Red blood cells are vital in transferring oxygen from your lungs to multiple cells throughout your body. The process helps your cells to function, multiply and grow. However, if the number of red blood cells is higher or lower than normal, it might indicate an illness. These illnesses might include blood cell complications like anaemia, kidney problems and malnutrition. Doctors conduct a total red cell count test to prevent any underlying ailments from worsening. This test enables the doctors to understand the number of red blood cells in your body and analyse your overall health. It can also help patients understand any pre-existing kidney disorders. After diagnosing any blood-related complications, the doctor may prescribe medications or special treatments for you. Certain symptoms and conditions can indicate blood disorders or low red blood cell count in the body. These include extreme fatigue and weakness, increased heartbeat, and pale or dull skin. Moreover, the symptoms of high red blood cell count can involve conditions like: Fatigue  Shortness of breath  Joint pain  Dizziness  Headaches  Problems with your eyesight The total red cell count test determines the red blood cell count along with amounts of Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW). The Mean Corpuscular Volume determines the average red blood cell count in your body. Doctors use the Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin test to understand the average haemoglobin concentration in the average amount of red blood cells. The Mean Corpuscular haemoglobin Concentration determines the average haemoglobin concentration in red blood cells of a given volume. This total red cell count test package also measures the Red Cell Distribution Width, which evaluates the differences between the red blood cell count and volume. Apollo 247’s total red cell count test is essential for a comprehensive analysis of your blood and disorders like leukaemia. Doctors might include the test as a part of your routine check-up to enhance your health. After completion of the test, the doctor will analyse the results. Based on your health condition, they might recommend you to take other blood tests. If you are healthy but your red blood cell count is slightly above the normal range, the condition might not be serious. In that case, your doctor will recommend you another treatment plan for preventing blood-related disorders.    Medically reviewed by Dr. Srikanth M, Haematologist, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai