Does Age Affect Hematocrit Levels? A Comprehensive Guide to Normal Ranges
Yes, age significantly affects hematocrit levels, with typical reference ranges varying substantially from newborns to older adults. For instance, newborns have particularly high hematocrit levels, a value that typically decreases in early life before stabilizing in adulthood and potentially declining again in older age. Understanding how these values naturally shift throughout life is crucial for interpreting blood test results correctly and identifying potential health issues.