High Red Blood Cell Count

A high red blood cell count, also known as erythrocytosis or polycythemia, is a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells.

Causes

• Primary Polycythemia: A rare disorder where the bone marrow overproduces red blood cells due to a genetic mutation.
• Secondary Polycythemia: Caused by external factors such as:
  • High altitude
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney tumors or cysts
  • Testosterone replacement therapy
• Other Causes: Dehydration, smoking, and certain medications such as erythropoietin (EPO) can also lead to a high red blood cell count.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms of a high red blood cell count include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Itching or tingling sensations
• Redness or flushing of the skin
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath

Diagnosis

A high red blood cell count is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the levels of different components in the blood, including red blood cells.

Treatment

Treatment for a high red blood cell count depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Phlebotomy: Removing excess blood to reduce the number of red blood cells.
• Medications: To reduce the production of red blood cells or treat underlying conditions.
• Lifestyle Changes: Such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and managing stress.

Complications

If left untreated, a high red blood cell count can lead to complications such as:

• Blood clots
• Stroke or heart attack
• Kidney damage
• Increased risk of cancer