Hematocrit levels: Definition, low levels, high levels, and more
Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in a person’s blood. Low red blood cell levels indicate conditions such as anemia. High red blood cell levels could signal polycythemia, which can increase a person’s chance of developing a blood clot.
If a person feels tired, dizzy, or short of breath, a doctor may want to test their hematocrit levels to see if those levels fall into a normal range or not.
Both high and low hematocrit levels can be detrimental to a person’s health, and can result from a variety of conditions and lifestyle factors.
Read on to learn more about what this measure of red blood cell volume means, symptoms of abnormal levels, and what low and high levels might indicate.
Hematocrit is a measure of the percentage of red blood cells in the body. For example: if a person has 50 milliliters (ml) of red blood cells in 100 ml of blood, their hematocrit level is 50%.
Red blood cells transport oxygen around the body and give blood its characteristic red color. In addition to oxygen, they also contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules. This allows red blood cells to pick up oxygen from the lungs and deliver it throughout the body.
Having an adequate amount of red blood cells is essential to keep the body’s processes running smoothly.
However, the percentage of red blood cells in someone’s blood can change depending on a variety of lifestyle factors and even environmental changes. According to research, red blood cell counts tend to increase at high altitude.
Exercise, particularly strength training, may also affect hematocrit levels. A 2018 study found that females who participated in 16 weeks of strength exercise had lower levels at the end compared when they started. However, the study had a small sample size of 26 middle-aged, sedentary Turkish women. This means that these findings aren’t necessarily representative of a wider population.
There are many conditions that can affect red blood cell production or their life cycle. This can make it difficult for a medical professional to diagnose these conditions. A doctor will use a hematocrit test to confirm whether a person’s red blood cell count is affecting a health condition.
Doctors usually test hematocrit levels as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
A CBC is composed of a range of tests, and may include:
- red blood cell count
- reticulocyte count (young red blood cells)
- an analysis of hemoglobin levels
- an analysis of red blood cells, including size and shape
- white blood cell tests
- platelet tests
A doctor will also take into consideration a person’s sex, race, and age. It is important to note that certain blood-related conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia, affect particular demographic groups at higher rates.
Learn more about sickle cell anemia in African Americans here.
Dehydration can raise hematocrit levels, so this test is useful if a doctor suspects severe dehydration is the cause of a person’s symptoms.
A doctor may request frequent hematocrit tests to monitor the effect of chemotherapy on person’s bone marrow.
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Normal hematocrit levels are:
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
Newborn babies have highTrusted Source hematocrit levels that gradually decrease as they get older.
If a person has recently received a blood transfusion, it may affect their results. Additionally, pregnant individuals may have lower levels than usual because the body increases its blood volume during pregnancy.
Other factors may push levels into a higher range, such as smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
When a person has low hematocrit levels they tend to present with the following symptoms:
- pale complexion
- weakness
- fatigue
- low energy
- trouble breathing
- irregular heartbeat
- cold hands or feet
These symptoms also indicate anemia, a condition where hemoglobin levels are lower than normal. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.
Mild anemia is treatable, and it is particularly common in womenTrusted Source. Severe anemia could signal a more serious underlying health condition that requires more extensive treatment.
Doctors associate anemia with several health conditions that include:
Nutrient deficiency
A person may lack B12, folate, or iron in their diet.
Learn more about how nutrient deficiency anemia is diagnosed and treated.
Chronic bleeding
This commonly occurs due to digestive tract ulcers, which are sores caused by the bacteria H.pylori or chronic use of anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and aspirin. Many women also experience excessive blood loss from heavy menstrual bleeding.
Bone marrow disorder
This includes aplastic anemia, which damages stem cells in bone marrow.
Cancer
These are cancers that spread to bone marrow, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Learn more about bone marrow cancers here.
Kidney failure
Kidney disease can lower the production of red blood cells, reducing hematocrit levels.
