Polycythemia Vera: When Too Many Red Blood Cells Become a Problem!
Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a rare blood disorder in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, leading to thicker blood, increased clot risk, and potential organ damage. It is classified as a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) and can progress to leukemia if untreated.
✅ Causes & Risk Factors
🔹 Causes:
✔️ Genetic Mutation (JAK2 gene mutation is present in 95% of cases).
✔️ Primary PV: Caused by the bone marrow disorder itself.
✔️ Secondary PV: Can be triggered by chronic hypoxia (e.g., lung disease, high altitude).
🔹 Risk Factors:
✅ Age Over 60 (though it can occur at any age).
✅ Male Gender (higher prevalence).
✅ Family History of Myeloproliferative Disorders.
✅ Symptoms to Watch For 🚨
✔️ Headaches & Dizziness
✔️ Itchy Skin (Especially After Hot Showers)
✔️ Red or Flushed Skin (Plethora)
✔️ Unusual Blood Clots or Bleeding
⚠️ Serious Complications: Stroke, heart attack, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
✅ How Doctors Diagnose It
📌 Key Investigations:
🔹 Complete Blood Count (CBC): Shows elevated red blood cell count.
🔹 JAK2 Mutation Test: Confirms the diagnosis.
🔹 Bone Marrow Biopsy: Assesses the extent of abnormal cell production.
🔹 Erythropoietin Levels: Low in primary PV but high in secondary PV.
✅ Best Treatment & Prevention Strategies
💊 Treatment:
✔️ Phlebotomy: Regular blood removal to reduce red cell mass.
✔️ Low-Dose Aspirin: Prevents clot formation.
✔️ Cytoreductive Therapy (e.g., Hydroxyurea for high-risk patients).
✔️ JAK2 Inhibitors (e.g., Ruxolitinib): For resistant cases.
🥗 Prevention & Lifestyle Changes:
✅ Stay Hydrated to Improve Blood Flow.
✅ Exercise Regularly to Reduce Clot Risk.
✅ Avoid Smoking & Alcohol (which increase clotting risk).
✅ Essential Patient Care Tips
✔️ Regular Blood Monitoring is essential.
✔️ Avoid Iron Supplements unless prescribed.
✔️ Watch for Signs of Clots (Leg Swelling, Chest Pain, Sudden Weakness).
✔️ Discuss Treatment Options with a Hematologist if symptoms worsen.
⚡ Early detection and management can prevent life-threatening complications!
📢 Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
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