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Polycythemia Vera
Urgent
Polycythemia vera is a chronic blood disorder in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells. The increased number of blood cells can make the blood thicker and increase the risk of blood clots. Some people also have increased white blood cells or platelets. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, itching after a warm bath, fatigue, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Polycythemia vera requires ongoing medical care because increased blood-cell production can raise the risk of blood clots and bleeding. Seek prompt assessment for new headaches, visual changes, unusual bleeding, or worsening symptoms. Emergency medical attention is needed for sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, severe chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, severe abdominal pain, or other symptoms suggesting a stroke, heart attack, or major clot.
Symptoms
3
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Polycythemia vera is a chronic blood disorder in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells. The increased number of blood cells can make the blood thicker and increase the risk of blood clots. Some people also have increased white blood cells or platelets. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, itching after a warm bath, fatigue, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
Symptoms 3
Bleeding Gums
Dizziness
Headache
Causes 3
Polycythemia vera is usually caused by an acquired genetic change in blood-forming cells, most commonly a mutation affecting the JAK2 gene. The mutation causes the bone marrow to produce blood cells excessively. It is generally not inherited from parents. The abnormal blood-cell production develops during a person's lifetime and is different from secondary polycythemia, in which another condition or low oxygen level causes increased red blood cell production.
Autoimmune Disorder
Chronic Disease
Genetics
Risk Factors
The risk of polycythemia vera increases with age and is uncommon in children and young adults. It occurs somewhat more often in men than women. Having certain blood disorders or related genetic changes may be associated with increased risk. Unlike secondary polycythemia, lifestyle factors such as smoking or living at high altitude are not the direct cause of polycythemia vera, although they can increase red blood cell counts for other reasons.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis involves a complete blood count showing an increased red blood cell level and may also show increased white blood cells or platelets. Healthcare professionals may measure erythropoietin levels and test blood cells for JAK2 mutations. Additional evaluation may include examination of the bone marrow and assessment for other causes of an elevated red blood cell count. The diagnosis is based on laboratory findings together with the clinical and medical history.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no established way to prevent polycythemia vera because it usually results from acquired genetic changes that cannot be predicted or avoided
Early evaluation of persistent abnormal blood counts can help identify the disorder and reduce complications
People with the condition should follow medical treatment and recommendations aimed at reducing blood clot risk, avoid tobacco exposure, and seek urgent care for symptoms that may indicate a serious clotting complication
Prevention Guidance
There is no established way to prevent polycythemia vera because it usually results from acquired genetic changes that cannot be predicted or avoided. Early evaluation of persistent abnormal blood counts can help identify the disorder and reduce complications. People with the condition should follow medical treatment and recommendations aimed at reducing blood clot risk, avoid tobacco exposure, and seek urgent care for symptoms that may indicate a serious clotting complication.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Vegetables
Support cardiovascular health.
Whole Grains
Provide balanced nutrition.
Fruits
Rich in antioxidants.
Foods to Avoid
Iron Supplements Without Advice
May worsen blood thickness.
Excess Alcohol
May increase complications.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A blood disorder causing excessive red blood cell production.
Headache, dizziness and fatigue are common.
Genetic mutations affecting bone marrow cells are responsible.
Blood tests and genetic testing are used.
Yes, with regular medical treatment and monitoring.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.