What is Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)?

Red cell distribution width (RDW) measures how much variation there is in the size of the red blood cells in your blood specimen.‍Healthy red blood cells are usually similar in size, and having too much variation especially in the context of anemia (low haemoglobin) can help us determine causes of red blood cell disorders.

What does it assess?

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) measures the variation in size of red blood cells (RBCs) in a blood sample.‍RDW is commonly used as a diagnostic tool in conjunction with other tests, such as the RBC count and mean corpuscular volume (MCV), to help identify conditions like anemia, nutritional deficiencies, and bone marrow dysfunction.

How do I optimize my Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) levels?

DW is often elevated in cases of anemia caused by deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients is crucial.‍A diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate can help normalize RDW levels. Dehydration can lead to changes in RBC shape and size, which can increase RDW.‍Staying well-hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day supports overall blood health. Healthy bone marrow is essential for producing uniformly sized RBCs.‍Regular physical activity, adequate rest, and avoiding toxins that can harm bone marrow can support healthy RBC production and keep RDW levels within normal range.

What do high and low Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) levels mean?

High RDW is often seen in conditions such as iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, mixed anemia, or bone marrow disorders. It can also be an early sign of chronic inflammatory conditions or other health issues that disrupt normal RBC production.‍A low RDW typically suggests that red blood cells are more uniform in size, which is generally a sign of stable RBC production and normal blood health. It may be observed in healthy individuals or in conditions where there is a consistent RBC population.