To diagnose anemia, your doctor is likely to ask you about your medical and family history, perform a physical exam, and run the following tests: Complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is used to count the number of blood cells in a sample of your blood. For anemia, your doctor will be interested in the levels of the red blood cells contained in your blood (hematocrit) and the hemoglobin in your blood.
Normal adult hematocrit values vary among medical practices but are generally between 40% and 52% for men and 35% and 47% for women. Normal adult hemoglobin,
values are generally 14 to 18 grams per deciliter for men and 12 to 16 grams per deciliter for women.A test to determine the size and shape of your red blood cells.
Some of your red blood cells might also be examined for unusual size, shape and color.If you receive a diagnosis of anemia, your doctor might order additional tests to determine the cause.
