Understanding High Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Levels

High red blood cell count, also known as polycythemia, occurs when the number of red blood cells in your blood exceeds the normal range. This condition can increase the risk of blood clots and other complications.

What is Considered High RBC?

A red blood cell count above 6.1 * 10^12/L is generally considered high. However, the significance of elevated levels depends on various factors including age, sex, and overall health status.

Common Symptoms

High RBC can manifest in various ways:

Physical Symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Itching (especially after warm showers)
  • Red or purple skin discoloration

Blood-Related Symptoms

  • Easy bruising
  • Bleeding gums
  • Nosebleeds
  • Blood clots
  • Enlarged spleen

Systemic Symptoms

  • High blood pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Joint pain
  • Weakness

Causes of High RBC

Primary Causes

  • Polycythemia vera
  • Genetic mutations
  • Bone marrow disorders
  • Myeloproliferative disorders

Secondary Causes

  • Chronic hypoxia
  • Smoking
  • High altitude living
  • Lung disease
  • Heart disease

Other Causes

  • Dehydration
  • Testosterone therapy
  • EPO (erythropoietin) use
  • Kidney tumors
  • Sleep apnea

Diagnosis

Diagnosing high RBC typically involves:

  1. Medical History

    • Review of symptoms
    • Family history
    • Medication use
    • Lifestyle factors

  2. Physical Examination

    • Vital signs
    • Skin examination
    • Spleen assessment
    • Heart and lung evaluation

  3. Blood Tests

    • Complete blood count (CBC)
    • EPO levels
    • Iron studies
    • Additional specialized tests

Treatment Options

Medical Treatments

  • Phlebotomy (blood removal)
  • Hydroxyurea
  • Interferon
  • JAK2 inhibitors
  • Low-dose aspirin

Lifestyle Changes

  • Smoking cessation
  • Regular exercise
  • Adequate hydration
  • Healthy diet
  • Weight management

Supportive Care

  • Blood pressure monitoring
  • Regular check-ups
  • Symptom management
  • Complication prevention
  • Regular monitoring

Potential Complications

Short-term Effects

  • Blood clots
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness

Long-term Effects

  • Heart failure
  • Organ damage
  • Increased cancer risk
  • Chronic complications
  • Reduced quality of life

Prevention

To prevent high RBC levels:

  1. Lifestyle Management

    • Avoid smoking
    • Stay hydrated
    • Regular exercise
    • Healthy diet
    • Weight control

  2. Medical Management

    • Regular check-ups
    • Medication adherence
    • Symptom monitoring
    • Treatment compliance

  3. Risk Reduction

    • Blood pressure control
    • Cholesterol management
    • Diabetes control
    • Regular monitoring

When to See a Doctor

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Persistent high RBC levels
  • Unexplained symptoms
  • Blood clots
  • Severe headaches
  • Vision changes

Additional Resources