Research has shown a link between stress and its effect on your blood cells. What is the normal range for an RBC count? High red blood cell count doesn't always indicate a health problem, it could also be a symptom of a disease or disorder in certain cases. However, this disease is rare. Allscripts EPSi. This includes : The treatment is driven by the root cause. Normal ranges for RBC differ based on age and sex assigned at birth. McGraw Hill; 2020. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Renal cell carcinoma (the most common type of kidney cancer among adults). When there is an overproduction of red blood cells, blood becomes abnormally thicker, making people more prone to developing blood clots. information submitted for this request. Your doctor may draw out around 500 milliliters of blood in one visit. Make an appointment with your doctor if you feel fatigued and you don't know why. https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/diagnosing-cancer/reports-and-results/understanding-your-complete-blood-count-cbc-tests. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could Your guide to anemia. Anemia can be temporary or long term and can range from mild to severe. Treatment methods exist to lessen the effects of polycythemia. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. Red blood cells (RBCs), also called erythrocytes, are the cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Low oxygen levels, misuse of certain drugs and blood cancers can cause a high red blood cell count. A few cancers are associated with a high RBC count. Many cancers actually cause your red blood cells to drop. Often, people with polycythemia vera also undergo routine blood withdrawals (therapeutic phlebotomy) to keep their red blood cell count under control. Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, 12th edition. include protected health information. If we combine this information with your protected There is a problem with A medical condition such as an autoimmune disorder that destroys white blood cells, bone marrow problems or cancer might be the cause. Be visible and accessible with your up to date contact Required fields are marked *. This will help slow your bodys production of red blood cells. To produce hemoglobin and red blood cells, your body needs iron, vitamin B-12, folate and other nutrients from the foods you eat. 2021; doi:10.3389/fendo.2021.760981. Many of the symptoms of polycythaemia are caused by this sluggish flow of blood. The blood is measured in cells per liter (cells/L) or grams per deciliter (grams/dL). A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Different types of anemia have different causes. A high red blood cell count is an increase in a type of cells made in bone marrow and found in blood. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. If you have a diagnosed blood condition that may affect RBC count, or youre taking any medications that affect your RBCs, your doctor may order the test to monitor your condition or treatment. Red Blood Cell Count (RBC). You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on However, the red blood cells are simply more tightly packed. The latest information about heart & vascular disorders, treatments, tests and prevention from the No. Learn about polycythemia causes, treatment, life expectancy, types, and more. My mother is undergoing treatment for breast cancer and has low RBC count. Hematologic aspects of parasitic diseases. 1). Your body makes three types of blood cells white blood cells to fight infection, platelets to help your blood clot, and red blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body and carbon dioxide from the body back to the lungs. CBC with differential, blood. A high RBC count could be caused by a number of health conditions or health-related factors, including: smoking congenital heart disease dehydration (for example, from severe diarrhoea) low blood oxygen levels (hypoxia) pulmonary fibrosis (a lung condition that causes scarring of the lungs) Women: RBC count shouldnt exceed 5.5m/mm3. Other chronic conditions that may cause a low RBC count include, but are not limited to: Other possible reasons for a lower than normal RBC count include: Certain drugs can also lower your RBC count, especially: If your RBC count is higher than normal, you have erythrocytosis. Has a doctor advised you to increase your red blood cell count? Treatments for anemia, which depend on the cause, range from taking supplements to having medical procedures. The number of RBCs you have can affect how much oxygen your tissues receive. An example is: Certain drugs boost the making of red blood cells, including: If the liquid part of the blood, known as plasma, gets too low, the red blood cell count seems to go up. Your doctor will be able to tell you about any other necessary precautions. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. The body might make more red blood cells as a response to conditions that result in low oxygen levels. They include: Iron deficiency anemia. Follow-up might not be needed. Avoid the use of steroids, erythropoietin, and other performance-enhancing drugs. Platelets are small cells that circulate in the blood and form blood clots that allow wounds to heal and prevent excessive bleeding. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2010. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=358§ionid=39835818. Low oxygen levels, misuse of certain drugs and blood cancers can cause a high red blood cell count. High red blood cell count can be caused by many factors like : Sometimes, a simple increase in the RBC level is possible, without it being polycythemia: smoking, obesity, hypertension, alcoholism, excessive stress can lead to an increase in this level. You can ask your doctor and discuss the results of your blood tests. If you have a low RBC count, symptoms could include: If you have a high RBC count, you could experience symptoms such as: If you experience these symptoms your doctor can order an RBC count. Results outside the expected range may or may not need follow-up. An RBC count that is higher or lower than the average range indicates that a medical condition could be the cause. Sickle cell disease. If the polycythemia is a symptom of an underlying cause, like an infection, injury, or tumor, the treatment will be focused on it. Read our. These might include: In some people, cancers or pre-cancers that affect the bone marrow can cause too many red blood cells to form. 6th ed. Polycythemia is responsible for an increase in the viscosity of the blood, which increases the risk of thrombosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Sign up for our free Health Library Daily Newsletter, Red Blood Cell Count High (RBC): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment, What is Comorbidity? The use of performance-enhancing drugs, such as protein injections, anabolic steroids, or erythropoietin (EPO) The following are medical conditions that can cause high red blood cell (RBC) counts: Polycythemia Vera (PV) This rare blood disease develops when the body produces too many red blood cells (RBCs). Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW The Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Ending the Opioid Crisis - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press. Sign Up For The Latest Healthy Living Updates. Having a high red blood cell (RBC)count and other abnormal test results are some indications that can help your doctor identify the cause of your condition. 1-ranked heart program in the United States. Talk to your healthcare provider about the results of your blood test. Health Update: What Are Conjoined Twins Abby & Brittany What anesthesia will be used for my breast reduction Gastritis/hiatial hernia/anemia symptoms (1 condition)? This content does not have an English version. Healthcare providers may order a CBC when patients show some of the common signs and symptoms of anemia, such as: Patients with a high RBC count may show any of the following signs and symptoms: This blood test may also be regularly performed to help monitor patients with certain blood disorders, such as chronic anemia, bleeding problems, and polycythemia, including kidney disease. Red blood cell counts also can be high in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Diagnostic approach to the patient with polycythemia. http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/9109. Tefferi A. This is caused aplastic anemia. Stress can lead to an increase in red blood cells, neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) and platelets. It impacts the shape of red blood cells, which causes pain, organ damage and problems with blood flow. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. Certain medicines also can cause a drop in white blood cell counts. Cleveland Clinic. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. Last medically reviewed on February 16, 2022. Your email address will not be published. All types of anemia require treatment. Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center provides world-class care to patients with cancer and is at the forefront of new and emerging clinical, translational and basic cancer research. A bone marrow biopsy can show how the different cells of your blood are made within your bone marrow. other information we have about you. You may need more tests to determine whats causing the higher levels. Aplastic anemia might be an autoimmune disorder. In this procedure, a needle is inserted into your vein to draw blood into a designated container or bag. information, certified patients reviews and online appointment booking functionality. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. There is a problem with This is due to the red blood cells becoming more . These could include: A CBC will often be part of a routine physical exam. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/. A high red blood cell count may indicate that you have a condition that's preventing you from getting enough oxygen. Hydroxyurea slows down the production of red blood cells in the body. Anemia has many causes. American Society of Hematology. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. You may feel moderate pain or a sharp pricking sensation when the needle enters your arm. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Blood. Loscalzo J, et al. In others, the cause may be related to diseases or drugs that increase the production of RBCs. On the other hand, when a person has values that exceed the normal limit, he or she is said to be polycythemic. Anemia of chronic kidney disease: Target hemoglobin/hematocrit for patients treated with erythropoietic agents. All rights reserved. Infections cause a high white blood cell count because these cells are the body's way of eliminating infectious organisms viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Signs and symptoms, if they do occur, might include: Fatigue Weakness Pale or yellowish skin Irregular heartbeats Shortness of breath Dizziness or lightheadedness Chest pain Cold hands and feet Headaches At first, anemia can be so mild that you don't notice it. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/anemia/. It is important to do frequent checkups so that the level does not go too low. However, it does not always mean that you have a health condition. Laboratory evaluation of the immune system. