What are the effects of elevated levels of hematocrit?
elevated levels of hematocrit, sometimes referred to as polytems or erythrocytosis, can lead to a number of symptoms and effects. Most often, a person who has increased hematocrit could experience heat, sweating, weight loss and fatigue or weakness. The effects of elevated hematocrit could also include bloody stools, bruises or itching of the skin, discomfort of joints or chest pain. If hematocrit persons remain increased above a certain level for a period of time, it may be exposed to a high risk of blood clots, heart disease or stroke.
Hematocrit levels basically measure the number or concentration of red blood cells in the bloodstream. Red blood cells contain protein hemoglobin, which lifts oxygen and transports it with blood into tissues in the body. When there are low oxygen levels in the bloodstream, the hormone erythropoetin stimulates the production of more red blood cells in the bone marrow.
The average percentage of red blood cells in a normal adult male is between 42 and 54 percent. In a womanIt is slightly lower, average between 38 and 46 percent. When the level of hematocrit rises above these percentage, and especially if it rises above 60 percent, the blood may intensify. Although the concentration of red blood cells and oxygen in the blood is higher, blood moves more slowly and tissues in the body could actually be less oxygen than normal. This can cause various noticeable effects on the body of the person.
Initially, one can notice significant weaknesses and fatigue. He can also experience headaches. Again, these effects are caused by a stronger, less effective blood flow. Heat intolerance can occur and one can react with excessive sweat, dizziness and fever. Itching, irritated skin spots can develop, especially after warm Bath or showers. It could also appear on the skin on blue or purple -color similar to bruises in random places.
When one increased the levels of hematocrit, he could also notice the blood in the stool. If the elevated hematocrit continues uncontrollable, it could also experiencea dark color of the fingers and fingers. Joints and muscles may occur as a result of blood strengthening and limited blood flow. The person could also experience chest pain, shortness of breath and weight loss.
Often, if the basic condition causing an increased number of red blood cells is corrected, the effects will be reduced and eventually disappears. If the elevated levels of hematocrit continue to increase uncontrolled, a person is exposed to an increased risk of blood clots, heart disease and stroke. These conditions may be life -threatening. It is therefore important that if a person has experienced an increased level of hematocrit, the cause of the elevated level is first fixed and repaired.