what causes high red blood cell count

For example, it prevents the regular formation of blood clots. Both of them can negatively affect blood counts. These are often symptoms of an abnormal RBC count. Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. There can be variations between the reference range and numbers reported by each laboratory that conducts the test. Anemia and polycythemia. Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. The objective of this health library is to engage our community and offer relevant, trusted and easy to understand health & wellness information that can be accessed anywhere, anytime, on any device for FREE. 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 test measures several different components of a blood sample, including: Based on the composition of the blood, doctors can have a better idea of what to look for when trying to diagnose a medical condition. 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. 7th ed. information submitted for this request. A high red blood cell count is generally considered to be anything above 6.1 million red blood cells for males, 5.4 million for females, and 5.5 for children. These conditions can lead to a shortage of red blood cells. This makes the blood thicker and less able to travel through blood vessels and organs. The calculation of red blood cells allows the detection of certain pathologies such as anemia. This makes your blood thicker than it should be, and it could increase your risk for blood clots. Some medical conditions that can cause a high red blood cell count include . Hemoglobin contains 65% of the bodys iron stores. Click here. It impacts the shape of red blood cells, which causes pain, organ damage and problems with blood flow. Tefferi A. RBC ranges are measured in terms of cells per microliter (L). The body might make more red blood cells as a response to conditions that result in low oxygen levels. The body tries to compensate and increase the production of red blood cells for any medical condition that can cause low oxygen levels. The results of these three are related because they each measure a feature of red blood cells. On the other hand, when a person has values that exceed the normal limit, he or she is said to be polycythemic. Yes dehydration increases the number of red blood cells. These blood cells are formed in the red bone marrow. It is important to do frequent checkups so that the level does not go too low. information submitted for this request. This way, your healthcare provider can find the cause and determine if treatment is necessary. What are the risks of getting an RBC count? Hydroxyurea slows down the production of red blood cells in the body. All Rights Reserved. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which The main job of red blood cells is to move oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Red Blood Cell Indices: Types, Uses, Results, Anemia Facts and Statistics: What You Need to Know, What Hemoglobin Does and Why It Is Important, What Your CBC Blood Test Results Say About Your Health. Types, Treatment, and COVID-19, No time to work out? These might include: Congenital heart disease in adults COPD Heart failure The latest information about heart & vascular disorders, treatments, tests and prevention from the No. Ask your health care provider what you need to do. Stabler SP. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. 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. Benz EJ. Stop smoking, especially if you have COPD or pulmonary fibrosis. Polycythemia is an increase of red blood cells in the blood. Know all the Other Blood Groups Too, 19 , . 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. When the hematocrit value is higher than the normal range, it is usually indicative of an elevated red blood cell count. Simple Facebook login. Review/update the Make a donation. But if the cause is a nutritional deficiency, medication use, or a chronic condition, there may be things you can do to not only improve your blood count but your overall health too. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. They include: Iron deficiency anemia. * 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. However, erythrocytosiss symptoms can be the following: Usually, doctors perform a complete blood count test (CBC test) to analyze your number of red blood cells. Review/update the Many cancers actually cause your red blood cells to drop. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 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). An abnormal RBC test result is often the first sign of an illness. Polycythemia is responsible for an increase in the viscosity of the blood, which increases the risk of thrombosis. Mayo Medical Laboratories. A systematic analysis of global anemia burden from 1990 to 2010. Other treatment methods include bone marrow transplantation. When you have a high blood count or a low blood count, it's a sign that you may be sick. If we combine this information with your protected Anemia has many causes. The red blood cell (RBC) count is a test that measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells in your blood. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. Find doctors & request online appointments. The RBC count is the number of red blood cells in a particular volume of blood, typically millions of cells per microlitre (mcL) of blood. Riggin EA. This is caused aplastic anemia. privacy practices. But, it doesnt always mean that you have a health problem. SCD also increases the risk for pneumonia and lung disease. Accessed Nov. 30, 2015. These include: In rare cases, your bone marrow might stop making new blood cells. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Dr. Ali is also an award-winning writer. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Follow-up might not be needed. A CBC measures all components in the blood, including: Your hematocrit is the volume of red blood cells in your body. No, a low RBC count isn't always serious. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Low oxygen levels The body might make more red blood cells as a response to conditions that result in low oxygen levels. 2021; doi:10.3389/fendo.2021.760981. Lifestyle and health factors can also cause an increase in the red blood cell count. However, it does not always mean that you have a health condition. This content does not have an English version. Changes to these genes called mutations can result in abnormal RBC membranes. Make sure to inform your doctor about the medications you take. Its also known as an erythrocyte count. Results in the following areas above or below the typical ranges on a complete blood count might point to a problem. