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Hematology

Erythrocytes (RBC) Test

Red blood cells are the oxygen highway for your muscles and tissues. For active individuals and active individuals, monitoring erythrocyte levels provides insight into your aerobic capacity and recovery potential, helping you train smarter and perform at your peak.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Erythrocytes (RBC): what this test measures

This test measures the total number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) per volume of blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which binds oxygen and gives blood its red colour. The count provides information about your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.

Erythrocytes (RBC): why this value matters

An abnormal red blood cell count may indicate various health conditions. Low counts can be associated with anemia, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic disease, while high counts may be linked to dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders. Regular monitoring supports early detection of potential issues.

Erythrocytes (RBC): how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €16,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Erythrocytes (RBC): when is testing worthwhile?

Red blood cell counts are typically included in a complete blood count (CBC), which may be ordered as part of routine health screening, when investigating symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath, or for monitoring existing conditions.

Erythrocytes (RBC): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold hands and feet, headaches.

High Levels

Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, excessive sweating, joint pain, itchy skin, reddish complexion.

Erythrocytes (RBC): lifestyle and this value

Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate to support healthy red blood cell production. Stay well hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. If you experience persistent fatigue, consult a healthcare professional.

Erythrocytes (RBC): frequently asked questions

What can cause a low red blood cell count?

A low red blood cell count may be associated with iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, or bone marrow disorders. Your healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause.

Can lifestyle changes improve my red blood cell count?

In many cases, dietary adjustments such as increasing iron-rich foods, vitamin B12, and folate can support healthy red blood cell production. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking also help. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Whoop

Whoop

A 45-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count Bilirubin (Direct) Bilirubin (Indirect) Cholesterol/HDL Ratio Non-HDL Cholesterol LDL/HDL Ratio
€499,-
Health Checkups

InsideTracker

A 35-biomarker performance and longevity panel inspired by InsideTracker Ultimate — covering heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count HOMA-IR Cholesterol/HDL Ratio Non-HDL Cholesterol LDL/HDL Ratio
€399,-

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
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Erythrocytes (RBC)

€16,-