Too many red blood cells

Where do too many red blood cells come from?

If the number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in a blood sample is too high, this is called polyglobulia.

If there is a permanent lack of oxygen in the... Body is present, this increase in red blood cells can occur. This lack of oxygen stimulates the body to produce more red blood cells in the bone marrow. The red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen in the body and so the body tries to compensate for this deficiency. However, the body itself reduces production again when the deficiency situation is balanced out again.

Some athletes take advantage of this effect by training at high altitudes in the “thin” air in order to then have an advantage in competitions at normal altitude.

However, if it is an “internal” lack of oxygen, it may be due to a weak heart or lung disease. Strong

Smoke can be the cause of a permanent lack of oxygen.

In rare cases, a gene mutation can also be responsible for the blood not being formed normally, but here are Not only are there too many red blood cells, but also the white ones (myeloproliferative ones). Illness). The doctor can tell this from the blood count.

How do the symptoms appear?

People who suffer from polyglobulia often show the following symptoms:

• a red face, even without much physical exertion
• Dizziness and ringing in the ears
• Headache
• itching, which can appear all over the body and get worse when bathing or showering
• Tendency to embolism and thrombosis

What can you do if you suspect polyglobulia?

Anyone who suspects that they have too many red blood cells should definitely see a doctor. He can use a blood count to decide whether there is a need for action and what the therapy will look like.

• If the polyglobulia was caused by a longer stay at high altitudes, the problem will resolve itself if you spend some time at “normal level” again.
• However, if the causes arise from heart failure, the treating doctor will refer you to a cardiologist for a detailed clarification of the weakness.
• Likewise if it is a lung disease. Here the pulmonologist will carry out tests and decide whether the polyglobulia is a consequence of the malfunction of the lungs. People who have lung problems due to heavy smoking should urgently quit.
• If the condition that causes you to have too many red blood cells cannot be treated, it may be necessary be that you have to have a bloodletting carried out at regular intervals as determined by the treating doctor. This is where some blood is drained, so to speak. You may also need to take blood thinners Medication is prescribed.

Blood that is too thick, as is popularly known as polyglobulia, is dangerous in terms of thrombosis and vascular occlusion. The blood clots too quickly and too much and small clots can form which can lead to major problems.

If you suspect that you are suffering from polyglobulia, it is important to check with your doctor using a blood test and then discuss how to proceed.