HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes High Hemoglobin Level?

default
Posted on Mon, 14 Apr 2014
Question: my hemoglobin is 19.1 on a test before donating blood my age is 73 yrs.
doctor
Answered by Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: Raised hemoglobin Detailed Answer: Dear XXXX your hemoglobin is definitely on the higher side. Though not alarming at this time, has many causes. people living in high altitudes do have raised hemoglobin levels. Those people having some kind of problems in the kidneys do also have raised hemoglobin levels. Bone marrow overactivity is another cause. You need to have a complete check up from a hematologist to rule out the cause. At the moment I advise you to keep yourself well hydrated as the raised viscosity of the blood may give you some symptoms. please follow with your primary physician for necessary investigations. Truly, Dr. J. Ticku
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku (19 hours later)
Thnks doc for your reply,does raised viscosity of the blood raise blood pressure? My blood pressure stays pretty normal around 115,125/78,84. and my kidneys seem ok ,no problem urinating .Does pre diabetic can cause this situation?
doctor
Answered by Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku (34 hours later)
Brief Answer: yes, partly Detailed Answer: Dear, Thanks for reverting. Yes, raised viscosity can partly contribute to increase in blood pressure. The tingling sensation could be a diabetic problem also. Pre- diabetes does not cause raise in hemoglobin. Your present concern is raised hemoglobin which increases the viscosity of the blood. This condition is called Polycythemia Rubra for which you should consult your physician who may advise you removal of part of your blood and would perform certain investigations to rule out the cause and give you treatment accordingly. truly, Dr. J. Ticku
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku (11 hours later)
Thanks again doc,Does donating Blood on a regular bases does that help to keep your hemo down.? I have my semi-annual doctors appointment coming up soon and I will talk to to the doctor about it. In the mean time i'd like your opinion on this topic. Thanks..............
doctor
Answered by Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku (18 hours later)
Brief Answer: Raised hemoglobin Detailed Answer: Dear XXXX Periodic donation/ withdrawal of blood will prevent you from the side effects of raised hemoglobin. it will definitely reduce your hemoglobin but it needs to be established will any drug be helpful to control the over activity of bone marrow. Also it is needed to be determined if there is any offending cause. if yes we have to take care of that and you may not need to withdraw the blood. Truly, Dr. j. Ticku
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. dr. Jawahar Ticku

Oncologist

Practicing since :1979

Answered : 489 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes High Hemoglobin Level?

Brief Answer: Raised hemoglobin Detailed Answer: Dear XXXX your hemoglobin is definitely on the higher side. Though not alarming at this time, has many causes. people living in high altitudes do have raised hemoglobin levels. Those people having some kind of problems in the kidneys do also have raised hemoglobin levels. Bone marrow overactivity is another cause. You need to have a complete check up from a hematologist to rule out the cause. At the moment I advise you to keep yourself well hydrated as the raised viscosity of the blood may give you some symptoms. please follow with your primary physician for necessary investigations. Truly, Dr. J. Ticku