Illustration showing damaged and misshapen erythrocytes, or red blood cells (rbcs), affected by haemolysis, with healthy rbcs (biconcave disc-shaped) in the background. Haemolysis is a broad term for the rupture of red blood cells. This is a natural process, occurring as the body disposes of old or damaged rbcs to make room for new ones. When it occurs excessively, or in an uncontrolled manner it can cause health problems as the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood will be reduced. Infections, medication and immune conditions are some of the reasons this can occur. Treatment varies but can involve supplements, dietary changes and blood transfusions.