• Published on: Nov 10, 2021
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Understanding Hemogram

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Understanding Hemogram

A hemogram can tell you a lot about your blood. For instance, red and white blood cells, as well as platelets (also called thrombocytes), will be counted and examined for size, shape, volume, and degree of organization. Specific factors that may affect these parameters include a total number of erythrocyte progenitor stem cells; RBC membrane stiffness; frequency of RBC production; distribution and frequency of phagocytosis (cellular breakdown); distribution and type of leukocytes (white blood cells) in circulation; vitamin deficiencies like folic acid or B12 deficiency. The number of toxic substances such as lead poisoning can also be analyzed from a hemogram.

Your hemoglobin levels should be high and your white cell count should be low. It's very important to have a blood test done when you're pregnant to make sure that you don't have any type of disease that the blood could transmit to the baby through the placenta, such as hepatitis B or C, HIV/AIDS, syphilis, or other diseases.

It's also important when giving birth if one is Rh-negative and hasn't been vaccinated against it (if they can't remember their past). If they were exposed in pregnancy and gave birth with an Rh-positive partner, there's a chance for their newborn baby to receive too many RBCs from mom and develop jaundice/anemia;

A hemogram is a blood test that measures the hematocrit, hemoglobin levels, and other substances in the blood (such as total protein and red blood cells). Hemograms can be differential or comprehensive. Comprehensive: performs a complete analysis of all forms of an organism's entire circulating cellular mass.  Differential: analyzes two sources from one specimen- for example, plasma and white cells, platelets and red cells, prothrombin time combined with partial thromboplastin time (PTT), D-dimer level with complete lipid profile to provide a clear diagnosis of possible metabolic liver problems.

A blood count measures the number of each type of cell found in one cubic millimeter (1/10th of a teaspoon) or 500 microliters (a little less than half a cup) of whole blood. The numbers are reported as cells per cubic millimeter, so you need to know how many millions there are to divide by 10 to get the actual headcount. In this way, for example, someone under 20 could have 1.0x1012 neutrophils and have a CBC that says they have 10x109 neutrophils per cubic millimeter."

The blood count may reveal, for example, an abnormally high number of red blood cells (confirmatory diagnosis) or determinations made by routine inspection that are not obvious without the additional information present in the hemogram. A hemogram is typically conducted to investigate an abnormal indication on a CBC. For instance, if you have very low white counts and no cause for this can be determined using other lab tests like a peripheral smear or bone marrow biopsy, it's possible that your doctor will perform a complete hemogram. Most often abnormalities are seen on the CBC.

When you're involved in extreme sports like skateboarding, your chances of getting injured are much greater than if you're at the pool or sipping tea. Hematoma is a condition that usually arises from some form of blunt force or direct trauma-related injury to the muscles and/or bones due to the high blood vessels around those areas. This injury can cause swelling which creates pressure on these vessels causing red blood cells to either leak into the soft tissue, tissues fluids, or even lead to a blocked flow of fresh oxygenated blood through these vessels if not treated promptly with an incision.

A hematocrit test analyzes the volume of red blood cells in one cubic millimeter of blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from tissues and organs. The more severely an individual is afflicted with anemia, the lower the percentage of red blood cells they would have in one cubic millimeter of their own cardiac tissue.

If you endure a deep cut on your arm, your body will release stress hormones such as cortisol or epinephrine that prepare your immune system for increased levels of intense activity. These types of stress hormones also trigger a large release of iron from storage sites on red blood cells so that enough iron is available to help form new erythrocytes.

A haemogram is a study of the cellular inclusions in one's blood based on their shape, color, size, and specific gene expression. This process involves pumping a person's blood through a machine (this machine includes some spinning disks that separate out each type of cell for study). However, this test is not commonly done. Instead, analysis is usually limited to basic counts of red and white blood cells as well as platelets.

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Chronic Stress Affects Your Digestive Health

How Chronic Stress Affects Your Digestive Health – Understanding the Gut-Stress Connection

Introduction:

In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become a constant companion. From work pressures to personal challenges, chronic stress can take a serious toll on your health. While most people are aware of how stress can affect mental well-being, many don't realize its powerful impact on physical health — especially the digestive system. Yes, your gut and brain are more connected than you think. In this blog, we’ll explore how chronic stress affects your digestive health, the science behind it, symptoms to watch for, and simple tips to protect your gut.

