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@blondie65

Hi everyone I just started taking hydroxyurea it’s only been a week. I’m on 500 one per day. I feel a little nauseous but that’s all. I’m confused my Doctor said I have ET but also said I have polycythemia Vera. I have been reading and from what I have read you either have one or the other but not both at the sametime. I’m going to discuss this with him on my next visit. Do any of you have any imput on this?

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Replies to "Hi everyone I just started taking hydroxyurea it’s only been a week. I’m on 500 one..."

Hi @blondie65. Blood conditions can get a little confusing. It is possible to have both PV and ET. I recently replied to two other members who share your diagnosis, @rubles and @taisaint.
Here are the links to both similar replies where you’ll find information on the Myeloproliferative Disorder that causes PV and ET.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/950331/
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https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/967884/
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These were found in this discussion group:
Essential Thrombocythemia: Looking for information and support
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/essential-thrombocythemia-4/
I hope the information is helpful! Were you having symptoms prior to being diagnosed?

Initially I was diagnosed with ET. This diagnosis was made based on my high platelets and a suspect bone marrow biopsy that was not a good specimen. So I trusted my doctor and went along with treatment, which at first was phlebotomy and baby aspirin. My hematocrit was 48 and platelets would not be controlled so I was soon placed on Hydrea. I always felt better after a Phlebotomy which would reduce my hematocrit to around 30. Was like letting some air out of an overfilled balloon. My white count also was not in control. So I decided it was time to see an MPN Specialist. I found one at the University of Michigan. He changed my diagnosis to PV. After 10 years on Hydrea, it just was no longer controlling much so I was fortunate to start Jakafi. It’s much better at controlling my numbers and I feel so much better. I still must take 500mg of Hydrea as well to help control my platelets which were over a million even while taking Jakafi. So in my case I guess you can say I have both ET and PV but after an additional BMB my doctor concludes that my diagnosis is PV. Find an MPN Specialist… even if you must drive a distance. It’s important. You can still maintain your local doctor but having a specialist consult in your case will help.