What causes high RDW and low RBC?

high RDW

High RDW and low RBC can be caused by many reasons.

If your RDW is in between 11.6 % and 14 % and your RBC is in between 4.5 mil/uL and 5.5 mil/uL then you need not worry as these are the normal ranges for RDW and RBC respectively. But if your levels are lesser or greater than the above values, then there may be some problem in your body.

Important - Go to the end of this article and read how our patients treated their abnormal RDW levels 

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Normal range of RDW : 11.6 - 14 %

Ideal values of RDW depending on age :
Age Ideal RDW value
<5 years 11.833
5-10 years 12.071
10-15 years 12.314
15-20 years 12.562
20-25 years 12.814
25-30 years 13.072
30-35 years 13.335
35-40 years 13.603
40-45 years 13.876
45-50 years 13.87
50-55 years 13.865
55-60 years 13.86
60-70 years 13.855
70-80 years 13.849
80-90 years 13.843
90-100 years 13.837
>100 years 13.831

*Ideal values are calculated based on our database of patient records

If you want your blood test report to be interpreted by RDW specialist, then you can upload your report. Our RDW expert will provide you with the most accurate interpretation of your blood test results and treatment within 12 hours. Upload blood test report now

1,37,160

Total number of patients treated

RDW treatment - Click to read 10 GOLDEN ARTICLES on Anemia

Some examples of conditions that increase or decrease RDW levels include:

  • Crohn's disease
  • Chronic liver disease
  • Thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder
  • An iron or vitamin deficiency
  • Heart disease

If you want your blood test report to be interpreted by RDW specialist, you can upload your report. Our RDW expert will provide you with the most accurate interpretation of your blood test results and treatment within 12 hours. Upload blood test report now

Normal range of RBC : 4.5 - 5.5 mil/uL

Ideal values of RBC depending on age :
Age Ideal RBC value
<5 years 4.59
5-10 years 4.682
10-15 years 4.776
15-20 years 4.872
20-25 years 4.97
25-30 years 5.07
30-35 years 5.172
35-40 years 5.276
40-45 years 5.382
45-50 years 5.49
50-55 years 5.487
55-60 years 5.485
60-70 years 5.483
70-80 years 5.481
80-90 years 5.479
90-100 years 5.477
>100 years 5.475
Chest pain

Can Low or High RDW cause Heart Problems?

Read on to know how abnormal RDW affects heart

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High RDW and low RBC can be caused by a lot of reasons. If you take RDW and RBC blood tests and the results are higher than 14 % for RDW and lower than 4.5 mil/uL for RBC, your physician may recommend more tests to figure out the problem. You might also get these tests if your physician thinks you have some other disease.

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How the RDW and RBC Tests Are Done :

If your doctor wants RDW and RBC tests on you, you may need to go through these tests. During the RDW and RBC blood tests, a pathologist will put a needle into your veins and take out a small quantity of blood. A pathologist is a physician in the medical field who thoroughly studies the causes and effects of disease. Within a few hours you will get your RDW and RBC Test reports by your pathologist.

Medical References

Symptoms
Dr. Hernandez - Pathologist

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Hernandez, MD

BOARD CERTIFIED PATHOLOGIST

Laboratory Medicine Specialist

View Full Profile & Credentials →

Laboratory Expertise:

  • Clinical Pathology Certification
  • 15+ years lab analysis experience
  • Specializes in test interpretation
  • Medical Advisory Board Member
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Read full disclaimer.

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