 

What Is Chronic Stress?

Stress is the body’s natural response to pressure or danger. It can be helpful in short bursts (like escaping danger), but when it becomes ongoing — known as chronic stress — it can harm your body over time.

Chronic stress arises when you constantly feel overwhelmed or unable to cope with the demands of daily life. This continuous stress activates your body’s fight-or-flight response, keeping your system on high alert.

 

The Gut-Brain Connection

Your gut and brain are linked through a complex communication network known as the gut-brain axis. This system connects your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) with your enteric nervous system (gut nerves).

  • The vagus nerve, one of the largest nerves in the body, plays a big role in this communication.

  • Neurotransmitters like serotonin (which affects mood) are produced in the gut.

  • Your gut bacteria (microbiome) also influence brain function and stress levels.
     

This two-way relationship means stress can affect your gut — and gut issues can impact your mood.

 

How Chronic Stress Affects Your Digestive Health

Let’s break down exactly what happens to your digestive system when you’re under long-term stress.

 

1. Slows Down Digestion

When you’re stressed, your body shifts energy away from digestion to prioritize “survival.” This means food may sit longer in your stomach, leading to:

  • Bloating

  • Gas

  • Indigestion

  • Heartburn

 

2. Triggers or Worsens Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

People with IBS often report that stress worsens their symptoms. Chronic stress may:

  • Increase abdominal pain

  • Trigger diarrhea or constipation

  • Create irregular bowel habits

 

3. Changes Gut Bacteria

Stress can harm the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut, known as the microbiome. A disrupted microbiome can lead to:

  • Inflammation

  • Weakened immune system\

  • Poor nutrient absorption

  • Increased risk of leaky gut

 

4. Reduces Blood Flow to Digestive Organs

Stress can narrow blood vessels, reducing circulation to your gut. This can affect digestion and nutrient uptake and even cause nausea.

 

5. Affects Appetite and Eating Habits

Chronic stress can lead to:

  • Overeating or binge-eating (stress eating)

  • Loss of appetite

  • Cravings for unhealthy, sugary, or fatty foods
     

Both overeating and undereating can negatively impact digestion and gut health.

 

Common Digestive Symptoms of Chronic Stress

If you’re frequently stressed, you may notice signs like:

  • Frequent stomachaches

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Constipation or diarrhea

  • Acid reflux or heartburn

  • Unexplained bloating

  • Feeling full too soon or loss of appetite
     

These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored — your body is trying to tell you something.

 

Tips to Protect Your Digestive Health During Stress

Now that we know how chronic stress affects your digestive health, let’s look at practical ways to manage stress and support your gut.

 

1. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

  • Try deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation.

  • Even 10 minutes a day can calm your nervous system.

 

2. Eat Gut-Friendly Foods

  • Add probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi) to improve gut flora.

  • Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  • Stay hydrated.

 

3. Exercise Regularly

  • Physical activity reduces stress hormones and boosts mood.

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.

 

4. Sleep Well

  • Poor sleep increases stress and harms digestion.

  • Stick to a routine: 7–9 hours of sleep per night.
     

5. Talk It Out

  • Don’t bottle things up — speak with a friend, family member, or therapist.

  • Stress management often starts with emotional release.
     

6. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol

  • These can irritate the stomach and worsen stress levels.

  • Opt for herbal teas or warm water with lemon.

 

When to See a Doctor

If your digestive symptoms persist even after stress management techniques, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Conditions like ulcers, IBS, or food intolerances may need medical attention.

 

Final Thoughts

Your gut and mind are deeply connected. What you feel mentally can show up physically — especially in your digestive system. By understanding this link, you can take steps to reduce stress and improve both your mental and gut health. A balanced lifestyle, rich diet, and mindfulness can make a huge difference in your well-being.

 

Conclusion

Ignoring stress doesn't just affect your mood — it disrupts your digestion, weakens your immunity, and decreases your quality of life. So take charge today: breathe deeply, eat well, and be kind to your body. Because now you know exactly how chronic stress affects your digestive health.

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