Polycythemia vera (PV) is a kind of blood cancer in which the bone marrow produces a large number of red blood cells, causing the blood to thicken. This change in blood viscosity slows down its flow and can lead to complications like blood clots. PV is a rare condition caused by a genetic mutation. The condition develops slowly, and a patient may have it for years before they show serious symptoms and receive a diagnosis.

Symptoms of PV

The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms. Most of these symptoms are easily overlooked or mistaken as a sign of another condition. Knowing the key signs and symptoms is important for a timely diagnosis and treatment.

Fatigue and weakness

It is a hallmark symptom of PV and other cancer types. People with the condition often describe fatigue as a constant feeling of tiredness even after getting enough sleep. The symptom can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life.

Headaches

Another common symptom observed in PV patients is frequent headaches. They may occur in different areas in the head or vary in intensity.

Dizziness

As the blood thickens, its flow slows down, which can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in patients. The symptoms can also increase the risk of sudden falls, making them dangerous signs.

Shortness of breath

As the blood thickens, it has difficulty flowing throughout the body. This problem can cause a person to experience shortness of breath, which often worsens when lying down. This is because the heart works harder in this position to keep the blood flowing.

The condition can also cause symptoms like night sweats, itching, numbness, and gout. It is important to consult a healthcare expert when one experiences any of the warning signs.

Causes of PV

PV is a condition that occurs due to a genetic mutation that causes the bone marrow to produce excessive red blood cells. But the condition is not genetically inherited from parents. It begins when a single gene within a single stem cell in the bone marrow malfunctions. In most cases, the gene impacted by the mutation is the JAK2 gene. The mutated gene guides the stem cells to reproduce continuously. As reproduction begins, the cells that the bone marrow has just produced also reproduce. It is important to remember that the JAK2 gene mutation is acquired most of the time, which is why the condition is typically not one that patients inherit from their parents.

PV can affect a person at any age. But the condition is more common in adults between 50 and 75 years of age, with a higher prevalence in men. It is important to know that the condition can also affect women at a younger age compared to men.