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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes An Increase In The Hemoglobin And Hematocrit Levels?

My husband , age 73, has had an increase hemoglobin and hematocrit on every cbc for last 2 years. He just had a checkup with his cardiologist who recommended he see a hematologist. He had been told before that it could be from dehydration. Any suggestions as to what else thismay indicate. Appreciate any help. Thank you
Wed, 29 Aug 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Increased HB and hematocrit are called polycythemia. Yes, it may be because of dehydration however if this has been for last 2 years then it's unlikely because of dehydration.

Other then dehydration there are many causes.

These include any condition in which our blood oxygen is low ( like lung or heart disease or high altitude ) other which is more common is a primary blood disorder called polycythemia rubra vera.

To be very honest it's difficult to explain everything here as polycythemia is a big chapter.

But I find it necessary to mention that he should see a haematologist for further workup as dehydration would be unlikely if it's for 2 years.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes An Increase In The Hemoglobin And Hematocrit Levels?

Hi, Increased HB and hematocrit are called polycythemia. Yes, it may be because of dehydration however if this has been for last 2 years then it s unlikely because of dehydration. Other then dehydration there are many causes. These include any condition in which our blood oxygen is low ( like lung or heart disease or high altitude ) other which is more common is a primary blood disorder called polycythemia rubra vera. To be very honest it s difficult to explain everything here as polycythemia is a big chapter. But I find it necessary to mention that he should see a haematologist for further workup as dehydration would be unlikely if it s for 2 years. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.