Hematocrit Levels

A hematocrit level is concerning when it falls below or rises above the normal range. According to the American Red Cross, in adults, normal hematocrit levels for men are typically between 41% and 50%, and for women, the normal range is 36% % to 44%. Routine blood testing can help identify if your levels are outside these ranges, which may signal issues like fewer red blood cells (anemia) or other blood cell disorders.

If your hematocrit is low, you have fewer red blood cells than needed to carry enough oxygen throughout the body. This can cause fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms of a lack of red blood cells.

A safe hematocrit level is one that falls within the normal range for your age, sex, and race. For adult men, this range is 41%—50%, and for women, it’s 36%—48%.