{"id":197826,"date":"2024-02-23T08:44:35","date_gmt":"2024-02-23T08:44:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/?p=197826"},"modified":"2026-08-07T09:48:03","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T09:48:03","slug":"low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Low Red Cell Distribution Width in Blood (RDW) &amp; How To Intrepret It"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><head><meta http-equiv=\"Content-Type\" content=\"text\/html; charset=utf-8\">\n<\/head><body><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a78835ea5937\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a78835ea5937\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Red_Cell_Distribution_Width_RDW_Test\" >Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) Test<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Interpreting_RDW_Results\" >Interpreting RDW Results<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Low_Red_Cell_Distribution_Width\" >Low Red Cell Distribution Width<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Other_Important_Blood_Test_Indicators\" >Other Important Blood Test Indicators<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Management_of_Low_RDW\" >Management of Low RDW<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/low-red-cell-distribution-width-in-blood-interpreting-your-blood-test-results\/#References\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n    <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/channel-health-talk\"\n       class=\"pe-healthtalk-banner\"\n       style=\"position:relative; display:block; margin:10px; border-radius:10px; border-bottom:2px solid #117B77; overflow:hidden;\">\n        <span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"position:absolute; left:0; bottom:0; width:2px; height:50%; background:#10847e;\"><\/span>\n        <img alt=\"Join Health Talk by PharmEasy on WhatsApp\"\n             src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PEhealthtalk-1.png\"\n             style=\"width:100%; display:block; border-radius:10px;\">\n    <\/a>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding blood test results is essential for getting the right care and maintaining good health. Red cell distribution width (RDW) is an important aspect that can provide clues about your overall well-being.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, you will learn about what RDW is, why it is measured, how to interpret your RDW results, and the potential influence of these results on your health. Together with other blood test indicators, RDW may help you and your healthcare provider come up with a comprehensive management plan tailored to your specific health needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fact-box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fact-box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fact-box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>Did you know?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Low red cell distribution width (RDW) in blood is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular events. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4261384\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">source: PMC<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RDW is associated with inflammation, as indicated by an elevated C-reactive protein level. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3387573\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">source: PMC<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RDW results are usually evaluated in conjunction with other blood tests to provide a more complete picture of red blood cells. <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">source: medlineplus.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RDW is a measure of heterogeneity in the size of circulating erythrocytes. <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000578.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">source: medlineplus.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RDW results help diagnose conditions like iron deficiency, anemia, thalassemia, and sickle cell anemia. <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">source: medlineplus.gov<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Red_Cell_Distribution_Width_RDW_Test\"><\/span><strong>Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) Test<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>RDW helps in checking the state of your red blood cells.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is RDW?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a measure of the difference in size and volume of your red blood cells<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>. It\u2019s part of a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/diagnostics\/profile\/complete-blood-count-cbc-408\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">complete blood count (CBC)<\/a><\/strong>. This routine blood test gives us a picture of your overall health. RDW is key to detecting possible blood disorders and tracking existing illnesses. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Is The RDW Test done?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>RDW tests aim to help detect and keep track of certain health issues. Working with other blood test checks, RDW helps in finding out if you have the following<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Anaemia<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28164513\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deficiency of iron, vitamin B12, or folate\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thalassaemia\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ongoing liver or kidney disease\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diabetes mellitus\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heart failure\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Do You Prepare for the Test?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting ready for an RDW test is simple. No need to fast or make any other special changes. Just go by your healthcare provider\u2019s orders before the test. \u00a0<\/p><div id=\"sfa_container_197826\" class=\"sfa_container\" style=\"display:none\"><div class=\"sfa_overlay\"><\/div><button id=\"sfa_btn_197826\" class=\"sfa_btn\">Show Full Article<\/button><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Interpreting_RDW_Results\"><\/span><strong>Interpreting RDW Results<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Understanding RDW Ranges\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>RDW values are given as a percent. They tell us about the sizes of your red blood cells<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32965812\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>. For adults, the normal range is between 11.5% and 15.4%. This can change based on the laboratory and instrument used. RDW ranges come in three types: normal, high, and low<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Normal range:<\/strong> This says all your red blood cells are the same size and shape.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High range:<\/strong> High RDW means bigger size changes. It points to possible health problems, like anaemia<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup> or a lack of nutrients.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Low range:<\/strong> A low RDW is often seen as normal. A low RDW doesn\u2019t mean any blood problems.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Factors Affecting RDW<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many things may affect RDW levels. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Lack of water in the body<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kjcls.org\/journal\/view.html?doi=10.15324\/kjcls.2017.49.3.227\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lifestyle habits, like diet, physical activities, and sleep<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26018095\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some drugs, like blood thinners or antiviral drugs.