What Causes High Hemoglobin?
August 2, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
High hemoglobin, also known as polycythemia, is a condition in which the concentration of hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) in the blood is above the normal range. Several factors can contribute to elevated hemoglobin levels:
- Dehydration: When you are dehydrated, the volume of plasma (the liquid component of blood) decreases, leading to a relative increase in the concentration of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood.
- Smoking: Smoking can lead to an increase in the production of red blood cells, causing high hemoglobin levels.
- High altitude: Living at high altitudes with lower oxygen levels can stimulate the body to produce more red blood cells to compensate for the reduced oxygen availability, leading to increased hemoglobin levels.
- Polycythemia vera: This is a rare bone marrow disorder where the body produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, leading to high hemoglobin levels.
- Lung or heart disease: Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and some heart conditions can cause low oxygen levels in the blood, triggering the production of more red blood cells and elevated hemoglobin.
- Congenital heart defects: Some congenital heart defects may cause chronic low oxygen levels, leading to polycythemia.
- Erythrocytosis: Erythrocytosis refers to an increase in red blood cells without an apparent cause, and it can result in high hemoglobin levels.
- Kidney tumors or cysts: Certain kidney tumors or cysts can produce excess erythropoietin (a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production), leading to polycythemia.
- Androgen use: Anabolic steroids and testosterone supplements can stimulate the production of red blood cells and increase hemoglobin levels.
- Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics or certain hormone treatments, can contribute to increased red blood cell production and elevated hemoglobin levels.
High hemoglobin levels can thicken the blood, making it flow more slowly and increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart problems. If you have consistently high hemoglobin levels, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. They will conduct appropriate tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment to manage the condition effectively.