Erythrocytosis2025-05-20T13:54:18+01:00

Erythrocytosis

Erythrocytosis is a condition in which your body produces too many red blood cells (RBCs). This increases the thickness (viscosity) of your blood, making it harder to flow smoothly through your blood vessels and increasing the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes.

It is sometimes referred to as polycythaemia, especially when caused by bone marrow disorders.

Erythrocytosis Overview

Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Causes

Erythrocytosis can be primary (due to a problem in the bone marrow) or secondary (due to another condition or factor).

Primary Erythrocytosis
Polycythaemia vera (PV) is a A rare blood cancer caused by a mutation in the JAK2 gene, leading to uncontrolled RBC production.Secondary Erythrocytosis

  • Chronic low oxygen (hypoxia) due to lung disease (e.g. COPD), sleep apnoea or living at high altitudes

  • Tumours producing erythropoietin (EPO) from kidney, liver, or adrenal gland tumours

  • Kidney disease

  • Anabolic steroid use

  • Congenital heart disease

  • Smoking

  • Dehydration (relative erythrocytosis)

Symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Blurred vision
  • Red or flushed skin (especially face)
  • Itching (particularly after a hot shower – in PV)
  • Fatigue
  • High blood pressure
  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)

If left, untreated may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke or a heart attack.

Risk Factors

Genetic erythrocytosis can run in families associated with the JAK2 gene mutation.

More common in men than women.

Conditions such as chronic lung disease and kidney disorders.

Can Erythrocytosis be prevented?

Primary erythrocytosis cannot be prevented however secondary erythrocytosis can be prevented.

Secondary Erythrocytosis can prevented by managing the underlying condition and maintaining  adequate hydration.

How Chequers can help Diagnose and Treat

Venesection

Patient having an iron infusion by a clinician

An effective treatment for Erythrocytosis.


Stay Connected & Easily Manage Your Bookings

    Preventive, Trusted, and Affordable Healthcare for All

    Chequers Health is a well-known private healthcare provider in Bolton. It is registered with the CQC and trusted by many patients in the Northwest of England. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalised care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and exceptional care.

    Fast Appointments
    Affordable Care
    Consultant-Led Care

    What Our Patients Say

    When my teenage son started to demonstrate signs of aggressiveness and rebelliousness we did not know where to go. The encouragement and feedback which we were given here has transformed all. He is now being taught on how to control his feelings and develop good associations.

    Emily

    Our Clinicians

    At Chequers Health, our specialists blend expertise, compassion, and convenience to deliver the care you deserve. We prioritise quick access and personalised care, ensuring that your health needs are addressed promptly and effectively by trusted professionals.

    Dr Ushma Meswani, BSc. (MBBS), MD, MRCP, FRCPath
    Dr Ushma Meswani, BSc. (MBBS), MD, MRCP, FRCPath
    Dr. Maged Gharib MBChi, MSc, MD, FRCP, FRCPath
    Dr. Maged Gharib MBChi, MSc, MD, FRCP, FRCPath

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When the situation of late night sleep is less than 3 times a week in a period of more than 3 months and interferes with day time life, it could be chronic insomnia.

    Yes. Insomnia is mainly contributed by anxiety, depression, and stress and vise versa. The combined treatment is better.

    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy of Insomnia (CBT-I) is a tried and tested intervention, which assists individuals to modify thoughts and behaviours that do not promote effective sleep.

    Absolutely. With lifestyle modification and therapy, many experience a great improvement; they do not need the sleep pill.

    Yes. There may be times when SSRIs (antidepressants) or Beta-blockers are referred to to deal with the physical symptoms and anxiety.

    Featured Articles

    Stay Connected with Chequers Health Group
    Join our community and be the first to know about updates and receive  insights into how Chequers Health Group continues to provide exceptional and affordable healthcare services.

    Stay updated with the latest training courses and health news sign up for our newsletter today!

    Trustpilot
    Trustpilot

    Chequers Health Group
    Rushlake Drive Bolton, BL1 3RL

    01204 928850

    info@chequershealth.co.uk

    Care Quality Commission logo

    Read our report here

    © Chequers health Group Ltd 2025

    Call Us
    Go to Top