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote doc-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Research has demonstrated that RDW is linked to a bad outcome in individuals with multiple myeloma and lung cancer<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC12098219\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. Additionally, it may predict cancer in those who have lost weight inadvertently<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4591771\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<cite><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/legal\/editorial-policy\/dr-siddharth-gupta-73\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Dr. Siddharth Gupta, BAMS, MD (Ayu)<\/strong><\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Low_Red_Cell_Distribution_Width\"><\/span><strong>Low Red Cell Distribution Width<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Causes of low RDW<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Low RDW mainly shows that your red blood cells are the same in size and shape. \u00a0Some factors might fake a low RDW. These are as follows.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Potential Risks and Complications: <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Low RDW doesn\u2019t directly cause trouble. But conditions tied to low RDW might impact your health. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Problems from unchecked anaemia: <\/strong>Not taking care of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/7-things-you-need-to-avoid-in-anaemia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">anaemia<\/a><\/strong> may lead to more severe symptoms<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>. These include weariness, weakness, breathlessness, and even heart issues<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6861793\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28164513\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Effect on overall health:<\/strong> Low RDW might influences other parts of your health in unseen ways. That makes managing the root cause very crucial.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of iron in the blood.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thalassaemia is a genetic blood problem<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/thalassaemia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If your blood test reveals low red cell distribution width, your healthcare provider will check your signs and symptoms and may look at other blood test parameters to assess the reason behind this.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Important_Blood_Test_Indicators\"><\/span><strong>Other Important Blood Test Indicators<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides RDW, other <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/diagnostics\/packages\/anaemia-care-health-checkup-1971\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">blood tests<\/a><\/strong> are vital in gauging your health.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): <\/strong>Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is another key blood test. It finds out the mean size of your red blood cells. It\u2019s often part of a CBC. MCV results can give helpful information about the kind of anaemia you might have or if you\u2019re at risk of lacking certain nutrients. The bond between RDW and MCV can shed light on your health state<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/mcv-mean-corpuscular-volume\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">9<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Haemoglobin and Hematocrit Levels: <\/strong>Haemoglobin and hematocrit levels also matter a lot in blood tests. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Hematocrit tells us the red blood cells\u2019 volume percentage in the blood<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK259\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In reading RDW results, thinking about haemoglobin and hematocrit levels together is key. This combination gives a full view of your blood health. It helps healthcare providers make smart choices about your health.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Management_of_Low_RDW\"><\/span><strong>Management of Low RDW<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The right care and steps are vital for handling the root cause of low RDW.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Addressing the Underlying Cause\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-375x250.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-278376\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-2048x1365.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/women-consulting-with-a-doctor-150x100.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sub>Image Source: freepik.com<\/sub><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In managing low RDW, dealing with the root cause is most important. This means making the right tests, knowing the exact issue, and modifying the management plan accordingly. In some cases, your healthcare provider may suggest drugs, supplements, or lifestyle changes.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"265\" src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-375x265.webp\" alt=\"dont skip breakfast\" class=\"wp-image-234104\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-375x265.webp 375w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-1024x723.webp 1024w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-768x542.webp 768w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-1536x1085.webp 1536w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-2048x1446.webp 2048w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-480x339.webp 480w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-680x480.webp 680w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/14170300\/breakfast-woman-eating-150x106.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Eating a balanced diet rich in iron aids a lot in improving RDW levels<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5155616\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup>. Having foods high in vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients may help. Moreover, regular exercise and enough water intake may also help improve your blood health.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Monitoring and Follow-Up Tests\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"237\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-375x237.webp\" alt=\"consult a doctor\" class=\"wp-image-268586\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-375x237.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-1024x647.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-768x485.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-1536x970.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-2048x1294.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-480x303.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-760x480.webp 760w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/consult-a-doctor-150x95.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup>Image Source: freepik.com<\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Doing regular blood tests is key to tracking your RDW levels and controlling any ongoing health issues. This ensures your management plan is made to meet your exact requirements. It also allows for needed changes in your health plan.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing the value of low RDW and using this key information may help you maintain health. By tracking your RDW results and working in sync with your healthcare provider, you may manage your health well.\u00a0Moreover, fixing the root cause of low RDW and implementing the lifestyle and dietary changes required is vital. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1708677572443\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What does it mean when your red blood cell distribution width is low?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A low RDW shows that your red blood cells have the same size and shape. This is often seen as normal. It points to no blood problems. But if other blood test results aren\u2019t normal, dealing with the possible root causes with your healthcare provider is key.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1708677592678\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is the red blood cell distribution width in heart failure?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A high red blood cell distribution width has been linked to a higher chance of heart failure. The exact reasons for this correlation aren\u2019t fully known yet. But it\u2019s thought that inflammation, oxidative stress, and other factors tied to red blood cell production could play a part.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1708677608217\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What does the red cell distribution width RDW indicate on the peripheral blood smear?