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The Rare but Serious Complications of True Polycythemia

True polycythemia, also known as polycythemia vera, is a rare blood disorder that causes the body to produce too many red blood cells. This article discusses the rare but serious complications that can occur with true polycythemia by Jaylee Kemp
Estimated reading time: 3 min 5 sec
The Rare but Serious Complications of True Polycythemia Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels

True polycythemia, also known as polycythemia vera, is a rare blood disorder that causes the body to produce too many red blood cells.

While some people with this condition may have no symptoms, others can experience a range of complications that can be serious and even life-threatening if left untreated. Here are some of the rare but serious complications of true polycythemia:.

Blood Clots

When there are too many red blood cells in the blood, the blood becomes thick and sticky. This can increase the risk of blood clots, which can cause a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.

Blood clots can also form in the veins in the arms, legs, and other parts of the body, leading to pain, swelling, and other complications.

Bleeding

While the blood thickens in true polycythemia, it can also affect the function of platelets, which help the blood clot.

This can lead to bleeding, with symptoms ranging from nosebleeds and easy bruising to gastrointestinal bleeding and even hemorrhages in the brain.

Gout

A buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can be a result of true polycythemia, can lead to gout. Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain, tenderness, and swelling in the joints, particularly in the big toe.

Over time, gout can damage the joints and lead to complications such as kidney stones and kidney disease.

Enlarged Spleen

True polycythemia can cause the spleen to enlarge, a condition known as splenomegaly. The spleen is an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen that helps filter the blood and fight infections.

When the spleen enlarges, it can cause pain and discomfort, and it can also affect the production of blood cells and platelets.

Heart Failure

Excess red blood cells can put a strain on the heart, leading to an increased risk of heart failure.

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Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, and rapid heartbeat.

Leukemia

Although rare, true polycythemia can increase the risk of developing leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Leukemia can cause symptoms such as fatigue, fever, chills, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes.

Bone Marrow Fibrosis

True polycythemia can also cause bone marrow fibrosis, a condition in which the bone marrow is replaced by scar tissue.

This can make it harder for the bone marrow to produce blood cells, leading to complications such as anemia and a weakened immune system.

High Blood Pressure

Excess red blood cells can also increase blood pressure, a condition known as hypertension. Hypertension can damage the blood vessels and organs, leading to complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

Thrombocythemia

Some people with true polycythemia may also develop thrombocythemia, a condition in which there are too many platelets in the blood.

Thrombocythemia can increase the risk of blood clots and bleeding, and it can also cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and visual disturbances.

Carcinoma

In rare cases, true polycythemia can be a result of a carcinoma, a type of cancer. Carcinomas can develop in the kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, or other parts of the body, and they can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue.

Conclusion

While true polycythemia is a rare condition, it can cause a range of serious and even life-threatening complications.

People with this condition should work closely with a healthcare professional to manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment may include medications to reduce the production of red blood cells, phlebotomy to remove excess blood, and other therapies to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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