Erythremia Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

The symptoms of primary polycythemia occur gradually and vary from person to person. Some people are asymptomatic (showing no signs of the condition), while others are symptomatic (showing signs of the condition). If you experience any of the following symptoms, do not assume it is due to primary polycythemia. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.

Abnormal and heavy bleeding due to a cut or a nosebleed
Intense and frequent bone pain and/or muscle pain
Headaches, dizziness, or gastrointestinal symptoms
Difficulty or labored breathing
The color of the skin appears reddish
Fatigue (a state of weariness following a period of mental or physical activity)
Inability to concentrate
Gout
Deep vein thrombosis , heart attack , or stroke
Intense itching after a warm or hot bath, shower, or any activity that requires soaking your skin in warm or hot water

Diagnosis

Your physician will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. You may also be referred to a doctor who specializes in blood diseases and disorders (called a hematologist). The hematologist will perform a series (a set) of tests that may include:

Complete blood count (CBC) test—to measure your hematocrit level (the proportion of red blood cells in the blood)
Bone marrow biopsy (where a hollow-needle is inserted into your pelvic bone to remove a sample of your bone marrow cells)—to determine the rate at which the bone marrow is overproducing red blood cells. This test is also used to help determine what type of medication and other treatment options will slow the production of red blood cell in the bone marrow.