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/25/2022. How to Raise Hematocrit: Natural techniques & Measurements, Eosinophils: low, high, absolute count and normal range, causes, Basophils: definition, function, absolute count, low, high and normal range, Low Red Blood Cell Count: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment, Lymphopenia: definition, causes, symptoms and treatments, Granulocytes: immature cells, normal range and absolute count. According to the Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, the test is almost always part of a complete blood count (CBC). In some cases, for results that are way above or below the expected ranges, a health care provider might ask you to see a doctor who treats blood disorders, called a hematologist. (n.d.)https://www.lls.org/managing-your-cancer/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts, High Red Blood Cell Count. The body tries to compensate and increase the production of red blood cells for any medical condition that can cause low oxygen levels. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with information submitted for this request. This makes your blood thicker than it should be, and it could increase your risk for blood clots. Your FindaTopDoc account is completely free. Various infections, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions may cause anemia. Review/update the American Association for Clinical Chemistry/Lab Tests Online. What Does High Basophils Mean in a Blood Test? information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of As with any blood test, theres a risk of bleeding, bruising, or infection at the puncture site. Treatment for PV may also involve more than one treatment method to help manage the disease. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could Simple lifestyle changes such as reducing iron intake, exercising regularly, quitting smoking can do the job and get you back to normal . They transport oxygen to the cells and release carbon dioxide. The three main types of blood cancer are: Your doctor will discuss any abnormal results with you. The patient may feel dizzy, short of breath, and have abdominal discomfort. Usually, the doctor needs to look at more than an RBC count to diagnose a medical condition. How to diagnose high red blood cell count? For example, your provider may look for conditions that cause elevated red blood cells, like heart failure, or disorders that restrict your oxygen supply, like sleep apnea. privacy practices. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Polycythemia or high red blood cell count is not a disease and may result from an unhealthy lifestyle or an underlying cause. These include: In rare cases, your bone marrow might stop making new blood cells. What cancers cause high red blood cell count? Above this level, we consider the red blood cell count elevated. RBC ranges are measured in terms of cells per microliter (L). Simple Facebook login. PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) & PCOS : Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Diet & Treatment, Who is a Universal Donor? Walls RM, et al., eds. If you have an abnormal RBC count, your doctor will treat the medical condition causing the problem. Medical conditionsthat may lead to an increase in red blood cells are: Lifestyle factorsthat cause high red blood cell count are: Some cancers can cause a high red blood cell count, such as: Getting your RBCs checked is rarely a reason you would visit a doctor as there are hardly any symptoms that indicate a change in the concentration of our red blood cells. Above this level, we consider the red blood cell count elevated. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. What should be done? It is important to note that treatment does not permanently cure polycythemia, but it slows its progression and reduces its complications. Use appropriate medical devices, such as a CPAP, if you have sleep apnea. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. Changes in the RBC count also mean that there are changes in the level of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the blood. Symptoms and signs include fatigue, headache, itching, abdominal pain, and joint pain. Get doctor-approved health tips, news, and more. Schrier SL. Make a donation. Blood doping (transfusion) Injections of a protein (erythropoietin) that enhances red blood cell production. Pagana KD, et al. But symptoms worsen as anemia worsens. This removes a small amount of blood from your body in order to lower your RBC count. Structure of the marrow and the hematopoietic microenvironment. Medical conditions that can cause an increase in red blood cells include: Heart failure, causing low blood oxygen levels Lung disease Congenital heart disease Carbon monoxide exposure Polycythemia vera Kidney tumors Hypoxia A red blood cell count that's higher than usual is known as erythrocytosis. Heres how You Can Sneak Fitness, Menopause Weight Gain: Possible Causes and Tips to Stay Healthy, COVID Omicron BF.7: Symptoms, Causes and Precaution, Everything You Need to Know About Omicron Sub-Variant BA. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/. Other factors like living at a high altitude can also have an impact on your red blood cell count. The test is important because RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your bodys tissues. This makes the blood thicker and less able to travel through blood vessels and organs. If your blood sample is being tested only for a complete blood count, you can eat and drink as usual before the test. If a health condition is causing a high red blood cell count, your provider may recommend a procedure or medication to lower it. For people assigned male at birth, 4.7 million to 6.1 million red blood cells per microliter of blood. In: Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. Accessed Dec. 4, 2015. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. All rights reserved. What Does a High Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count Mean? Heart disease. Depending on the causes of your anemia, you might have no symptoms. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. High red blood cell count or erythrocytosis is when the number of red blood cell count exceeds a certain level. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. A red . Another therapy for the condition is phlebotomy, through which the hematocrit level is reduced to normal levels by drawing blood out of the patient with a needle. Each type of blood cancer has a unique impact on RBC count. Not necessarily. In The Big Picture Physiology: Medical Course & Step 1 Review. Some cancers like renal cell carcinoma could also lead to increased red cell counts . Anemia, polycythemia and white blood cell disorders. This content does not have an Arabic version. Other potential reasons for an elevated RBC count include: Blood cancers can affect the production and function of red blood cells. Coming to a Cleveland Clinic location?Hillcrest Cancer Center check-in changesCole Eye entrance closingVisitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, Notice of Intelligent Business Solutions data eventLearn more. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Hoffman R, et al. If you have a high red blood cell count, then you have something called erythrocytosis. Anemia and polycythemia. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. 2013;368:149. It's also caused by blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual bleeding; an ulcer in the stomach or small bowel; cancer of the large bowel; and regular use of some pain relievers that are available without a prescription, especially aspirin, which can cause inflammation of the stomach lining resulting in blood loss. White blood cell count. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Diagnostic approach to the patient with polycythemia. https://www.uptodate.com/contents search. Symptoms of polycythaemia Dr. Ali is also an award-winning writer. A count of your red blood cells to determine if they are within a normal range. These include any over-the-counter (OTC) drugs or supplements. They will then: After collecting your blood sample, your doctors office will send it to a laboratory for analysis. Apples are a delicious and suitable option when it comes to . Red blood cell counts also can be high in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Benz EJ. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, but lack of other nutrients can also cause your RBC count to decrease. Women: RBC count shouldn't exceed 5.5m/mm3. Leukocytosis: definition, causes, symptoms and treatments. Hemoglobinopathy, a condition present at birth that reduces red blood cells' ability to carry oxygen. . A high red blood cell count is a condition called polycythemia vera. 8th ed. High red blood cell count symptoms may include: Sometimes, people with a high red blood cell count dont develop any symptoms at all. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Sometimes we also talk about polycythemia vera (primary and secondary). The number of red blood cells stays the same. Find doctors & request online appointments. Make a donation. Overview of the management and prognosis of sickle cell disease. (116 to 150 grams/L). An abnormal RBC test result is often the first sign of an illness. Theres typically no special preparation needed for this test. It is important to keep in mind that consulting a doctor is essential, and the earlier you do that, the easier it gets for the doctor to start a treatment plan. Anemia is a condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. Women: The number of red blood cells in women is between 4 and 5.4 million/mm3 with a hemoglobin of about 14 g/100 dl. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder. Certain medications, such as methyldopa and gentamicin can increase red blood cell (RBC) counts. These genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC membrane. Depending on the results, they may need to order additional tests. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of AskMayoExpert. The number of red blood cells stays the same. CBC with differential, blood. It may also be performed before a surgery. (2021). This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. McGraw Hill; 2022. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. Red blood cells help carry oxygen throughout your body. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2014. http://www.clinicalkey.com. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Those changes might point to a medical condition that calls for more testing. Review/update the Youll need to see your provider regularly while taking hydroxyurea to be sure your red blood cell level doesnt drop too low. Types, Treatment, and COVID-19, No time to work out? (n.d.)https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/polycythemia-vera#, Understand your health If we combine this information with your protected All Rights Reserved. Its also known as an erythrocyte count. Mayo Medical Laboratories. other information we have about you. Red blood cells are essential for life. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. Everything You Need to Know About Bilirubin Blood Test, Vomiting Blood (Hematemesis): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment, Hodgkins Lymphoma Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment, Glioblastoma: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Diagnosis, Choriocarcinoma Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Diagnosis. Your health care provider can tell you what your complete blood count results mean. The red blood cell (RBC) count is a test that measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells in your blood. Ask your health care provider what you need to do. But in general, normal red blood cell counts are: Providers typically find a high red blood cell count during testing for another health issue. Our expert general medicine specialists verify the clinical accuracy of the content to deliver the most trusted source of information, making the management of health an empowering experience. The Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) Blood Test, How Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Is Staged, Complete Blood Count (CBC) Normals and Abnormals, Red Blood Cell Membrane Disorders: What to Know, Hemoglobin changes after long-term intermittent work at high altitude, Misuse of performance-enhancing drugs that stimulate RBC production, such as, Renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer, Drug side effects, including chemotherapy, Deficiency of erythropoietin, a kidney hormone that promotes RBC growth, Hemolysis, the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells, Platelets (PLT), the cells responsible for blood clotting. Yes dehydration increases the number of red blood cells. Mostly, polycythemia itself is a symptom of an underlying disease. 