RDW

Red Cell Distribution Width

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What's

RDW

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) is a test used to check the differences in size and volume of your red blood cells. These cells, which are the most common type in your body, carry oxygen from your lungs to all other parts of your body. Usually, red blood cells are similar in size, but some conditions can cause them to vary. The RDW test is part of a routine complete blood count (CBC) and offers important information about this variation. A higher RDW value means there's a bigger difference in red blood cell size, while a lower RDW value indicates more consistency.

If Your Levels Are High

A high RDW value means that your red blood cells are coming in different sizes, which can happen when your body is dealing with certain health issues. This might be because you're not getting enough important nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or folate, which help make red blood cells. It could also be a sign of other problems like anemia, liver disease, or issues with your bone marrow. Sometimes, taking certain medications, drinking alcohol, or having long-term inflammation can also make your RDW higher.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of RDW may not be directly noticeable, as they often align with the symptoms of the underlying condition causing the variation in red blood cell size. These could include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale or yellowish skin, and irregular heartbeats.

If Your Levels are Low

A low RDW value means that your red blood cells are more consistent in size and volume than usual. This can be a sign of healthy bone marrow producing red blood cells efficiently. However, it could also be related to certain conditions like chronic illnesses or iron deficiency anemia. Some medications, such as those used to treat anemia, might also contribute to lower RDW levels.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of RDW are typically not distinct and may not be noticeable, as they often overlap with symptoms of the underlying conditions that cause the low RDW.

See References

Test for

Red Cell Distribution Width

CBC w/ Diff

Access Med Labs

Whole Blood

The complete blood count (CBC) provides a general hematologic assessment. It serves as a screening test for numerous disease states including anemia, inflammatory processes, and leukemia. This test includes the white blood cell differential.

CBC with Differential and Platelets

Access Labcorp Draw

Whole Blood

The CBC with differential provides a broad assessment of blood cells. It evaluates a patient's overall health and screens for a variety of diseases and conditions.

CBC

Access Med Labs

Whole Blood

The complete blood count (CBC) provides a general hematologic assessment. It serves as a screening test for numerous disease states including anemia, inflammatory processes, and leukemia.

CBC

Access Labcorp Draw

Whole Blood

The CBC without differential evaluates a patient's overall health and screens for a variety of diseases and conditions.

CBC w/ Diff

Boston Heart Diagnostics

Whole Blood

The CBC with differential analyzes blood cells to evaluate a patient's overall health and to screen for a variety of diseases and conditions. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners are unable to order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

CONTENTS

What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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