A red cell distribution width (RDW) analysis determines the difference in size and volume of red blood cells (erythrocytes). Red blood cells transport air to all the cells in your body because you don’t feel like it. Your cells need oxygen to grow, create new cells, and stay awake.
Normally, your red blood cells have about the same volume; an increase in RDW means there is a big difference in the volume of your smallest and largest red blood cells. This can be a symptom of disease.
Other names: RDW-SD, red blood cell dispersion width.
What is it used for?
The RDW blood test is often considered part of a complete blood picture (CBC). It is a test that determines a number of different parts of the blood, including red blood cells.The RDW test is usually used to support the diagnosis of anemia. This is a condition in which red blood cells are unable to transport enough air to the rest of the body.
The RDW test can be used in conjunction with other tests to diagnose other disorders, including thalassemia, a genetic disorder that can cause severe anemia.
Why do I need the RDW test?
It is quite possible that your doctor has determined your absolute blood count with the RDW test as part of a simple examination.
- Symptoms of anemia, including impotence, dizziness, pale skin, cold hands and feet.
- Family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other hereditary blood flow conditions
- Chronic diseases such as Crohn’s disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, etc.
- Dietary arm of iron and other minerals
- Long-term infection
- Excessive blood loss from trauma or surgical procedures.
What happens in the RDW test?
A health care employee draws a blood sample from a vein in the arm with a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube or vial. Some pressure can be felt when the needle is dislodged or dislodged. This process usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special training is required.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
There are no sufficient risks associated with blood testing. There may be a slight soreness or bruising in the area where the needle is inserted, but most signs disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
RDW results help your doctor to understand for sure how your red blood cells vary in volume and size; even if your RDW results are normal, there are some diseases that need to be treated. Therefore, the physician will usually look at the RDW results along with the results of other blood tests. Combined test results give a more complete picture of the red blood cell situation and can help diagnose all kinds of disorders, such as
- Iron deficiency
- Anemia of various kinds
- Thalassemia
- Sickle cell anemia.
A high RDW result can be a symptom of other disorders such as
- Chronic liver disease
- Heart disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- kidney disease
- Cancer, especially colorectal cancer.
Doctors probably need to do additional research to make a diagnosis.
What else should I know about beard cells? distribution width test?
If test results indicate that you have a chronic blood disorder, such as anemia, you may be prescribed a treatment project aimed at increasing the amount of air available to transport red blood cells. Depending on your specific condition, your doctor may recommend iron supplements, medications, and/or adjustments to your menu.
Consult your own physician or adjust your personal nutrition plan before taking supplements.
With permission of MedlinePlus from the National Library of Medicine.
