Why does a low red blood cell count or hemoglobin value mean?
A low hemoglobin or hematocrit might mean you are anemic. Hemoglobin is a molecule of protein, but also includes a component consisting of iron. If your iron intake is low or if you have chronic bleeding, your hematocrit and hemoglobin will decrease. This requires prompt medical attention. You might see a decreased red count in sickle cell anemia and other hemoglobin abnormalities. These are hereditary conditions and include hemoglobin S (sickle cell anemia), hemoglobin C, and hemoglobin E (often seen in Southeast Asians). Another type of hemoglobin problem is thalassemia (or Cooley’s anemia) often seen in individuals from Mediterranean heritage. What does it mean if you have a low or high platelet count? Platelets are cells that circulate in the blood whose main function is to initiate the clotting of blood. Abnormal platelet counts may be seen in a variety of diseases or medical conditions. Decreased platelet count may result from certain drugs or diseases that suppress bone marrow c
