Blood count
RDW
Also known as: Red Cell Distribution Width
What it means
How much your red blood cells vary in size. High RDW is an early clue to early iron, B12, or folate deficiency — often before Hb drops.
Typical normal range
11.5–14.5%
Reference ranges vary by lab, age, sex, and pregnancy. Always check the range on your own report.
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Related terms in Blood count
Haemoglobin
The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around your body. Low Hb (anaemia) often causes tiredness and breathlessness.
WBC
Your immune system's fighters. High means infection or inflammation; very low can mean your body's defences are weak.
Platelets
Cells that clump together to stop bleeding when you cut yourself. Low platelets means easier bruising.
MCV
Mean Corpuscular Volume — the average size of your red blood cells. Small (low MCV) often points to iron-deficiency anaemia; large (high MCV) often points to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
CBC
The full blood count panel — measures red cells, white cells, platelets and their properties. The most common baseline blood test in India.
RBC
The count of your red blood cells (millions per µL). Low RBC often points to anaemia; high RBC can point to dehydration or other issues.
This is a plain-language explanation for patients, not clinical advice. AI can be wrong. Always confirm with your doctor.