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">On the peripheral blood smear, the red cell distribution width (RDW) stands for the variance in size and volume of the red blood cells. A bigger RDW hints at a bigger variance, which could point to the presence of certain health issues, such as anaemia or nutrient deficiencies.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1708677619352\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What does it mean when you have low MCV?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) shows your red blood cells are smaller than usual. This could show certain types of anaemia<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>, such as a lack of iron in the blood or thalassaemia.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1708677641500\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How often should I have my RDW levels tested?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The frequency of RDW tests is based on your exact health needs and your healthcare provider\u2019s advice. Regular blood checks, including RDW, might be advised if you have an ongoing blood issue or risk of having certain health issues. In any case, getting advice from your healthcare provider is always key.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span><strong>References<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>PubMed. Poikilocytosis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 13]. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32965812\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32965812\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32965812<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The role of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in cardiovascular risk assessment: useful or hype? \u2013 PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 13]. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6861793\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6861793\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6861793<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Macrocytic Anemia [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 13]. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459295<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PubMed. Baseline Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Correlates with Disease Activity and Therapeutic Outcomes in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Irrespective of Anemia Status [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 13]. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28164513\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28164513<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kim HK, Kim SH, Ryu JK. Changes in the blood components caused by water intake. Korean Journal of Clinical Laboratory Science. 2017;49(3):227-232. doi:10.15324\/kjcls.2017.49.3.227. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kjcls.org\/journal\/view.html?doi=10.15324\/kjcls.2017.49.3.227\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.kjcls.org\/journal\/view.html?doi=10.15324\/kjcls.2017.49.3.227<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PubMed. Sleep duration and sleep disorder with red blood cell distribution width [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 13]. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26018095\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26018095<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Health Service (NHS). Thalassaemia [Internet]. London: NHS; [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/thalassaemia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/thalassaemia\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ellingsen TS, Lappeg\u00e5rd J, Skjelbakken T, Braekkan SK, Hansen JB. Impact of red cell distribution width on future risk of cancer and all-cause mortality among cancer patients \u2013 the Troms\u00f8 Study. Haematologica [Internet]. 2015 Oct [cited 2026 May 21];100(10):e387-9. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4591771\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4591771\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>MedlinePlus. MCV (mean corpuscular volume) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. National Library of Medicine; [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/mcv-mean-corpuscular-volume\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/mcv-mean-corpuscular-volume\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Billett HH. Hemoglobin and hematocrit. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations [Internet]. 3rd ed. Boston: Butterworths; 1990 [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK259\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK259\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prentice AM, Mendoza YA, Pereira D, Cerami C, Wegm\u00fcller R, Constable A, et al. Dietary strategies for improving iron status: balancing safety and efficacy. <em>Nutr Rev.<\/em> 2016 Dec 13;75(1):49\u201360. doi:10.1093\/nutrit\/nuw055. PMID: 27974599; PMCID: PMC5155616. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5155616\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5155616\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Library of Medicine (US). RDW (red cell distribution width) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): MedlinePlus; [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lab-tests\/rdw-red-cell-distribution-width\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liu Y, Qu J, Hu C, Zhao W, Zhang Y, Luo Y, et al. Relationship between red cell distribution width and lung cancer: evidence from Mendelian randomization and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Discover Oncology. 2025 May 22;16:867. doi:10.1007\/s12672-025-02718-6. PMID: 40405015; PMCID: PMC12098219. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC12098219\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC12098219\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Disclaimer<\/em><\/strong><em>: The information provided here is for educational\/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Links and product recommendations in the information<\/em> <em>provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products\/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<div class=\"pld-like-dislike-wrap pld-custom\">\r\n    <div class=\"pld-like-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-like-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Likes\" data-post-id=\"197826\" data-trigger-type=\"like\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132143\/like.png\" alt=\"Likes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-like-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\">2    <\/span>\r\n<\/div><div class=\"pld-dislike-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-dislike-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Dislikes\" data-post-id=\"197826\" data-trigger-type=\"dislike\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132208\/dislike.png\" alt=\"Dislikes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-dislike-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\"><\/span>\r\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Introduction Understanding blood test results is essential for getting the right care and maintaining good health. Red cell distribution width (RDW) is an important aspect that can provide clues about your overall well-being.\u00a0 In this article, you will learn about what RDW is, why it is measured, how to interpret your RDW results, and the [\u2026]","protected":false},"author":148,"featured_media":198600,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[10435],"tags":[12828],"acf":[],"_embedded":{"wp:featuredmedia":[{"source_url":"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/23084242\/459.jpg"}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197826"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/148"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=197826"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197826\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":279660,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197826\/revisions\/279660"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/198600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=197826"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=197826"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=197826"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}