Thalassemia
When a person has this condition, their body does not produce enoughTrusted Source hemoglobin.
Learn more about thalassemia here.
Sickle cell anemia
This condition changes the shape of red blood cells. These cells die earlier than normal, and they also clump together, which impairs blood flow.
Learn more about sickle cell anemia here.
Autoimmune disease
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may reduce red blood cell count.
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When a person has high hematocrit levels they tend to present with these symptoms:
- flushed skin
- dizziness
- vision problems
- headaches
- enlarged spleen
These symptoms signal polycythemia, a condition where the body produces too manyTrusted Source red blood cells. This means blood is thicker and clots more easily.
Doctors cannot cure polycythemia, so treatment tends to focus on symptom management. The main goal is to avoid stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot usually occurring in a deep vein in the leg.
In some cases, dehydration causes polycythemia. When a person does not drink enough, their plasma levels drop, and this increases the proportion of red blood cells in their blood volume. A person can lower their red blood cell count by rehydrating.
Some conditions that can cause high hematocrit levels include:
Lung or pulmonary disease
When the lungs cannot absorb oxygen effectively and oxygen levels drop, the body compensates by making more red blood cells. One common pulmonary disease causing this is COPD.
Heart disease
If the structure of a person’s heart reduces its ability to pump blood around the body, it can no longer sustain vital organs with oxygen. To try and overcome the oxygen deficit the body produces more red blood cells.
Learn more about heart disease here.
Kidney cancer
Sometimes kidney cancer cells create more erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone that tells the bone marrow to create more red blood cells.
Learn more about kidney cancer here.
Genetic disease
The JAK2 gene, which controls the number of blood cells made in the bone marrow, can affect certain conditions. When someone has a mutated JAK2 gene, the body could make a protein that signals the bone marrow to create more red blood cells than it needs.
A person should speak with a doctor if they are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above that could be a sign of high or low hematocrit levels, including fatigue, weakness, vision problems, and dizziness.
These symptoms can also indicate an underlying condition, so it is important that a person contact a doctor in a timely manner to prevent future complications.
If a person is receiving chemotherapy treatment, a doctor should perform regular hematocrit tests to monitor bone marrow health.
Hematocrit is the percentage of blood cells in a person’s blood volume. A doctor may choose to test an individual’s hematocrit level due to certain symptoms.
A low hematocrit level means the are too few red blood cells in the body. In these cases, a person may experience symptoms that signal anemia. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and low energy.
If a person has too many red blood cells, they have a high hematocrit level. A person may experience dizziness and headaches, which can be a sign of the condition polycythemia.
Demographic and lifestyle factors can influence a person’s hematocrit levels. For example, males tend to have higher levels than females. Pregnant individuals can experience a decrease in hematocrit levels, and strength training may also reduce levels.
There are also a number of health conditions that can cause hematocrit levels outside the normal range. Excessive bleeding, thalassemia, and kidney disease are causes of low levels. COPD and sickle cell anemia can cause high levelIf you show symptoms of anemia (low blood count), irritation, dizziness, constant headaches, heavy periods, your doctor might want to carry out a blood test. A hematocrit test is a blood test that medical professionals undertake to diagnose health conditions like anemia and other related issues. The hematocrit test allows the medical practitioners to make the correct diagnosis and then recommend the proper treatment.
The present article highlights and describes what hematocrit tests are and what low hct and high hct mean.
What is hematocrit?
Hematocrit (hct) is a measurement of the volume percentage (size and number) of RBCs (red blood cells) that someone has. The hematocrit test is carried out by volume but is usually expressed in percentage. For example, if an individual has a hct of 35%, he or she has 35 milliliters of RBCs in 100 milliliters of blood.
Medical practitioners will ask a person (he or she) to get a hct test as part of a complete blood count (CBC) to determine how well the person responds to a particular treatment or to determine and diagnose if he or she has any underlying health issue. Hct helps assess the hemoglobin (Hgb), which is present in RBCs that carry oxygen. Hemoglobin is important for the body to function properly (Billett,1990).
