RDW 17 % in your blood test results

You received your blood test result with a RDW value of 17 %. This analysis helps you to check if your RDW value is within normal range.

Your RDW value of 17 % is too high. A good Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) is usually between 11.8 and 15.6 %.

Lower your Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) by 1.4 % to be within normal range.

Please note: gender influences the normal range of the RDW level. For men, 11.8 - 15.6 % are considered normal, while for woman values between 11.9 and 15.5 % are within normal range.

Causes

A high RDW can be caused by several factors:

  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Macrocytic anemia
  • Microcytic anemia
  • Liver disease
  • Iron deficiency
  • Folate deficiency
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • A recent blood transfusion or hemorrhage
  • A normal response to some medical treatments
People who are at high risk of developing a high RDW include those affected by any of the factors listed above, as well as those who have been diagnosed with cancer.

Treatment & Medication

Depending on how high the RDW level is, treatment may include medication, vitamin supplements or simple changes in diet to include dark leafy greens, red meat, and organ meat.

Useful Information

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW or RDW-CV or RCDW and RDW-SD) is a measure of the range of variation of red blood cell (RBC) volume that is reported as part of a standard complete blood count.

Additional Information