1. What is Hematocrit?

Hematocrit (HCT) is the volume percentage of red blood cells in blood. It is an important measure in a complete blood count (CBC) test that indicates the proportion of blood composed of red blood cells.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( RBC \) — Red Blood Cell count (10^6/μL)
• \( MCV \) — Mean Corpuscular Volume (fL)

Explanation: This formula calculates hematocrit by multiplying the red blood cell count by the average volume of red blood cells, then dividing by 10 to convert to percentage.

3. Importance of Hematocrit Calculation

Details: Hematocrit measurement is crucial for diagnosing anemia, polycythemia, dehydration, and other blood disorders. It helps assess oxygen-carrying capacity of blood and monitor response to treatments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter RBC count in 10^6/μL and MCV in fL. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal hematocrit values?
A: Normal ranges vary by age and sex. Typically: Men 40-54%, Women 36-48%. Values outside these ranges may indicate health issues.

Q2: Why is hematocrit important?
A: It helps diagnose blood disorders, assess hydration status, and monitor conditions affecting red blood cell production or destruction.

Q3: How does hematocrit relate to hemoglobin?
A: Hematocrit is approximately three times the hemoglobin value. Both are important indicators of red blood cell mass.

Q4: What factors affect hematocrit levels?
A: Altitude, hydration status, certain medications, pregnancy, and various medical conditions can all influence hematocrit values.

Q5: When should I be concerned about my hematocrit?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if your hematocrit is significantly outside the normal range or if you experience symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.