Why would your red blood count be low?

As a hematologist, I specialize in the study and treatment of blood and its disorders. When it comes to a low red blood cell (RBC) count, also known as anemia, there are several potential causes that can lead to this condition. Here's a detailed explanation: 1. Blood or red cell loss: This can occur due to various reasons such as acute blood loss from injuries, surgery, or chronic blood loss from conditions like peptic ulcers or menstruation in women. 2. Decreased red blood cell production: The bone marrow, which is responsible for producing RBCs, can be affected by certain diseases and conditions that reduce its ability to make new cells. This can be due to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid, or it can be caused by diseases such as bone marrow failure, leukemia, or cancer treatments that affect the marrow. 3. Trauma: Severe injuries can lead to a rapid loss of RBCs, which can temporarily lower the count. 4. **Chronic inflammatory disease or condition**: Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect the body's ability to produce RBCs. It's important to note that a low RBC count is a symptom, not a diagnosis in itself. To determine the underlying cause, a healthcare provider will typically perform a thorough examination and may order additional tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels, and a bone marrow biopsy if necessary.

Blood or red cell loss that occurs suddenly or over time and diseases and conditions that decrease red blood cell production in the bone marrow will result in a low RBC count. Some causes of a low RBC count (anemia) include: Trauma. ... Chronic inflammatory disease or condition.