What Is Polycythemia Vera? Understanding This Blood Disorder
Published: Aug 07, 2024
Polycythemia vera (PV) is a rare blood disorder where your body makes too many red blood cells. This can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
Contents
What Causes Polycythemia Vera?
PV is caused by a genetic mutation in blood-forming cells in your bone marrow. This mutation makes these cells produce too many red blood cells, even when your body doesn't need them. Think of it like a faucet that won't turn off - your bone marrow keeps making red blood cells non-stop.
What Are the Symptoms?
Common symptoms of PV include itchy skin, especially after a hot shower, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. You might also experience redness or a burning sensation in your hands or feet. Some people have an enlarged spleen, which can cause pain or fullness in the left side of the abdomen.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose PV through blood tests that measure your red blood cell count and check for the genetic mutation associated with PV. They may also do a bone marrow biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. It's like detective work - your doctor is looking for clues in your blood and bone marrow to solve the mystery of your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
PV is not curable, but it's manageable with proper treatment.
There's a small risk PV can progress to leukemia, but it's not common.
Treatment frequency varies, but regular check-ups are important.
Many people with PV live normal lives with proper management.
Key Takeaways
While PV is a chronic condition, with proper care and management, many people lead full, active lives.
Wondering if your symptoms might be PV? Talk to Doctronic about getting tested and exploring treatment options.Related Articles
References
Tefferi A, Barbui T. Polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia: 2021 update on diagnosis, risk-stratification and management. Am J Hematol. 2020;95(12):1599-1613.
Marchioli R, Finazzi G, Specchia G, et al. Cardiovascular events and intensity of treatment in polycythemia vera. N Engl J Med. 2013;368(1):22-33.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.