What Causes High Red Blood Cell Count?

July 24, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Causes of High Red Blood Cell Count

A high red blood cell count, known as polycythemia, can be caused by various factors. It’s essential to determine the underlying cause because the treatment and management depend on addressing the specific reason for the elevated red blood cell count. Some common causes include:

  • Dehydration: When the body becomes dehydrated, the concentration of red blood cells in the blood increases, leading to a temporary rise in the red blood cell count.
  • Smoking: Smoking can lead to a higher red blood cell count due to the increased production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
  • Living at High Altitudes: In high-altitude environments with lower oxygen levels, the body compensates by producing more red blood cells to carry additional oxygen.
  • Polycythemia Vera: This is a rare bone marrow disorder where there is an overproduction of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The exact cause of polycythemia vera is not fully understood.
  • Lung Disease: Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can lead to low oxygen levels in the blood, triggering the body to produce more red blood cells.
  • Heart or Lung Tumors: Certain tumors in the heart or lungs can produce erythropoietin or similar substances, stimulating excessive red blood cell production.
  • Congenital Heart Disease: Some congenital heart defects can cause the body to produce more red blood cells in an attempt to compensate for reduced oxygen levels.
  • Kidney Conditions: Certain kidney diseases can lead to decreased oxygen sensing, resulting in increased production of erythropoietin and, subsequently, a higher red blood cell count.
  • Anabolic Steroid Use: Abuse of anabolic steroids can cause polycythemia due to the effect of these substances on the bone marrow.
  • Blood Doping: Athletes who engage in blood doping, a prohibited practice to increase performance, may artificially increase their red blood cell count by transfusing packed red blood cells.

It is crucial to identify the underlying cause of high red blood cell count through medical evaluation and appropriate tests. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve addressing the underlying condition, managing risk factors, and in some cases, therapeutic phlebotomy (removal of blood) to reduce excessive red blood cell levels. If you suspect you have a high red blood cell count or have symptoms associated with polycythemia, consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and proper management.

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