"Polycythemia" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
Polycythemia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. This condition is also known as erythrocytosis or leukocytosis and thrombocytosis.There are several types of polycythemia, including:1. Primary polycythemia: This is a rare disorder in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is often caused by a genetic mutation in a gene that controls the production of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.2. Secondary polycythemia: This type of polycythemia is caused by an underlying condition that increases red blood cell production, such as chronic hypoxia (low oxygen levels), kidney disease, or lung disease.3. Relative polycythemia: This is a condition in which the red blood cell count appears higher than normal due to a decrease in plasma volume.Symptoms of polycythemia may include: Thick, red blood Fatigue or weakness Headaches Dizziness or lightheadedness Confusion or disorientation Seizures Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Chest pain or pressureTreatment for polycythemia typically involves reducing the number of red blood cells or plasma volume. This may be done through: Venesection (bloodletting) Phlebotomy (regular blood draws) Agents that reduce red blood cell production or increase destruction of red blood cells Medications that increase blood flow or reduce blood viscosity.
Definition: A condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood.