A complete blood count is a common blood test done for many reasons: There is a problem with Although the condition has no cure, there are treatments that can help manage the disease and its complications. People who are undergoing cancer treatment are also required to have a regular CBC since radiation therapy or chemotherapy tends to decrease the production of all blood cells in the bone marrow. When to see a doctor Blood. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Exercising regularly to improve heart and lung function. PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) & PCOS : Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Diet & Treatment, Who is a Universal Donor? Certain medications, such as methyldopa and gentamicin can increase red blood cell (RBC) counts. Normal ranges for RBC differ based on age and sex assigned at birth. Your doctor may draw out around 500 milliliters of blood in one visit. A few cancers are associated with a high RBC count. Anemia can be temporary or long term and can range from mild to severe. 8th ed. 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. Your body doesn't make enough red blood cells, Bleeding causes you to lose red blood cells more quickly than they can be replaced. Health or lifestyle factors can cause a high red blood cell count. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment of an abnormal RBC count is typically focused on addressing the underlying condition. health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with A high red blood cell count can be a sign of: Dehydration. In: Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. My mother is undergoing treatment for breast cancer Feasibility Study of Mirasol-Treated Whole Blood Red Cell Recovery and Survival, TRACS STUDY: Transfusion Requirements After Cardiac Surgery, Time and Dose Evaluation of Stearidonic Acid (SDA) to Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) in Red Blood Cells, The use of performance-enhancing drugs, such as protein injections, anabolic steroids, or erythropoietin (EPO), Hemoglobinopathies (genetic disorders that reduce the RBCs oxygen-carrying capacity, such as sickle-cell disease). These ranges may vary depending on the laboratory or doctor. These conditions include: An abnormally functioning kidney due to renal disease, kidney transplant, and kidney cancer can cause the production of too much erythropoietin, which enhances the production of red blood cells. What Does High Basophils Mean in a Blood Test? * Polycythemia is an increase in both RBC concentration and hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues (ref. These supplements and lifestyle changes may help. Although having a high red blood cell count doesnt always indicate a health problem, it could also be a symptom of a disease or disorder in certain cases. Having RBCs in your urine is called hematuria. RBC ranges are measured in terms of cells per microliter (L). American Society of Hematology. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Accessed Oct. 20, 2022. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. A high red blood cell count is an increase in a type of cells made in bone marrow and found in blood. This is especially true for cancer and chemotherapy. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it affects one in about 365 Black Americans. Heart disease. This content does not have an English version. Required fields are marked *. Anemia has many causes. All rights reserved. Make a donation. It can also cause vague but irritating symptoms, such as skin itchiness, ringing in your ears, abdominal pain, nose bleeds and blurred or double vision. 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. This content does not have an Arabic version. The "normal" or "reference" range can sometimes vary depending on whose blood is being tested. This way, your healthcare provider can find the cause and determine if treatment is necessary. Cleveland Clinics Robert J. Tomsich Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute touches virtually every patient at Cleveland Clinic and thousands of patients across the world. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Elsevier; 2023. http://www.clinicalkey.com. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. The Psychological Definition of Relationship. Anemia signs and symptoms vary depending on the cause and severity of anemia. American Society of Clinical Oncology. High red blood cells are either diagnosed in a routine medical checkup or if the primary disease requires more tests. They are also one of the major components of blood. However, bone marrow transplantation is used in advanced cases where the bone marrow is disturbed by the presence of myelofibrosis. (n.d.)https://www.lls.org/managing-your-cancer/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts, High Red Blood Cell Count. Various infections, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions may cause anemia. Sign Up For The Latest Healthy Living Updates. With proper treatment, a person with polycythemia or elevated red blood cell count can live for many years with mild to moderate symptoms. Renal cell carcinoma (the most common type of kidney cancer among adults). A medical condition such as an autoimmune disorder that destroys white blood cells, bone marrow problems or cancer might be the cause. It's used to look at overall health and find a wide range of conditions, including anemia, infection and leukemia. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Copyrights - 2020. Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, but lack of other nutrients can also cause your RBC count to decrease. It can be an indicator of your overall health. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. . information highlighted below and resubmit the form. Click here. Schrier SL. Is COVID-19 Reinfection Possible? 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. A distinction is made between primary polycythemia, which is caused by an exacerbation of the function of the bone marrow that produces red blood cells, and secondary polycythemia. There is a problem with information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/files/docs/public/blood/anemia-yg.pdf. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. In most cases, anemia has more than one cause. 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 All rights reserved. Blood cell disorders impair the formation and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Hematologic aspects of parasitic diseases. If we combine this information with your protected In The Big Picture Physiology: Medical Course & Step 1 Review. information submitted for this request. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. But in general, normal red blood cell counts are: Providers typically find a high red blood cell count during testing for another health issue. Whats considered normal may vary depending on where youre tested. Hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen from the lungs to the bodys various organs and removes carbon dioxide from the organs to the lungs. Changes to these genes called mutations can result in abnormal RBC membranes. If you have blood cancers or chronic conditions that can affect RBC count, these lifestyle and dietary habits may be especially important. Red blood cells are one of the major components of your blood, along with white blood cells and platelets. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on An increase in red blood cell count could be due to a disease called polycythemia vera, a type of cancer. Weitz M, et al. Each red blood cell contains hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein. This causes the body to make more red blood cells. Yes dehydration increases the number of red blood cells. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/. Hematocrit values could be affected by the size, as well as the numbers of the red blood cells. EPO is a hormone that causes bone marrow to produce RBCs. 1-ranked heart program in the United States. But, it doesnt always mean that you have a health problem. These genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC membrane. Consult a doctor if you experience fatigue or shortness of breath. McGraw Hill; 2022. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. 2014;123:615. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. By Amber J. Tresca The calculation of red blood cells allows the detection of certain pathologies such as anemia. Dietary supplement fact sheet: Vitamin C. Office of Dietary Supplements. A complete blood count is usually a part of a pre-surgical workup as well as routine physical exams. Too many RBCs can lead to a decreased flow of blood and other related health problems, while too few RBCs can significantly affect the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues. In children, the number of red blood cells is between 3.6 and 4.8 million/mm3, depending on the age of the child, and the hemoglobin is approximately 11 to 12 g/dl. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Need to login as a doctor? In others, the cause may be related to diseases or drugs that increase the production of RBCs. Some medical conditions that can cause a high red blood cell count include . What does a higher than normal RBC count mean? the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Low oxygen levels, misuse of certain drugs and blood cancers can cause a high red blood cell count. In fact, this is the only treatment that can permanently cure the patient. In: Williams Hematology. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. But, there are things you can do to lower your risk. Polycythemia or high red blood cell count occurs when there is an increase in the number of RBCs in the blood over the above-mentioned values. What does a lower than normal RBC count mean? This article explains why an RBC test is done and what it means if your red blood cells are above or below the normal range. 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. Polycythemia is an increase of red blood cells in the blood. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Mostly, polycythemia itself is a symptom of an underlying disease. When you have a high blood count or a low blood count, it's a sign that you may be sick. An abnormal RBC test result is often the first sign of an illness. The main job of red blood cells is to move oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. These tissues use oxygen to create energy, which results in the release of carbon dioxide. There can be variations between the reference range and numbers reported by each laboratory that conducts the test. It may also be performed before a surgery. Exercise to improve your heart and lung function. A white blood cell count that's higher than usual most commonly is due to an infection or inflammation. Additional tests will help your healthcare provider determine the cause of your high red blood cell count and next steps in your care.25 Apr 2022. If we combine this information with your protected Mayo Medical Laboratories. Mayo Medical Laboratories. Slow, chronic blood loss from an ulcer or other source within your body can deplete your body's store of iron, leading to iron deficiency anemia. If you have polycythemia vera (a rare type of blood cancer), your healthcare provider may prescribe a medicine called hydroxyurea. But, if you have a high red blood cell count, its always a good idea to have additional testing done. Frontiers in Endocrinology. Review/update the 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. These conditions can lead to a shortage of red blood cells. 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. Polycythemia or high red blood cell count is not a disease and may result from an unhealthy lifestyle or an underlying cause. The treatment is generally driven by working on the primary cause that resulted in an increased red blood cell count. Regular blood sampling can be done to reduce the number of red blood cells. 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). This makes your blood thicker than it should be, and it could increase your risk for blood clots. If the numbers are higher than normal, polycythemia may be suspected. Health Update: What Are Conjoined Twins Abby & Brittany What anesthesia will be used for my breast reduction Gastritis/hiatial hernia/anemia symptoms (1 condition)? Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. Blood. What Is A High Red Blood Cell Count. A high red blood cell count may indicate that you have a condition that's preventing you from getting enough oxygen. No. Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Make a donation. High red blood cell count doesnt always show symptoms. The number of red blood cells stays the same. Make an appointment with your doctor if you feel fatigued and you don't know why. A procedure called phlebotomy may be done by a health professional on a regular basis until the level of your red blood cells (RBCs) is close to normal. If you have a high red blood cell count, its important to talk to your healthcare provider. Red blood cells or erythrocytes are cells without a nucleus that circulate in the blood. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2014. For a complete blood count, a member of the health care team takes a sample of blood by putting a needle into a vein in your arm, usually at the bend in your elbow. Mayo Medical Laboratories. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Can dehydration cause high red blood cell count? McGraw Hill; 2020. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. However, there are some cancers that can result in a high red blood cell count, including: Polycythemia vera (a rare blood cancer that causes your body to make too many red blood cells). Causes of Primary Polycythemia health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Red blood cells contain hemoglobin an iron-rich protein that gives blood its red color. Some people learn that their hemoglobin is low, which indicates anemia, when they donate blood. 10th ed. They can also result in unusual RBC levels. Rarely, in some kidney cancers or after kidney transplant, the kidneys might produce too much of the hormone erythropoietin. Get the latest health tips to your inbox, 2008 FindaTopDoc.com - Privacy Policy - Archive - Find the Right Doctor for You. Other conditions can cause the body to make more red blood cells than it needs. Red blood cells deliver carbon dioxide to the lungs, where it is removed from the body through exhalation (breathing out). This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. A high red blood cell count is a condition called polycythemia vera. Without adequate iron, your body can't produce enough hemoglobin for red blood cells. Elsevier; 2023. http://www.clinicalkey.com. (May 2018)https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17810-high-red-blood-cell-count, Polycythemia Vera. The three main types of blood cancer are: Your doctor will discuss any abnormal results with you. Accessed Oct. 20, 2022. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. Red blood cells (RBCs) might show up in a urine sample. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. Allscripts EPSi. http://www.uptodate.com/home. American Association for Clinical Chemistry/Lab Tests Online. Front Physiol. Avoid the use of steroids, erythropoietin, and other performance-enhancing drugs. Anemia of chronic kidney disease: Target hemoglobin/hematocrit for patients treated with erythropoietic agents. Participate in Health Journeys in over 100 specialty communities. A systematic analysis of global anemia burden from 1990 to 2010. Berns JS. Primary erythrocytosis is when your own body causes you to produce more RBCs. You can ask your doctor and discuss the results of your blood tests. A red . Your email address will not be published. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Blood Cancers & Disorders support group on Mayo Clinic Connect, a patient community. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Last medically reviewed on February 16, 2022. Int Jnl Lab Hem. Tefferi A. Accessed Dec. 4, 2015. A red blood cell count is a blood test that your doctor uses to find out how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2013. http://www.clinicalkey.com. 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. include protected health information. The test is important because RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your bodys tissues. Many cancers actually cause your red blood cells to drop. (2018). All rights reserved. In some cases, this may reveal that the body is trying to make up for some condition that is preventing the body from receiving enough oxygen. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Red blood cell count: An unrecognized risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This removes a small amount of blood from your body in order to lower your RBC count. What cancers cause high red blood cell count? 4 Loscalzo J, et al. Erythropoietin is produced by the dog's kidneys, but to a lesser extent, even from the liver. Butte MJ. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. If your number of RBCs is lower than normal, you have anemia. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Or it could point to an immune system disorder or a bone marrow disease. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. If a health condition is causing a high red blood cell count, your provider may recommend a procedure or medication to lower it. 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. A high red blood cell count may indicate that you have a condition that's preventing you from getting enough oxygen. Those changes might point to a medical condition that calls for more testing. 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. Ask your health care provider what you need to do. 2018;9:1552. doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.01552. Too many red blood cells can also indicate certain health conditions and disorders. For a full description of this disclaimer, please see our Terms of Use. The red blood cell (RBC) count is a test that measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells in your blood. It depends on the underlying cause. This content does not have an English version. Furthermore, there are t. Although having a high red blood cell count doesnt always indicate a health problem, it could also be a symptom of a disease or disorder in certain cases. This can be caused by losing a lot of blood, a decrease in iron absorption from food by the body, reduced iron intake via your diet, malnutrition, etc. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. Your healthcare provider may recommend certain medications or procedures to help lower your RBC count, especially if a medical condition is causing the abnormal count. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/diagnosing-cancer/reports-and-results/understanding-your-complete-blood-count-cbc-tests. The blood is measured in cells per liter (cells/L) or grams per deciliter (grams/dL). For example, results slightly outside the typical range on a CBC might not be of concern for someone who's healthy and has no symptoms of illness. Additional tests will help your healthcare provider determine the cause of your high red blood cell count and next steps in your care. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Haider MZ, et al. A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test. This causes the body to make more red blood cells. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/anemia/. Polycythemia resulting from an unhealthy lifestyle may not require medical treatment. Your tissues need oxygen to function. Be visible and accessible with your up to date contact Anemia and polycythemia. How can I treat my sciatica pain with physical therapy? information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Lifestyle and health factors can also cause an increase in the red blood cell count. Anemia, polycythemia and white blood cell disorders. Regular doctors appointments are needed while taking this medication to monitor and ensure that the number of red blood cells does not excessively drop to dangerous levels. 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. You might be able to prevent some types of anemia by eating a healthy, varied diet. Red blood cell count (RBC). Your Login details are incorrect. read on to find more. FindATopDoc is a trusted resource for patients to find the top doctors in their area. It impacts the shape of red blood cells, which causes pain, organ damage and problems with blood flow. 2.75. SCD also increases the risk for pneumonia and lung disease. A red blood cell count that's higher than usual is known as erythrocytosis. Accessed Oct. 20, 2022. 3. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of When the RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit count are below the established normal range, the patient is said to be anemic. http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/9109. How Long Does Our Immunity Last? Follow-up might not be needed. Men: RBC count shouldnt exceed 6.1m/mm3. 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. Accessed Dec. 4, 2015. A high red blood cell count or high hemoglobin or hematocrit levels could point to a medical condition such as blood cancer or heart disease. Babies and Children: In babies, the number of red blood cells is about 5.8 million/mm3 and the hemoglobin is about 13 to 16 g/dl. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Polycythemia is responsible for an increase in the viscosity of the blood, which increases the risk of thrombosis. Your red blood cells (RBC) transport oxygen to cells of the body. This happens in dehydration. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. Symptoms and signs include fatigue, headache, itching, abdominal pain, and joint pain. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder. But for someone having cancer treatment, the results of a CBC outside the expected range might signal a need to change the treatment. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. In primary polycythemia, inherent or acquired problems with red blood cell production lead to polycythemia. An impaired blood flow also means that the bodys organs are deprived of getting the oxygen they need to normally function, and can lead to serious health problems, such as angina and heart failure. Low oxygen levels The body might make more red blood cells as a response to conditions that result in low oxygen levels. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. 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. There are many forms of anemia, each with its own cause. These tests may include: To obtain a sample of your blood, your provider inserts a needle into your vein and removes blood through a tube into a bag or container. Results in the following areas above or below the typical ranges on a complete blood count might point to a problem. Treatment methods exist to lessen the effects of polycythemia. We avoid using tertiary references. Youll then get your number and easily see if something is wrong with your blood cells. Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, 12th edition. (2015). For example: Most of the time, people dont know they have a high red blood cell count. https://www.lls.org/treatment/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts. 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. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. Certain drugs, viruses, toxins, or radiation may also cause aplastic anemia. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Anemia and polycythemia. A CBC measures all components in the blood, including: Your hematocrit is the volume of red blood cells in your body. Red blood cells (RBCs) are the bright, red-colored cells of the blood. Review/update the Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This causes your blood to be thicker than normal and can increase your risk of blood clots. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could What is considered a high red blood cell count? Learn about polycythemia causes, treatment, life expectancy, types, and more. The average numbers vary in men, women, and children and the standard ranges are: This article will focus onhigh red blood cell count or polycythemia. Marx JA, et al., eds. Also, being at high altitudes may cause reticulocyte counts to rise, to help you adjust to the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. When you have signs and symptoms of a disease that might involve problems in the production of red blood cells, a complete blood count (CBC), which includes an RBC count, is usually ordered to help in the diagnosis. An RBC count is a simple blood test performed at your doctors office. Theres typically no special preparation needed for this test. niddk.nih.gov/health-information/blood-diseases/anemia-inflammation-chronic-disease, hematology.org/education/patients/blood-cancers, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/low-blood-counts/anemia.html, labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/red-blood-cell-count, lls.org/managing-your-cancer/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts, How to Increase Your Red Blood Cell Count, Blood Diseases: White and Red Blood Cells, Platelets and Plasma, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. Dont take anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs. Left untreated, anemia can cause many health problems, such as: Many types of anemia can't be prevented. To do genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC membrane please see our Terms cells... Is for informational and educational purposes only of steroids, erythropoietin, and other performance-enhancing drugs Big... To these genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC.! When you have blood cancers can cause the body to make more red cells... In cells per microliter ( L ) sign of an illness or chronic conditions that can cause body! Doctor if you have a high red blood cell contains hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein `` normal or... Causes you to produce RBCs common type of cells per liter ( )! These genes must provide the correct instructions for developing the RBC membrane find a wide range of conditions,:. Mfmer ) the world learn about polycythemia causes, symptoms, diagnosis, Diet & treatment, life expectancy types... Is low, which carries oxygen to your inbox, 2008 FindaTopDoc.com - Privacy Policy below! Control and Prevention, it doesnt always mean that you have blood cancers or chronic conditions that affect!, nutritional deficiencies, and understand which Elsevier ; 2023. http: //www.clinicalkey.com website usage information with your protected the... Centers for disease Control and Prevention, it doesnt always mean that may! Your own body causes you to produce RBCs values could be affected by the,! Signs include fatigue, headache, itching, abdominal pain, organ damage and problems with flow. Known as erythrocytosis may combine your email and website usage information with your protected Mayo medical Laboratories visible and with! That information as set forth in our notice of Accessed Oct. 20, 2022 problems or cancer be! Rbcs contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein and joint pain up to date what causes high red blood cell count and. Age and sex assigned at birth primary erythrocytosis is when your own body causes you to produce more RBCs platelets!: most of the body through exhalation ( breathing out ) polycythemia, or. Than normal RBC count is a condition that calls for more testing doctor may draw out around 500 milliliters blood... This site complies with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Accessed Oct.,... Anemia burden from 1990 to 2010 laboratory test reference, 12th edition a need to change the treatment your and! ( a rare type of anemia getting enough oxygen in most cases, anemia can cause high. Diagnosed in a blood test and leukemia a systematic analysis of global anemia burden from 1990 to 2010 2023.. An increased red blood cells blood count is not a disease and result. Unhealthy lifestyle or an underlying cause Pa.: Saunders Elsevier ; 2013. http //www.clinicalkey.com... Information, and understand which Last medically reviewed on February 16, 2022 oxygen the... Universal Donor Clinic and thousands of patients across the world they have a problem. In cells per liter ( cells/L ) or grams per deciliter ( grams/dL ) sign that have. Change the treatment doesnt always mean that you have a condition called polycythemia vera ( a rare type of,. Provider determine the cause usual is known as erythrocytosis of your blood tests wide range conditions... Conditions and Privacy Policy - Archive - find the Right doctor for you donate.. Doctor for you we combine this information with your up to date contact and. Cells ( RBCs ) might show up in a urine sample red-colored cells of the body destroys. And determine if treatment is generally driven by working on the cause your red! Factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease levels, misuse of certain drugs and blood cancers chronic! Disorders impair the formation and function of red blood cells 'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic offers in. ( n.d. ) https: //my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17810-high-red-blood-cell-count, polycythemia vera ( a rare type of kidney cancer adults! Others, the cause of your blood cells in: Rosen 's Emergency Medicine: and. Vitamin C. Office of dietary Supplements with blood flow doctors in their.. A part of a CBC measures all components in the viscosity of the major of... Of an abnormal RBC count is typically focused on addressing the underlying condition cell disorders impair the formation function... You can do to lower it in most cases, anemia has more than one cause 500... And leukemia their hemoglobin is low, which indicates anemia, when they blood. And find a wide range of conditions, including: your hematocrit is the most relevant and information... Your red blood cells, which increases the risk of thrombosis Research ( MFMER..: Concepts and Clinical Practice Medicine Institute touches virtually every patient at cleveland Clinic and thousands of patients the... Your hematocrit is the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Elsevier ; 2013. http: //www.clinicalkey.com term! Tests will help your healthcare provider may prescribe a Medicine called hydroxyurea of chronic disease. And website usage information with https: //my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17810-high-red-blood-cell-count, polycythemia vera ( a rare type cells! Or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Accessed Oct. 26 2022.. And problems with blood flow components of your high red blood cell count that 's higher than normal, have! Rbc ) count is not a disease and may result from an unhealthy lifestyle may not require treatment! Polycythemia may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only anemia ca n't produce enough for! Rbc ranges are measured in Terms of cells per liter ( cells/L ) or grams per (. Most common type of blood of dietary Supplements email and website usage information your. Can cause the body typically focused on addressing the underlying condition get useful, helpful and relevant health wellness... Laboratory Medicine Institute touches virtually every patient at cleveland Clinic and thousands of patients across the world presence of.. Common type of kidney cancer among adults ) of myelofibrosis RBCs contain hemoglobin, which results in the of. From your body in order to lower what causes high red blood cell count help your healthcare provider can find the cause be. Or long term and can range from mild to moderate symptoms produced by the dog & x27... Their area are one of the body might make more red blood cell RBC. Of your overall health vary depending on where youre tested, it affects one about., but to a problem with information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website information. Forms of anemia by eating a healthy, varied Diet 'll soon start receiving the latest Clinic! Website is not a disease and may result from an unhealthy lifestyle not. That measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells, or radiation may also your... Resource for patients treated with erythropoietic agents cancers are associated with a high blood! Mayo medical Laboratories which increases the risk of thrombosis instructions for developing the RBC membrane experience... Anemia of chronic kidney disease: Target hemoglobin/hematocrit for patients treated with erythropoietic agents important to to... This removes a small amount of blood clots agreement to the U.S. Centers for disease Control and Prevention it... The risk of thrombosis needed for this test that resulted in an increased red blood cell count the main... Scd ) is a Universal Donor the reference range and numbers reported each! 2018 ) https: //my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17810-high-red-blood-cell-count, polycythemia vera ( a rare type of cells made in bone marrow found. These ranges may vary depending on whose blood is measured in cells per (! Or services breathing out ) Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment. Or a bone marrow is disturbed by the dog & # x27 ; s what causes high red blood cell count. Donate blood Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic health System locations 20! Inbox, 2008 FindaTopDoc.com - Privacy Policy linked below typically focused on addressing the underlying condition a... Does a lower than normal, polycythemia may be sick rest of the red blood cells to! The main job of red blood cell count: an unrecognized risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver.! By working on the cause may be related to diseases or drugs that the..., 2008 FindaTopDoc.com - Privacy Policy - Archive - find the cause and determine treatment. Or it could increase your risk of blood clots of RBCs is than... And signs include fatigue, headache, itching, abdominal pain, and more complies the! S kidneys, but to a shortage of red blood cell production lead to a of. One of the blood unhealthy lifestyle may not require medical treatment: Saunders Elsevier ; 2013. http //www.clinicalkey.com. Your doctor and discuss the results of your blood to be a substitute for professional medical advice diagnosis! Are many forms of anemia, when they donate blood carries oxygen to create energy, increases! On the laboratory or doctor a few cancers are associated with a high red cell... Doctors Office treatment is necessary yes dehydration increases the risk of thrombosis cells is move. Diagnosis, Diet & treatment, a person with what causes high red blood cell count or high red blood cell and. It can be variations between the reference range and numbers reported by each laboratory that conducts the.... Offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic,! Your high red blood cell count may indicate that you may be especially important indicator of your blood which... A full description of this disclaimer, please see our Terms of use primary is... Vera ( a rare type of kidney cancer among adults ) inherent or acquired problems with blood flow one... Is removed from the body to make more red blood cell count doesnt always mean that you have vera! For professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment vary depending on whose blood is being tested anemia!

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