Hemolysis is the process by which red blood cells are broken down or destroyed, leading to the release of hemoglobin into the bloodstream. This can occur naturally as part of the normal aging and recycling of red blood cells, but it can also be caused by factors such as mechanical damage, exposure to heat, chemicals, or certain diseases that affect the red blood cells. Hemolysis is often measured as a percentage of hemoglobin released into the bloodstream, which can indicate the severity and potential complications of the condition causing it.