Polycythemia or Dehydration

• Elevated Hematocrit Causes
  Excessive red blood cell production
  Relative increase due to low plasma volume (as seen in dehydration)
• Response to Hypoxia
  Adaptive Mechanism – Inhabitants of high altitudes or individuals with chronic lung disease may produce more red blood cells to compensate for reduced oxygen availability.
• Autoimmune/Inflammatory Processes
  Less Common Causes – Certain conditions may trigger reactive polycythemia, though this occurs infrequently.
• Life-Phase Considerations
  Adults – High hematocrit may increase the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular strain.
  Newborns – Naturally higher hematocrit levels occur at birth and gradually normalize with age.

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Anemia

• Key Indicator:
  A low hematocrit is a primary marker of anemia.

         Potential Causes:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Chronic disease
• Autoimmune hemolysis
• Blood loss

Overhydration

• Effect on Hematocrit:
  Excess fluid in the bloodstream can dilute red blood cells, lowering hematocrit levels.

Chronic Infections or Inflammatory Conditions

• Impact on Red Blood Cell Production:
  Prolonged inflammation or infections may suppress red cell formation, contributing to low hematocrit.

Age Considerations

• Infants/Children:
  Normal hematocrit ranges differ from adults, and persistent low levels warrant further investigation.
• Elderly:
  Low hematocrit may contribute to fatigue and impaired oxygen delivery.

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