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Polycythemia Vera: Just been diagnosed
Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: 6 hours ago | Replies (400)Comment receiving replies
I’m reading so many have PV yet it’s considered rare blood cancer. Like you, I never have had health issues or been on medication. I am 69 white female. Was told I have PV three weeks ago. Having weekly phlebotomy and on Hydroxyurea 1000mg daily. My hematocrit number was higher than any my doctor has seen. 69.5 I feel the same healthy person I’ve always been. No symptoms here. Yet my life is now changing because I’m told to take medicine which I use gloves to take!! So many tests to undergo now. My EKG was fine so I’m scheduled next for a full body Cat Scan. Pray I don’t have anything wrong internally. I’ll pray for you. Hugs
Replies to "I’m reading so many have PV yet it’s considered rare blood cancer. Like you, I never..."
my hematologist and I discussed hydroxyurea but decided ideal way to go is only baby aspirin and phlebotomy, which currently is every 3-4 months, based on my hemoglobin number. They still run my other numbers, of course, but my hemo guy really only pays attention to the Hgb number- I determined that watching a mellow concert on YouTube during my phlebotomy is a good way to go so the night prior am sure to have my laptop charged and the wired headphones are always in my laptop case. A positive mental attitude is essential in all of this. Good diet, exercise, and supportive friends and family are important as well
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Sounds like we are on the same journey. I'm in the beginning of all this, haven't done scans or any of that yet. I know it's coming. Wish I had more support from the husband. Sigh. I wait to hear from you and hope all will continue to go well. Carol