Why is hematocrit important?
Hct tests are important as they help to measure the blood count (RBCs) someone has. If a person is experiencing fatigue, cold feet and hands, poor focus, heavy periods, and irritation, he could be anemic. To diagnose this condition, medical practitioners use hematocrit tests.
Hct tests are also referred to as PCV (packed cell volume) tests. Hct tests also help determine if the person had nutritional deficiencies or other critical medical conditions like arthritis, leukemia, or renal issues. Too low or too high RBC count indicates certain diseases or nutritional deficiencies that medical practitioners will know how to identify (Rieder et al., 2014).
What to expect during a hematocrit test?
During a hct test, a phlebotomist will take your blood sample for testing purposes. The blood drawing process can be a little unpleasant and uncomfortable for some. Some also feel a feeling of light-headedness. So, it is advisable to lie down while the blood sample is being taken.
What is a normal hematocrit level?
35% – 50% hematocrit level is considered normal in the case of a healthy adult. In the case of women, a hematocrit level between 36.1% – 44.3% (36% to 44% red blood cells) is considered normal, and in the case of men, a hematocrit level range between 40.7% – 50.3% (40% to 50%) is considered normal. A hematocrit level between 32% – 61% is normal (Cohen et al., 2017).
Hct tests are very reliable and usually pretty accurate for monitoring anemia. These tests aid the medical practitioners in diagnosing the right medical condition and advise the most suitable treatment. Some factors that are responsible for giving wrong and inaccurate (abnormally low or high) hematocrit levels include:
- Blood transfusions (the process of transferring blood products into one’s circulation intravenously) that have taken place recently
- Hct levels are usually lower than usual when women are pregnant
- Hct levels are usually higher than normal for people living at a high altitude
- High hct levels are also caused by dehydration
Health practitioners very well know what factors could potentially skew hct test results. If some health conditions could affect your hct results, then your doctor might ask you to retake the test at a different time.
What does it mean if your hematocrit is low?
Low hct levels are referred to as a condition of anemia. If you’re experiencing any of the below-listed signs, they could mean you have a low red blood cell count:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Absence of focus
- Heavy monthly periods
- Irritation and being grumpy
- Shortness of breath
If you take a hct test, and the results show that the hct levels are low, that means you have anemia, and your red blood cells are present in a lower percentage (Reinhart, 2016).
What causes low hematocrit (HCT) Levels?
Several causes of low hematocrit include;
Anemia
Low hematocrit levels are indicative of the person being anemic. Ascertaining to HCT and testing Hgb levels (hemoglobin levels) can help figure out how much anemic (low blood levels) a person is. Low hematocrit levels and other Red Blood Cells indices can also help establish the reasons for the development of anemia (Miller, 2013).
Other symptoms of anemia can include:
- Tiredness and less energy
- Erratic or a racing heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- A pale complexion
Nutritional deficiencies
Low HCT levels are indicative of nutritional deficiencies that are associated with anemia. It can indicate low vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and folic acid (a water-soluble B vitamin).
Low levels of these nutrients are often accompanied by too little iron in the body (iron deficiency). Many people have B-group vitamin deficiencies.
These vitamins are – thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), and folate.
As well as displaying symptoms of anemia, signs of a B12 deficiency (Cobalamin deficiency) can also include:
- Irregular or disturbed sleep patterns
- Mood swings
- Problem indigestion
- Headaches
- Difficulty in focus and concentrating
Arthritis
People who have rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain and damage to the joints) may also have low hematocrit and inadequate oxygen-rich blood cells.
Several scientific studies
have reported that low Hgb levels (hemoglobin levels) in the blood are
connected with the severity of the illness. Low hematocrit levels in
people with rheumatoid arthritis can also result in other severe
illnesses
Depression
People with low hematocrit levels can also show symptoms of depression, elevated stress, and panic disorder.
