What to Do When Red Blood Cell Count Is Low

If your red blood cell (RBC) count is below normal levels—especially when accompanied by low hemoglobin—it typically indicates a condition known as anemia. Anemia isn't a disease in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying health issue. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment and long-term recovery.

Common Causes of Low Red Blood Cell Count

Anemia can stem from a wide range of factors, and understanding the specific type helps guide appropriate therapy. One of the most prevalent forms, especially among young women, is iron-deficiency anemia. This often results from heavy menstrual bleeding, which leads to chronic blood and iron loss. In such cases, oral or intravenous iron supplementation usually leads to significant improvement in hemoglobin levels and overall energy.

Nutritional Deficiencies in Older Adults

In older adults, nutritional anemia is frequently observed. As people age, dietary habits may change—some may consume less meat, leafy greens, or other essential nutrients. This can lead to deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate (folic acid), both critical for red blood cell production. Once diagnosed through blood tests, these deficiencies are often corrected with targeted supplements, resulting in a rapid rebound in RBC counts and reduced fatigue.

Serious Underlying Conditions Linked to Anemia

Not all anemia is due to simple nutritional gaps. Some more serious medical conditions can also impair red blood cell production or increase their destruction. These include:

• Aplastic anemia – where bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells
• Hemolytic anemia – where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely
• Leukemia – a type of blood cancer that disrupts normal blood cell formation

In these cases, treating the primary illness is essential. With proper medical intervention—such as immunosuppressive therapy, blood transfusions, or chemotherapy—many patients experience notable improvements in their red blood cell levels.

Diagnostic Criteria for Anemia

Medically, anemia is diagnosed based on hemoglobin concentration. According to clinical guidelines:

For adult men, a hemoglobin level below 120 g/L is considered anemic. For adult women, the threshold is slightly lower at 110 g/L. These benchmarks help doctors determine whether further investigation or treatment is needed.

If you're experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, or shortness of breath, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. A simple blood test can confirm whether low RBCs are the culprit—and set you on the path to feeling better.