A high red blood cell count is an increase in oxygen-carrying cells in your bloodstream. Red blood cells transport oxygen from your lungs to tissues throughout your body. A high red blood cell count can result from a condition that limits your oxygen supply or a condition that directly increases red blood cell production.
The definition of a high red blood cell count varies from one medical practice to another. A normal range in adults is generally considered to be 4.35 to 5.65 million red blood cells per microliter (mcL) of blood for men and 3.92 to 5.13 million red blood cells per mcL of blood for women. In children, the threshold for high red blood cell count varies with age and sex.
High red blood cell count may be caused by low oxygen levels, kidney disease or other problems.
A high red blood cell count is usually found when your doctor has ordered tests to help diagnose a condition you have. Talk to your doctor about what your test results mean. A high red blood cell count and results from other tests may indicate the cause of your illness. Or your doctor may suggest additional tests to monitor your condition.
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Dec. 19, 2018Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/high-red-blood-cell-count/basics/definition/SYM-20050858