Anxiety and panic disorder elevate inflammatory responses in the system.
This triggers a reduction in
hematocrit levels. Medical experts have also reported that the blood
test results from stressed and anxious people show an increase in
neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that helps heal damaged tissues)
and leukocytes (WBCs)
Turmeric supplements are beneficial in treating depression to a great extent.
Apart from these supplements, 5-Hydroxytryptophan, also known as oxitriptan (a naturally occurring amino acid) and S‐adenosyl methionine (SAMe) supplements help to deal with symptoms of depression.
Fibromyalgia
Hematocrit levels are lower than normal in people who suffer from chronic pain related to fibromyalgia. Inflammation in the body impacts RBCs and WBCs production. Anxiety and elevated sexual dysfunction are some health disorders associated with fibromyalgia.
Several studies have proved that people with fibromyalgia have low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. D-Ribose supplements (a critically important sugar molecule that helps improve health and exercise performance) help address fibromyalgia symptoms
Intermittent Fasting:
Intermittent fasting is a form of fasting cycles between not eating (fasting) and eating (feasting) over a period of time. The benefits of intermittent fasting benefits include cellular repair, autophagy, immune regulation, inflammation levels, and insulin sensitivity.
It also helps to lower the risk of developing autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Going 16–18 hours between dinner and breakfast is one of the best ways to improve mitochondrial production. Your body improves energy efficiency by increasing and strengthening the mitochondria during periods of fasting. Consume your meals in a 6-8 hour window such as 11am–7pm or 12–6pm.
When you do this you enhance cellular healing and reduce neuroinflammation in the body. To learn more about the benefits of intermittent fasting and best intermittent fasting practices, I recommend this article.
Kidney disease
There is a significant reduction in hematocrit levels in people who suffer from kidney disease. RBC (Red Blood Cell) production is affected by kidney illness as the secretion of kidney hormones controls the RBCs.
People
suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) or renal disorders usually
have lower than the normal range of HCT levels and Hgb (hemoglobin
levels). To keep kidneys healthy and functioning properly, and prevent
any infection, drink plenty of water, avoid excess sugar, alcohol,
smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle
Digestive problems
Low HCT levels are indicative of inflammation in the digestive tract that affects the volume of RBCs. A form of digestive issue and called ulcerative colitis (a type of inflammatory bowel sickness) can affect HCT levels.
People suffering from digestive issues and autoimmune conditions (in which the body’s natural defense system is weak and attacks the normal cells) exhibit signs of anemia.
The reason is
excessive internal hemorrhage in the digestive system. Crohn’s disease
and ulcerative colitis are just 2 reasons why your digestive system
doesn’t work properly
Other signs of inflammatory digestive conditions include:
- Frequents bouts of diarrhea after eating
- Passing greasy stools
- Pain under your ribs
- Indigestion and heartburn
Autoimmune conditions
Low Hct is often associated with certain autoimmune conditions, and checking hematocrit levels can help doctors recommend the best course of treatment.
Some research studies report that some autoimmune conditions can result in anemia.
Low mean platelet volume (MPV) in a lab blood
test can also be used to identify some autoimmune conditions
Low Hematocrit Symptoms
Doctors often arrange for an Hct test if a person complains of symptoms associated with a low hematocrit. The reasons for a drop in Hct levels could be that red blood cells are getting destroyed quicker than the body can make them, or the body isn’t creating enough of them.
Symptoms of low hematocrit include the following;
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of dizziness or light-headedness
- Frequent headaches
- Chest pain
- Clammy skin that looks pale
- Tiredness
- Lack of concentration
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Heavy menstrual cycles
- Grumpiness
What to do for abnormally low hematocrit levels?
If the tests show deficient RBCs, then doctors advise blood transfusions or intravenous blood. In some cases, if the body is unable to make RBCs due to an existing or underlying health condition, some medication might be prescribed by the doctor to help stimulate new RBCs. A healthy diet rich in all essential nutrients, vitamins, folic acid is also beneficial in preventing anemia.
Just because you have low hct levels does
not necessarily mean that you suffer from the above medical
complications. Your health practitioner will carry out another medical
diagnosis by further tests to help ascertain and determine what’s
actually going on
What does it mean if your hematocrit is high?
Anyone experiencing the below-listed symptoms is indicative of hematocrit being higher than normal. In case of any of these signs and symptoms, you should consider your doctor about whether or not an hct test is needed for you. These symptoms include;
- Flushed skin
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Itching
- Pain in the joints
- Sweating
High hct levels mean your RBCs are abnormally high and could be indicative of the below given medical conditions like:
- Erythrocytosis (a condition in which your body makes too many red blood cells (RBCs))
- Dehydration
- Carbon monoxide poisoning (when carbon monoxide builds up in your bloodstream)
- Congenital heart disease (an abnormality in the heart that happens before birth)
- Bone marrow disease (polycythemia vera)
- Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (example, from high blood pressure)
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) exacerbation
- Retinopathy (eye blood vessel damage)
- Pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lungs) and pulmonary hypertension
- Less oxygen in the blood (often due to lung conditions)
- Sleep apnea
- Capillary leak syndrome (leaky blood vessels)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Eclampsia (pregnancy complications)
- Hyponatremia (low blood sodium)
- Metabolic syndrome
- Necrotizing pancreatitis (example, from alcohol abuse)
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (example., from fertility treatments)
- Prediabetes
Abnormally high hct levels of RBCs do not warrant that you are suffering from any of the above-listed health conditions. Your health practitioner will diagnose the reasons for your high hct levels and whether or not you have any of the above medical conditions.
What Causes high hematocrit (HCT) Levels?
A high hematocrit level happens when the body needs increased oxygen because;
- You are living at a high altitude, and your RBC production naturally increases to make up for the lower oxygen supply there
- Spaceflight
- Workplace pollution
- Your sleeping position (head tilted downward)
- Being male
- Being obese
- Depression
- Army/Military training
- You are a smoker
High hct levels are less common because
- Your RBC production increases to compensate for deficient blood oxygen levels because of improper lung and heart functioning.
- The bone marrow is forming too many RBCs
- You are on drugs like erythropoietin (EPO) that stimulate RBC production
What to do for abnormally high hematocrit levels?
Some lifestyle changes like quitting cigarette smoking and remaining hydrated help lower abnormally high hematocrit levels. Some medications are also prescribed, like aspirin that prevents the formation of blood clots due to an increase in red blood cells.
Other medicines that the health practitioners may prescribe for high medications that doctors prescribe for high red blood cells are likely to emphasize treating medical conditions responsible for the production of too many red blood cells, like bone marrow or heart disease. Bloodletting (Phlebotomy) is a common technique to reduce abnormally high red blood cell counts. In this procedure, the blood is withdrawn from the veins to make it thinner.
Low Hematocrit Is a Strong Predictor of Poor Prognosis in Lung Cancer Patients
Red blood cells are an important aspect of life, and erythropoietin is a hormone directly connected to the production and maintenance of these cells. For those wishing to take control over their endocrine health, understanding erythropoietin and its role in the body will help.
Erythropoietin, also known as EPO, is a hormone that the kidneys produce to stimulate production and maintenance of crucial red blood cells. The hormone does this in two ways: First, it stimulates bone marrow cells to produce red blood cells. Then, it works to protect the cells from destruction once they are in the body.
What does erythropoietin?
Erythropoietin stimulates other tissues in the body to produce and protect red blood cells. Doctors do not fully understand how the hormone is produced and controlled. However, when the body is not circulating enough oxygen in the blood, erythropoietin production increases. When oxygen levels are where they should be, it drops. This is commonly seen when someone moves to a higher altitude, where air pressure is lower and the blood absorbs less oxygen. Increased erythropoietin production helps compensate for this. The underlying processes that cause this change are not yet known.