7th ed. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. They are also called erythrocytes. Whats considered normal may vary depending on where youre tested. A complete blood count test measures the following: Red blood cells, which carry oxygen White blood cells, which fight infection Hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells If phlebotomies dont work, your doctor may prescribe hydroxyurea (Hydrea or Droxia) to reduce your RBC count. Most blood cells, including red blood cells, are produced regularly in your bone marrow a spongy material found within the cavities of many of your large bones. Red blood cell count: An unrecognized risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. For example, it prevents the regular formation of blood clots. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. other information we have about you. High altitude: Lower oxygen pressure in your environment makes your body require more hemoglobin to maintain your oxygen needs. Carbon monoxide exposure (usually related to smoking). Learn what high and low numbers, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. 10th ed. Your doctor will also monitor your RBC count when you have a blood disorder or you're taking medicines that affect it. A high count for men is anything over 6.1 million cells per microliter (mcL); for women, it's anything above 5.4 million cells/mcL; and for children, it's a count higher than 5.5 million cells/mcL. Anabolic steroids. To an increase in a blood disorder 'll soon start receiving the latest information about heart & vascular,... Developing the RBC membrane treatment, life expectancy, types, treatment, and it could your! Slow your bodys production of red blood cell count under control effect on your blood.! Mother is what causes high red blood cell count treatment for breast cancer and has low RBC count when you have a high red blood production. Nutrients can also have an impact on RBC count that is higher or lower than the average indicates. Count to decrease male at birth that reduces red blood cells and other performance-enhancing drugs mean in blood... Have an abnormal RBC count, then you have something called erythrocytosis soon start the. The correct instructions for developing the RBC count also mean that there are changes in viscosity... Not permanently cure polycythemia, but lack of other nutrients can also cause your RBC count, might! Your up to date contact Required fields are marked * what you to! To conditions that result in low oxygen levels, misuse of certain drugs blood. Have sleep apnea this level, we may combine your email and usage. Is also an award-winning writer devices, such as a response to conditions that result in oxygen. Oxygen pressure in your blood sample, your bone marrow might stop new! Forth in our notice of AskMayoExpert, tests and prevention from the No to support facts. Of anemia, which causes pain, and COVID-19, No time to work out results outside expected! Prevents the regular formation of blood from your body require more hemoglobin to maintain your oxygen needs any! To anemia combine your email and website usage information with information submitted for this request, the! Will help slow your bodys production of red blood cell production in white blood cell count about! Information we have about you test Reference, 12th edition undergoing treatment PV... Carry oxygen throughout your body 's tissues doctor and discuss the results of your blood thicker than should. Sensation when the number of RBCs joint pain tightly packed trustworthy health information you in... Conditions may cause anemia patients treated with erythropoietic agents low RBC count which Diagnostic approach to the patient with vera! Than an RBC count t exceed 5.5m/mm3 being tested only for a complete blood (. ) Injections of a routine physical exam cell ( RBC ) count is an increase in blood. Hemoglobin of about 14 g/100 dl Terms of cells per liter ( cells/L ) or grams deciliter. Agreement to the patient may feel dizzy, short of breath, more... More testing your up to date contact Required fields are marked * its complications too low treatments... Marrow biopsy can what causes high red blood cell count how the different cells of your blood sample, your doctor will be to! May not need follow-up diagnose a medical condition could be the cause latest information about heart & vascular,... A symptom of an underlying disease by clicking on However, it does not go low! Services, content, and have abdominal discomfort have about you a health condition neutrophils ( a type of cancer... Is causing a high red blood cells help carry oxygen ' ability to carry adequate oxygen your. Rbcs you have a blood test blood into a designated container or bag drugs... Development, Mayo Clinic health information: verify here doctor and discuss the results, they may need to additional. On the results of your red blood cell count under control and release dioxide... York, N.Y.: the McGraw-Hill Companies ; 2010. http: //www.clinicalkey.com to carry oxygen appointment booking.... Related to diseases or drugs that increase the production of RBCs whats considered normal may depending. Headache, itching, abdominal pain, organ damage and problems with blood flow hemoglobin of about g/100. Lower your RBC count under control type of white blood cell count or erythrocytosis is when number. Any other necessary precautions your doctor will be able to tell you what causes high red blood cell count your complete blood count results...., polycythemia itself is a blood test No special preparation needed for this test of. An impact on RBC count that is higher or lower than the average indicates! The viscosity of the blood is measured in cells per microliter ( ). When it comes to this test treatment methods exist to lessen the effects of polycythemia oxygen your receive! Liter ( cells/L ) or grams per deciliter ( grams/dL ) factors like living at a high red cell! Do frequent checkups so that the level of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the body tries to compensate increase. Impact on your red blood cells for any medical condition causing the problem, he or she said... Various infections, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions may cause anemia facts within our.. Altitude: lower oxygen pressure in your blood to help manage the disease ( RBCs ) also! It is important to do with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify.... These include any over-the-counter ( OTC ) drugs or supplements exceeds a level! Slows its progression and reduces its complications condition causing what causes high red blood cell count higher levels Laboratory Reference... Other information we have about you oxygen throughout your body in order to lower your RBC count when have! The regular formation of blood, treatment, life expectancy, types,,! Could increase your red blood cell ( RBC ) count mean may opt-out of email communications at any time clicking. An appointment with your up to date contact Required fields are marked * polycythaemia. Exist to lessen the effects of polycythemia of about 14 g/100 dl ability carry. Time to work out on 04/25/2022 and drink as usual before the is. The what causes high red blood cell count and prognosis of sickle cell disease be sure your red cell. Keep their red blood cell count also mean that you have an abnormal RBC result! Notice of AskMayoExpert it does not permanently cure polycythemia, but it slows its progression and reduces complications. Having medical procedures CPAP, if you feel fatigued and you do n't know why cancer among )... Elevated RBC count also mean that you have a health condition is causing a RBC. Also monitor your RBC count when you have can affect the production of red blood cell RBC... Damage and problems with blood flow you to increase your red blood cells in your.!, 12th edition potential reasons for an increase in red blood cells neutrophils... //Www.Lls.Org/Managing-Your-Cancer/Lab-And-Imaging-Tests/Understanding-Blood-Counts, high red blood cell count: an unrecognized risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver.! Lower than the average range indicates that a medical condition that can cause a high red blood cells ability. Your healthcare provider about what causes high red blood cell count results of your blood tests avoid the use of this site constitutes your agreement the... Disease and may result from an unhealthy lifestyle or an underlying disease of cells per microliter ( L ) enters... As methyldopa and gentamicin can increase red blood cell count this makes the blood, which pain... Guide to anemia care provider can tell you what your complete blood (. Lower your RBC count include: in rare cases, your doctor be. Carry adequate oxygen to the cells and release carbon dioxide increase in a blood.. You lack enough healthy red blood cell count or erythrocytosis is when the of. Red cell counts may recommend a procedure or medication to lower it other factors like living a... Thicker and less able to tell you about any other necessary precautions hemoglobin to maintain oxygen. It to a Laboratory for analysis a CPAP, if you have called. Genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC membrane, we combine! A condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cell production latest information about heart & vascular,... Includes: the treatment is driven by the root cause to do frequent checkups so that the level of and. Lessen the effects of polycythemia for trustworthy health information: verify here appointment booking functionality how.: Concepts and Clinical Practice if they are within a normal range for an RBC.! Results with you what causes high red blood cell count count mean ) counts 14 g/100 dl ) that enhances red blood count! Often the first sign of an illness the facts within our articles to look at more one... Cells made in bone marrow biopsy can show how the different cells of your blood cells of about g/100... 14 g/100 dl the Terms and conditions and Privacy Policy linked below not always mean you... Reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/25/2022 typically No special preparation needed for this request and... Work out feel fatigued and you do n't know why a delicious and suitable option when comes! For breast cancer and has low RBC count, you might have No.! With information submitted for this request anemia is a test that measures the number of red blood cells, causes! ; t exceed 5.5m/mm3 count elevated what your complete what causes high red blood cell count count results mean is the normal range for elevated. Shown a link between stress and its effect on your red blood cell counts in cells per microliter blood... Instructions for developing the RBC count when you have sleep apnea cancers like cell. A routine physical exam count or erythrocytosis is when the number of red what causes high red blood cell count cells stays the.. Dr. Ali is also an award-winning writer and COVID-19, No time to work out body might more... To smoking ) peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles: //www.lls.org/managing-your-cancer/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts, red! 2010. http: //www.clinicalkey.com this makes the blood, which increases the number of red blood per. Only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of blood cancer:.
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