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Polycythemia Vera: Just been diagnosed
Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: Aug 26 12:21pm | Replies (395)Comment receiving replies
First time using this. I have not been dx with PV but hemoglobin has been high for a couple years and hematocrit also. Been seeing Hemotologist and had 2 phlebotomies a year apart. He doesn't seem too concerned.
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Good morning, @serenity55 I love your @name of Serenity. It’s a word in my morning affirmations…and what we all wish for in our lives. ☺️
Phlebotomies can be used in conditions where there is an elevated hemoglobin (too many red blood cells) and having a high hematocrit number which measures the portion of red blood cells in your body.
Blood is removed from the body to lower that count to normal. Too many red blood cells can cause a host of issues, the biggest concern being blood clots. It can also lead to other blood cancers. So, I’m scratching my head a little as to why your hematologist isn’t concerned about your condition.
I’ve posted a link to the Mayo Clinic website so you can read a little more about Polycythemia Vera. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polycythemia-vera/symptoms-causes/syc-20355850
My concern is that without a diagnosis just removing the excess blood from you body isn’t telling you the entire story of what’s causing the higher manufacturing in the first place.
Have you had another other tests run besides your CBC to check for a genetic mutation such as JAK2 which can cause Polycythemia Vera? Has your hematologist suggested a daily aspirin to avoid clotting? How often do you see him for blood work?