Problems with erythropoietin
Individuals can suffer from having too much erythropoietin in the blood or from having an erythropoietin deficiency. High levels of the hormone often occur when the body experiences chronic low levels of blood oxygen or if tumors produce the hormone. When this occurs, the patient will develop a high red blood cell count, which is called polycythaemia. This can produce few symptoms, but sometimes will produce itching, dizziness, joint pain, and fatigue.
Low levels of erythropoietin occur when someone is suffering from chronic kidney diseases. Low red blood cell counts cause anemia; symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and dizziness.
Questions to ask your doctor
Diagnosis of problems with erythropoietin is often done through blood tests that measure red blood cell counts. If you are concerned about your red blood cell count, talk to your doctor. You may wish to ask:
- Could erythropoietin be the source of my blood cell count problems?
- What treatments are available?
- What lifestyle changes could I make to help?
- What underlying conditions could be causing this problem?
If you do not have an endocrinologist, you need to find a qualified one to help you with these questions. Use our effective directory to find an endocrinologist in your area, and get started on learning more about your hormone health.
Glands & Hormones A-Z
The endocrine system is a series of glands that produce and secrete hormones that the body uses for a wide range of functions. Learn more about how to keep your body in balance.
Gland Adrenal Glands
The adrenal gland produces androgen and cortisol. It helps to control blood sugar and much more. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The adrenal gland produces androgen and cortisol. It helps to control blood sugar and much more. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Adrenaline
Adrenaline is a hormone released into the body of someone feeling extreme emotions, which causes the person to have more energy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Adrenaline is a hormone released into the body of someone feeling extreme emotions, which causes the person to have more energy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a hormone that plays an important role by stimulating the production of cortisol. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a hormone that plays an important role by stimulating the production of cortisol. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Aldosterone
Aldosterone plays an important role in cardiovascular health and can be a cause of endocrine hypertension. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Aldosterone plays an important role in cardiovascular health and can be a cause of endocrine hypertension. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Angiotensin
Angiotensin is a common name for four hormones and play an important role in blood pressure regulation. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Angiotensin is a common name for four hormones and play an important role in blood pressure regulation. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Women are born with their lifetime supply of eggs but these decrease with age. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) acts as the gatekeeper for fertility and reproductive development. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Women are born with their lifetime supply of eggs but these decrease with age. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) acts as the gatekeeper for fertility and reproductive development. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Calcitonin
Calcitonin is one of the most critical hormones, controlling calcium and potassium levels. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Calcitonin is one of the most critical hormones, controlling calcium and potassium levels. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Cholecystokinin
Cholecystokinin is most recognized for improving digestion. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Cholecystokinin is most recognized for improving digestion. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Cortisol
Cortisol is often called the "stress hormone." Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Cortisol is often called the "stress hormone." Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an important precursor hormone. It has little biological effect on its own but has powerful effects when converted into other hormones used for reproduction. Learn what happens if you have too much or too little of this hormone.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an important precursor hormone. It has little biological effect on its own but has powerful effects when converted into other hormones used for reproduction. Learn what happens if you have too much or too little of this hormone. Hormone Dihydrotestosterone
Dihydrotestosterone is a hormone that stimulates the development of male characteristics. The amount of dihydrotestosterone present in the body from day to day depends on the amount of testosterone present. Learn what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone.
Dihydrotestosterone is a hormone that stimulates the development of male characteristics. The amount of dihydrotestosterone present in the body from day to day depends on the amount of testosterone present. Learn what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone. Gland Endocrine-related Organs
Several organs play a major role in helping the endocrine system to work well. Although these organs are not glands themselves, they do produce, store, and send out hormones that help the body to function properly and maintain a healthy balance.
Several organs play a major role in helping the endocrine system to work well. Although these organs are not glands themselves, they do produce, store, and send out hormones that help the body to function properly and maintain a healthy balance. Hormone Erythropoietin
Erythropoietin support the production of red blood cells. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Erythropoietin support the production of red blood cells. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Estradiol
Estradiol is the strongest of the three estrogens and an important player in the female reproductive system and the most common type for women of childbearing age. Learn more about what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone.
Estradiol is the strongest of the three estrogens and an important player in the female reproductive system and the most common type for women of childbearing age. Learn more about what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone. Hormone Estriol
Estriol is an estrogen hormone a minor female sex hormone. It promotes the uterus’ growth and gradually prepares a woman’s body for giving birth. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Estriol is an estrogen hormone a minor female sex hormone. It promotes the uterus’ growth and gradually prepares a woman’s body for giving birth. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Estrogen
Estrogen is one of two main sex hormones that women have. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Estrogen is one of two main sex hormones that women have. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Estrone
Estrone is one of the three types of estrogens and the only estrogen your body makes after menopause-when menstrual periods stop. Learn more about what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone.
Estrone is one of the three types of estrogens and the only estrogen your body makes after menopause-when menstrual periods stop. Learn more about what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone. Hormone Gastrin
Gastrin is directly responsible for the release of gastric acid, which breaks down the proteins in the food you eat. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Gastrin is directly responsible for the release of gastric acid, which breaks down the proteins in the food you eat. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Ghrelin
Ghrelin is an important digestive hormone that controls appetite. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Ghrelin is an important digestive hormone that controls appetite. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Glucagon
Glucagon, a peptide hormone, is produced by the pancreas to regulate glucose in the bloodstream. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Glucagon, a peptide hormone, is produced by the pancreas to regulate glucose in the bloodstream. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Glucagon Like Peptide 1
Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a hormone produced in the small intestine that stimulates insulin production and prevents glucagon production, thereby lowering blood sugar. Learn what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone.
Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a hormone produced in the small intestine that stimulates insulin production and prevents glucagon production, thereby lowering blood sugar. Learn what happens if there is too much or too little of this hormone. Hormone Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone
Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) secrete improtant reproductive hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) secrete improtant reproductive hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Growth Hormone
Growth hormone (GH) is a substance that controls your body’s growth. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Growth hormone (GH) is a substance that controls your body’s growth. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Hormone (HcG)
Ever wonder how are at-home pregnancy tests able to detect if you are pregnant? The Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HcG) hormone is important in the early stages of pregnancy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Ever wonder how are at-home pregnancy tests able to detect if you are pregnant? The Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HcG) hormone is important in the early stages of pregnancy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Hypothalamus
The hypothalamus is in control of pituitary hormones. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The hypothalamus is in control of pituitary hormones. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Insulin
The hormone insulin is essential for life, regulates many metabolic processes that provide cells with needed energy. Understanding insulin, what insulin does, and how it affects the body, is important to your overall health.
