What does low Rdw mean in a blood test?

A low RDW (below 10.2%) means that the red blood cells vary very little in size. One reason for a low RDW level is macrocytic anemia. Another cause of a low RDW level is microcytic anemia.

Is it bad to have a low RDW?

A low RDW means your red blood cells are all about the same size. A high RDW means you have both very small and very large red blood cells. You may also have a “normal” RDW. A normal RDW range is 12.2%–16.1% for women and 11.8%–14.5% for men.

How can I lower my RDW levels?

When MCV is low, RDW would increase more significantly. When iron therapy is given, RDW would elevate first and then gradually reduce at the normal level. To diagnose small cell and low pigment anaemia. To classify anaemia.

What is the MCHC in a CBC blood test?

Doctors use information from the CBC to calculate your MCH. A similar measure to MCH is something doctors call “mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration” (MCHC). MCHC checks the average amount of hemoglobin in a group of red blood cells. Your doctor may use both measurements to help in a diagnosis of anemia.

Why do I need a colonoscopy if I’m anemic?

Serum ferritin of 100 ng/mL or less is a reasonable indicator for prompt colonoscopy among men with unexplained anemia. Older patients with unexplained anemia are often referred for colonoscopy as a first step, but that practice makes sense only when the anemia is caused by iron deficiency.

Is coffee bad for anemia?

Summary: Healthy people at a low risk of iron deficiency should not need to limit coffee and caffeine. However, those at risk of iron deficiency are advised to avoid coffee and caffeine at mealtimes and wait at least one hour after a meal before consumption.