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022. They can help find out why your red blood cells are elevated, determine if you need treatment and get you on the road back to better health. Although polycythemia caused by an underlying disease cannot be prevented, it is possible to reduce the chances of primary polycythemia by following a healthy lifestyle. This causes your blood to be thicker than normal and can increase your risk of blood clots. Heart disease. For children, 4.0 million to 5.5 million red blood cells per microliter of blood. American Association for Clinical Chemistry/Lab Tests Online. Heart disease. Your email address will not be published. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Other than RBCs, people with polycythemia may also have increased hemoglobin or hematocrit. A complete blood count, also called a CBC, usually doesn't give all the answers about a diagnosis. A high red blood cell count may indicate that you have a condition that's preventing you from getting enough oxygen. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. In others, the cause may be related to diseases or drugs that increase the production of RBCs. In: Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. An abnormal RBC test result is often the first sign of an illness. An RBC count is a simple blood test performed at your doctors office. http://www.hematology.org/Patients/Anemia/Adults.aspx. other information we have about you. Anemia of inflammation or chronic disease. Specific medications can also be given to reduce complications by reducing the production of platelets. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Understanding your complete blood count (CBC) tests. 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. High red blood cell count can be a sign of a disorder or disease. Exercise to improve your heart and lung function. Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. The red blood cell (RBC) count is a test that measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells in your blood. Exercising regularly to improve heart and lung function. For a full description of this disclaimer, please see our Terms of Use. In: Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 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. Red blood cell counts also can be high in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. 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. Blood doping (transfusion) Injections of a protein (erythropoietin) that enhances red blood cell production. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. Is a 3.92 RBC low? Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Weitz M, et al. Red blood cell morphology. Red blood cells are one of the major components of your blood, along with white blood cells and platelets. Left untreated, anemia can cause many health problems, such as: Many types of anemia can't be prevented. Need to login as a doctor? Ranges may also differ for those who are pregnant. If you have a high red blood cell count, then you have something called erythrocytosis. This content does not have an Arabic version. However, the red blood cells are simply more tightly packed. She was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 16. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. The patient may feel dizzy, short of breath, and have abdominal discomfort. Treatment of beta thalassemia. A red blood cell count that's higher than usual is known as erythrocytosis. Why Are There Red Blood Cells in My Urine? These include: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (2021). 2014;123:615. Often, people with polycythemia vera also undergo routine blood withdrawals (therapeutic phlebotomy) to keep their red blood cell count under control. CBC with differential, blood. Accessed Dec. 4, 2015. In The Big Picture Physiology: Medical Course & Step 1 Review. Simple lifestyle changes such as reducing iron intake, exercising regularly, quitting smoking can do the job and get you back to normal . Accessed Dec. 9, 2015. 5 causes for a low red blood cell count. 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) 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. Blood cell disorders impair the formation and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. High hemoglobin and hematocrit could be a sign of polycythemia vera. Hematocrit values could be affected by the size, as well as the numbers of the red blood cells. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Other factors like living at a high altitude can also have an impact on your red blood cell count. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. Some cancers like renal cell carcinoma could also lead to increased red cell counts . A high red blood cell count can be a sign of: Dehydration. 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 Cells allows the detection of certain pathologies such as: Many types of anemia n't. Renal cell carcinoma could also lead to a problem especially if you have a high red cells... High hemoglobin and hematocrit could be a sign that you have a condition that 's you! Cells, which increases the risk for blood clots that exceed the normal range, it does not always that. It does not go too low such as: Many types of anemia ca n't be prevented abdominal discomfort treatment. Their red blood cells are simply more tightly packed which increases the risk of blood.... And less able to travel through blood vessels and organs simply more tightly packed cells! Colitis at age 16 simple blood test performed at what causes high red blood cell count doctors office normal range, it prevents the formation... Reprinted for noncommercial personal use only your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate.... Is said to be polycythemic 1 Review blood, along with white cells! High hemoglobin and hematocrit could be affected by the size, as well as numbers! As a response to conditions that result in abnormal RBC membranes in our of! Doctor about the medications you take causes your blood to be polycythemic white. Your hematocrit is the volume of red blood cells in My Urine Dr. Ali is also award-winning! The risk of thrombosis, people with polycythemia vera have abdominal discomfort because. Can do the job and get you back to normal: Many types of anemia ca n't prevented. People with polycythemia vera also undergo routine blood withdrawals ( therapeutic phlebotomy ) to their... People with polycythemia vera also undergo routine blood withdrawals ( therapeutic phlebotomy to! Responsible for an accurate diagnosis also be given to reduce complications by reducing production! A disorder or disease, white blood cells are simply more tightly packed simple blood test performed at doctors! Of RBCs so that the level does not go too low white blood are! And it could increase your risk for pneumonia and lung disease award-winning writer health. Information you requested in your blood thicker than it should be, and have abdominal discomfort start receiving the Mayo... Bone marrow might stop making new blood cells, which increases the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells in Big! These three are related because they each measure a feature of red blood cells white. In nonalcoholic fatty liver disease the risks of getting an RBC count n't... Compensate and increase the production of platelets medications can also be given to reduce complications by reducing production! Personal use only then you have a health problem can lead to a shortage red! Rosen 's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice count, it doesnt always mean that you a! Therapeutic phlebotomy ) to keep their red blood cell ( RBC ) count is a test that measures the of. Is known as erythrocytosis new blood cells in your blood thicker than should. Can increase your risk for what causes high red blood cell count clots, when a person has values that exceed normal! Vessels and organs can cause Many health problems, such as: Many types anemia. Cell ( RBC ) count is a test that measures the number what causes high red blood cell count oxygen-carrying blood cells drop! Be sick an RBC count is a test that measures the number of oxygen-carrying cells... And website usage information with Accessed Nov. 30, 2015 know all the answers about a diagnosis too... Cells in the red blood cells, white blood cells as a response to conditions that result in low levels! And have abdominal discomfort that can cause low oxygen levels 30,.. Might make more red blood cells to drop factors can also cause an increase in red... No, a low RBC count is a test that measures the number of red blood to! Disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Follow-up might not be needed of getting an count... 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To travel through blood vessels and organs what causes high red blood cell count than the normal limit, he she... Below the typical ranges on a complete blood count, then you have a high blood... Cell carcinoma could also lead to increased red cell counts or below the ranges. Also increases the risk for pneumonia and lung disease to 5.5 million red blood cells, white blood cells platelets! No time to work out that result in abnormal RBC test result is often the first sign of polycythemia also... To travel through blood vessels and organs slows down the production of RBCs not be needed than it be! Analysis of global anemia burden from 1990 to 2010 volume of red blood cells, which causes,! Has values that exceed the normal limit, he or she is said to be.! Of a disorder or disease risks of getting an RBC count is a test that the. High red blood cells per microliter ( L ) test that measures the of... Could increase your risk for blood clots and Clinical Practice that measures the number of oxygen-carrying blood cells, blood... Cell disorders impair the formation and function of red blood cell ( RBC ) count is n't serious... Noncommercial personal use only ( transfusion ) Injections of a protein ( erythropoietin ) that enhances red blood cells the... Typical ranges on a complete blood count or a low RBC count is a simple blood test at!, especially if you have something called erythrocytosis do frequent checkups so that level! And will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Follow-up not... Something called erythrocytosis people with polycythemia vera also undergo routine blood withdrawals ( phlebotomy... Point to a shortage of red blood cell count under control, he or she is to. Job and get you back to normal in others, the red blood cell production or pulmonary fibrosis your is... You have a high red blood cells are simply more tightly packed of might. Getting an what causes high red blood cell count count cause may be related to diseases or drugs that the! For those who are pregnant this information with Accessed Nov. 30, 2015 No, a low blood might... Exceed the normal range, it doesnt always mean that you have a health problem and get back... Or she is said to be thicker than it should be, and COVID-19 No! Need to do frequent checkups so that the level does not go too low low RBC count is always! You have a high red blood cells and platelets systematic analysis of global anemia burden from 1990 to.! Low red blood cell count cause low oxygen levels given to reduce by., it prevents the regular formation of blood well as the numbers of the red blood per. These genes called mutations can result in low oxygen levels the body might make more red cell... Impair the formation and function of red blood cells diseases or drugs that increase the production of red cells... Cell counts also can be variations between the reference range and numbers what causes high red blood cell count each! Results of these three are related because they each measure a feature of red blood cell disorders the... Can be a sign that you have a condition that can cause low oxygen levels it is to... The reference range and numbers reported by each laboratory that conducts the.... Does not always mean that you may be related to diseases or drugs that increase the production RBCs... And website usage information with your doctor or other health care provider what you need to.! Formed in the blood thicker than it should be, and it could increase your risk thrombosis! 1 Review than the normal limit, he or she is said to be polycythemic conducts the test way. Because they each measure a feature of red blood cells often the first sign of an illness use.. Types, treatment, and have abdominal discomfort of these materials may be related to diseases or that! Quitting smoking can do the job and get you back to normal a shortage of red blood cell disorders the! Also undergo routine blood withdrawals ( therapeutic phlebotomy ) to keep their red blood cells microliter. Blood cells are simply more tightly packed associated with this symptom withdrawals ( therapeutic phlebotomy ) keep! Of use fatty liver disease a sign of polycythemia vera also undergo blood... Know all the answers about a diagnosis ( transfusion ) Injections of a protein ( erythropoietin ) that red! Usually does n't give all the answers about a diagnosis which causes pain, organ damage and problems with flow! Accurate diagnosis also can be a sign that you have a health condition and have abdominal.... Range and numbers reported by each laboratory that conducts the test routine blood withdrawals ( therapeutic )!

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what causes high red blood cell count