Polycythemia

Polycythemia is an acquired disorder in which the body produces too many red blood cells. It is caused by an increase in the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow, resulting in an overall increase in the body's red blood cell count. This increase in red blood cells makes the blood more viscous and can lead to an increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular events. Polycythemia can be treated by medications or by reducing the red blood cell count through the use of phlebotomy or by donating blood. The treatment of polycythemia depends on the underlying cause, and management is important to help reduce the risk of complications.