The hormone insulin is essential for life, regulates many metabolic processes that provide cells with needed energy. Understanding insulin, what insulin does, and how it affects the body, is important to your overall health. Hormone Kisspeptin
Kisspeptin is made in the hypothalamus, is an important hormone that starts the release of several other hormones. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Kisspeptin is made in the hypothalamus, is an important hormone that starts the release of several other hormones. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Leptin
Leptin is a hormone that is crucial to appetite and weight control. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Leptin is a hormone that is crucial to appetite and weight control. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Luteinizing Hormone LH
Luteinizing hormone (LH) controls male and female reproductive systems. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Luteinizing hormone (LH) controls male and female reproductive systems. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH)
Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH) is essential for preserving the skin from ultraviolet rays, the development of pigmentation, and controlling appetite. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH) is essential for preserving the skin from ultraviolet rays, the development of pigmentation, and controlling appetite. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates our sleep and wake cycle and is sometimes used as a supplement. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates our sleep and wake cycle and is sometimes used as a supplement. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine is a hormone and a neurotransmitter that increases heart rate and blood pressure, breaks down fat, and more. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Norepinephrine is a hormone and a neurotransmitter that increases heart rate and blood pressure, breaks down fat, and more. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Ovaries
The ovaries play an important role in female reproduction and development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The ovaries play an important role in female reproduction and development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a hormone crucial for childbirth and labor, breastfeeding, and social behaviors and bonding. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Oxytocin is a hormone crucial for childbirth and labor, breastfeeding, and social behaviors and bonding. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Pancreas
The main function of the pancreas is to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The main function of the pancreas is to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Gland Parathyroid
The parathyroid is important in bone development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The parathyroid is important in bone development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Parathyroid Hormone
The parathyroid hormone affects your calcium levels in the bones, intestines and kidneys. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
The parathyroid hormone affects your calcium levels in the bones, intestines and kidneys. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Peptide YY
How is your body able to recognize when you have eaten enough food? After eating, the hormone peptide YY (PYY) is produced by the small intestine and released into your bloodstream. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
How is your body able to recognize when you have eaten enough food? After eating, the hormone peptide YY (PYY) is produced by the small intestine and released into your bloodstream. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Pineal Gland
The pineal gland and its importance for your sleep cycle. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The pineal gland and its importance for your sleep cycle. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Gland Pituitary Gland
Find out why the pituitary gland is vital to your overall well-being. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
Find out why the pituitary gland is vital to your overall well-being. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Progesterone
Progesterone is a female hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle and is crucial for pregnancy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Progesterone is a female hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle and is crucial for pregnancy. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Prolactin
Prolactin, or luteotropin, is the hormone that helps mammals produce milk. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Prolactin, or luteotropin, is the hormone that helps mammals produce milk. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Prostaglandins
Prostaglandins are lipids that aid in recovery at sites of tissue damage or infection. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Prostaglandins are lipids that aid in recovery at sites of tissue damage or infection. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Relaxin
When a woman is ready to deliver a baby her body produces the hormone relaxin. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
When a woman is ready to deliver a baby her body produces the hormone relaxin. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Serotonin
Have you ever wondered what hormone is responsible for your mood and feelings? Serotonin is the key hormone that stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Have you ever wondered what hormone is responsible for your mood and feelings? Serotonin is the key hormone that stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Somatostatin
Somatostatin is also called SS, SST or SOM. This growth hormone inhibitory hormone affects several areas of the body by hindering the secretion of other hormones. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Somatostatin is also called SS, SST or SOM. This growth hormone inhibitory hormone affects several areas of the body by hindering the secretion of other hormones. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Testes
The testes play an important role in male development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
The testes play an important role in male development. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Hormone Testosterone
Testosterone is an important male sex hormone. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Testosterone is an important male sex hormone. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Gland Thymus
Thymus plays an important role during puberty. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system.
Thymus plays an important role during puberty. Learn how the hormones produced by this gland affect many aspects of genetics and it's role in the endocrine system. Gland Thyroid
The thyroid gland controls a person's metabolism and the hormones it releases governs many functions in the body.
The thyroid gland controls a person's metabolism and the hormones it releases governs many functions in the body. Hormone Thyroid Hormones
The thyroid gland releases triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones play an important role in regulation of your weight, energy levels, internal temperature, skin, hair, nail growth, and more. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
The thyroid gland releases triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones play an important role in regulation of your weight, energy levels, internal temperature, skin, hair, nail growth, and more. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Thyroxine
Thyroxine aids in digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development, and bone maintenance. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance.
Thyroxine aids in digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development, and bone maintenance. Learn how this hormone affects many aspects of your health and how to keep it in balance. Hormone Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a hormone that promotes calcium absorption and bone growth. Learn more about vitamin D and how it affects bone health from the experts at hormone.org.
Vitamin D is a hormone that promotes calcium absorption and bone growth. Learn more about vitamin D and how it affects bone health from the experts at hormone.org.
