Polycythemia – Patient Education
What It Is
Polycythemia is a condition where your body makes too many red blood cells. These extra cells make your blood thicker, which can cause problems like blood clots.
Causes and Risk Factors
Polycythemia can happen because:
Your body makes too many red blood cells (called primary or polycythemia vera)
Your body makes more red blood cells because it’s not getting enough oxygen (called secondary polycythemia), like if you smoke or live at high altitudes
Some health problems like lung disease or tumors
Risk factors include:
Smoking
Living in high places with less oxygen
Certain rare diseases
Family history of blood problems
Signs and Symptoms
Early warning signs:
Headaches
Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
Itchy skin, especially after a hot shower
Red or flushed skin, especially face
Other symptoms:
Feeling tired or weak
Trouble breathing or chest pain
Blurred vision or ringing in ears
Easy bruising or bleeding
Pain, redness, or swelling in arms or legs (blood clots)
Complications if Untreated or Not Following Care Plan
If untreated, polycythemia can cause:
Blood clots, which can lead to stroke or heart attack
Heart problems due to thick blood
Bleeding problems
Enlargement of the spleen
Poor blood flow causing pain or organ damage
Treatment and Self-Care Measures
Phlebotomy: This is a treatment where blood is taken out regularly to lower red blood cell levels.
Medications: Some medicines help lower blood cells or reduce clotting risk.
Lifestyle: Stop smoking and avoid situations that lower oxygen levels.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep blood less thick.
Avoid long periods of sitting or standing to reduce clot risk.
Common Types of Medications
Hydroxyurea
Purpose: Reduce production of red blood cells.
Side effects: Low blood counts, nausea, mouth sores.
Aspirin (low dose)
Purpose: Lower risk of blood clots.
Side effects: Bleeding, stomach upset.
Other medicines may be prescribed to manage symptoms or complications.
Dietary Needs
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Avoid excess iron supplements unless your doctor says to take them.
Limit alcohol, as it can affect blood cells.
Lifestyle Changes
Quit smoking to improve oxygen in your blood.
Exercise regularly, but avoid activities that may increase clot risk.
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Avoid tight clothing that reduces blood flow.
Avoid long periods without moving (e.g., during travel).
Safety Considerations
Take medications exactly as prescribed.
Watch for signs of bleeding or clotting.
Avoid injuries that cause bleeding.
Have regular blood tests to monitor red blood cell levels.
Inform all your healthcare providers about your condition.
Prevention and Maintenance Tips
Keep regular appointments for blood checks.
Follow your treatment plan closely.
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Manage other health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
When to Call for Help
Call your Home Health Agency or Doctor if:
You develop sudden weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
You have chest pain or severe shortness of breath
You notice unusual bleeding or bruising
Your skin turns very red or you have severe itching
You have new headaches or vision changes
Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room if:
You have severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
You suddenly lose movement or speech
You pass out or feel confused
You have severe bleeding that won’t stop
© 2025 Judith Regan / K.N.O.W. – Knowledge for Nurturing Optimal Well-Being. All rights reserved. | Educational use only | Not a substitute for medical advice | In emergencies call 911
Patient Homework/Assessment
Instructions: Choose “True” or “False” for each statement. Correct any false statements.
True or False – Polycythemia means your body has too many red blood cells.
True or False – Smoking can cause polycythemia.
True or False – Polycythemia makes your blood thinner.
True or False – Headaches and dizziness can be symptoms of polycythemia.
True or False – You should stop drinking water if you have polycythemia.
True or False – Phlebotomy helps lower red blood cell levels.
True or False – Aspirin can help reduce the risk of blood clots in polycythemia.
True or False – You should avoid smoking to help manage polycythemia.
True or False – Polycythemia can cause blood clots that lead to stroke or heart attack.
True or False – You can safely skip your medications if you feel fine.
True or False – Itchy skin, especially after hot showers, can be a symptom.
True or False – You should avoid long periods of sitting or standing to prevent clots.
True or False – Excess iron in your diet is always good for polycythemia.
True or False – Red or flushed skin can be a sign of polycythemia.
True or False – You should have regular blood tests to monitor your condition.
True or False – Exercise is harmful for people with polycythemia.
True or False – Low-dose aspirin may cause bleeding side effects.
True or False – You should report sudden chest pain or shortness of breath immediately.
True or False – Tight clothing helps improve blood flow.
True or False – Polycythemia can cause enlargement of the spleen.
Individualized Patient Questions
Do you smoke or have you recently quit smoking?
Have you had any headaches or dizziness lately?
Are you experiencing itching or flushing of your skin?
How often are you having blood drawn (phlebotomy)?
Are you taking any medications for polycythemia?
Do you drink enough water every day?
Have you noticed any unusual bleeding or bruising?
Do you have any chest pain or trouble breathing?
Have you had any blood clots or swelling in your arms or legs?
Do you avoid long periods of sitting or standing?