Why do I need an RDW test?Your health care provider may have ordered a complete blood count, which includes an RDW test, as part of a routine exam, or if you have:Symptoms of anemia, including weakness, dizziness, pale skin, and cold hands and feetA family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia or other inherited blood disorderA chronic illness such as Crohn's disease, diabetes or HIV/AIDSA diet low in iron and mineralsA long-term infectionExcessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure
