What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained fatigue, weakness, or feel constantly tired despite getting enough rest. It helps determine if your bone marrow is producing enough new red blood cells, which is crucial for diagnosing different types of anemia and monitoring how well your body is responding to anemia treatment. Many people use this test when they have symptoms of anemia but want to understand the underlying cause.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your reticulocyte count means for your blood health and energy levels. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary changes to support red blood cell production, supplement suggestions, or whether you should follow up with a hematologist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your reticulocyte levels over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful if you're being treated for anemia.

What's included in this test?

This test measures Reticulocyte Count (Automated) and Reticulocyte Absolute count. These measurements reveal how actively your bone marrow is producing new red blood cells, which helps distinguish between anemia caused by insufficient production versus anemia from blood loss or destruction. Together, these values provide critical insights into whether your body is responding appropriately to conditions affecting your blood and oxygen delivery.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone experiencing persistent fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or dizziness that might indicate anemia. It's especially useful if you've been diagnosed with anemia and need to monitor treatment progress, have a condition affecting bone marrow function, or are recovering from significant blood loss. People with chronic kidney disease or taking medications like chemotherapy may also need regular monitoring.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with rest, feeling weak or lightheaded, pale skin or nail beds, and shortness of breath during normal activities. You might also notice rapid heartbeat, cold hands and feet, or difficulty concentrating. If you've been told you're anemic but treatment isn't helping, this test can reveal if your bone marrow is responding properly.

What is a reticulocyte and why does it matter?

Reticulocytes are young, immature red blood cells that your bone marrow releases into your bloodstream. They mature into full red blood cells within a day or two. Measuring them is like checking if your body's red blood cell factory is working properly—high counts suggest your bone marrow is working overtime to replace lost cells, while low counts may indicate production problems.

How can I naturally support red blood cell production?

Focus on iron-rich foods like lean red meat, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals, paired with vitamin C sources to enhance absorption. Include B vitamins, especially B12 and folate, found in eggs, dairy, leafy greens, and fortified grains. Getting adequate copper from nuts and seeds, staying hydrated, and managing chronic inflammation through a balanced diet can also support healthy red blood cell production.

What does a high reticulocyte count mean?

A high reticulocyte count usually means your bone marrow is working hard to produce more red blood cells, often in response to blood loss, hemolysis (red blood cell destruction), or successful anemia treatment. This is actually a positive sign if you're being treated for anemia, showing your body is responding well. However, persistently high levels may need further investigation to identify the underlying cause of increased demand.

What does a low reticulocyte count mean?

A low reticulocyte count suggests your bone marrow isn't producing enough new red blood cells, which can indicate issues with bone marrow function, nutritional deficiencies (like iron, B12, or folate), or certain chronic diseases. If you're anemic with low reticulocytes, it means your body isn't responding appropriately to replace red blood cells, and you may need further testing to identify why production is impaired.

How often should I retest my reticulocyte count?

If you're being treated for anemia, your doctor will typically retest every 1-2 weeks initially to monitor how well your bone marrow is responding to treatment. Once levels stabilize and your anemia improves, testing every 1-3 months may be sufficient for ongoing monitoring. If you have chronic conditions affecting red blood cell production, regular testing every 3-6 months helps track trends and adjust treatment as needed.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Reticulocyte Count Test - Anemia & Fatigue Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Blood Test for Fatigue and Weakness from Anemia