Why Do I Have Too Many Red Blood Cells? Causes of Erythrocytosis Explained
Why Do I Have Too Many Red Blood Cells? Causes of Erythrocytosis Explained
Getting to the Root
Erythrocytosis, or having too many red blood cells, can stem from various causes. Understanding these can help you and your doctor pinpoint the underlying issue and determine the best course of action.
Contents
- Primary Erythrocytosis: When Your Bone Marrow Goes Rogue
- Secondary Erythrocytosis: Your Body's Response to Low Oxygen
- Tumor-Related Erythrocytosis: When Cancer Plays a Role
- Other Causes: Medications and More
Primary Erythrocytosis: When Your Bone Marrow Goes Rogue
Primary erythrocytosis occurs when there's a problem with your bone marrow, the factory where blood cells are made. The most common form is polycythemia vera, caused by a mutation in the JAK2 gene. This mutation makes your bone marrow produce too many red blood cells, even when your body doesn't need them. Other rare genetic conditions can also cause primary erythrocytosis by affecting how your body regulates red blood cell production.
Secondary Erythrocytosis: Your Body's Response to Low Oxygen
Secondary erythrocytosis happens when your body produces more red blood cells in response to low oxygen levels. This can be due to living at high altitudes, where the air is thinner. Lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea can also trigger this response. Some heart conditions that reduce blood oxygen levels may lead to secondary erythrocytosis too. Smoking is another common cause, as it reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood.
Tumor-Related Erythrocytosis: When Cancer Plays a Role
In rare cases, certain tumors can cause erythrocytosis by producing too much erythropoietin (EPO), the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Kidney cancers, liver tumors, and some brain tumors are known to sometimes cause this. It's important to note that while this is a possibility, it's not common, and having erythrocytosis doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer.
Other Causes: Medications and More
Some medications can cause erythrocytosis as a side effect. For example, testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids can boost red blood cell production. Certain kidney diseases and post-kidney transplant conditions can also lead to erythrocytosis. In some cases, the cause might be a combination of factors or remain unknown, which doctors call idiopathic erythrocytosis.
FAQs
Can stress cause erythrocytosis?
Chronic stress may contribute, but it's rarely the sole cause.
Is erythrocytosis always serious?
Not always, but it can lead to complications if left untreated.
Can diet affect red blood cell count?
Yes, a diet very high in iron could potentially contribute to erythrocytosis.
Is erythrocytosis more common in men or women?
It's slightly more common in men, especially polycythemia vera.
Can dehydration cause erythrocytosis?
Severe dehydration can cause a temporary increase in red blood cell concentration.
Piecing the Puzzle
Identifying the cause of erythrocytosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of your health.
Additional References
- Keohane C, McMullin MF, Harrison C. The diagnosis and management of erythrocytosis. BMJ 2013; 347:f6667.
- Prchal JT, Sokol L. "Benign erythrocytosis" and other familial and congenital polycythemias. Eur J Haematol 1996; 57:263.
- Weaver LK. Clinical practice. Carbon monoxide poisoning. N Engl J Med 2009; 360:1217.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.