blood cells in the blood). This phenomenon requires clarification of the reasons. Elevated hematocrit may also indicate erythremia, which is a fairly serious disease. It is characterized by a rapid increase in erythrocytes in the bone marrow. In addition, a high hematocrit can mean oxygen starvation or kidney disease. Burns, peritonitis, diabetes, leukemia, thrombosis, even increased sweating can result in an increase in hematocrit.

Hematocrit in the blood reflects its density. A low figure is an excuse for excitement. It is observed when:

• Severe bleeding;
• All forms of anemia;
• Small formation of red bodies in the bone marrow;
• Rapid destruction of erythrocytes in plasma;
• Hyperproteinemia;
• Pregnancy;
• Hyperhydration (diluted blood).

Do not give in to panic by studying independently developed blood tests. The information contained in them is not yet a diagnosis. If the hematocrit size deviates from the normal values, this does not mean that you are seriously ill. The volume and ratio of erythrocytes to plasma is only a part of the clinical picture. And the analysis can be completely deciphered only by specialists who look not at one indicator, but on their totality. Be healthy!