How to Read Your CBC Report: Hemoglobin, WBC and Platelets Explained

The CBC (complete blood count) is 19 numbers, but four matter most for you.

Hemoglobin

12–16 g/dL (women) and 14–18 g/dL (men). Low means anemia — check iron, B12, and chronic disease; high warrants hydration and smoking review. Trending over months beats a single value.

WBC

4,500–11,000/µL. High suggests bacterial infection or steroids; low may indicate viral illness or medication effect. Differential (neutrophils, lymphocytes) tells the story — our reports flag left shift and atypical lymphocytes.

Platelets

150,000–450,000/µL — clotting reserve. Isolated low needs repeat with citrate tube to exclude platelet clumping; our lab auto-comments when EDTA clumps suspected.

Always compare to your own trend. Our reports include delta checks against prior VitalCare results. Book a CBC at home today — 6 AM slots available.