What are the common conditions that affect red blood cells?

There are potentially several conditions that can affect red blood cells. Some of the more common include: 

Anemia

Anemia is associated with low blood cell count. It may occur when there’s a problem with the red blood cell production so the body doesn’t produce enough. Or it may occur when the red blood cells are not functioning as they should. In both cases, the red blood cells in the body carry less oxygen than is needed by the body, resulting in tiredness and weakness. 

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a type of inherited blood disorder in which the red blood cells misshapen. They resemble a half moon or sickle instead of the smooth disc shape of healthy red blood cells. This abnormal shape makes it difficult for the red blood cells to flow into small blood vessels like the capillaries, blocking the red blood cells and the blood flow. The lack of blood can result in various problems ranging from infection and pain to organs not receiving sufficient blood. 

Thalassemia

Thalassemia is another type of inherited blood disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce the normal form of hemoglobin, resulting in large numbers of red blood cells being damaged. The significantly low red blood cell count leads to anemia, which manifests as persistent fatigue and weakness. 

Erythrocytosis

Erythrocytosis is a rare inherited blood disorder in which the body produces copious amounts of red blood cells, causing an excess in the body. Too many blood cells in the body increases the risk for blood clot formation, which could hinder the blood from flowing to major organs such as the lungs, heart, or brain.