Polycythemia is a disorder of the blood that involves an increase over the normal range of blood cells in the body. The disease may take on any of three forms: polycythemia vera, overproduction of red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets. Also, this condition may cause a decrease in blood plasma or complicating factors that may lead to gout, blood clots, heart attack and stroke. Most commonly, polycythemia affects adults over 50 years of age, and is more commonly found in men than women. The condition affects blood forming organs in the body, including the spleen, bone marrow (where red blood cells form), the lymph glands and lymph pathways. Understanding identify polycythemia may help to prompt adequate treatment and to reduce chances of complications.
Instructions
1. Pay attention to any sudden changes in the body. This condition may present with signs of fatigue or drowsiness. At first, many individuals compare such symptoms to busy life schedules, but symptoms of polycythemia are not relieved through adequate rest. One of the most common symptoms of polycythemia is a difficult in breathing when lying down, sometimes accompanied by chest pain. Many often confuse these symptoms with indigestion or even heart attack.
2. Experiencing dizziness or a lack of coordination is also a common symptom of polycythemia. This may or may not be accompanied by headaches of varying severity. This symptom may be the result in a drop in blood pressure or lack of adequate oxygenation. In some cases, smoking may increase symptoms.
3. Watch for signs of unexplained itching and flushed or reddened skin. In many individuals, this may appear as a smooth rash. These often occur after the individual has taken a warm bath or shower.
4. Be alert to any tingling or weakness in the hands and arms, or feet and legs. This sensation may also be accompanied by a burning sensation as well. Any sudden numbness to extremities or the face should be addressed immediately.
5. Pay attention to any sensation of bloating or "heaviness" in the upper left side of the abdomen. This may be caused by an enlarged spleen. The area may be tender to the touch, such as when a person had become bruised.
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