What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Polycythemia Vera?

Major Signs and Symptoms

Polycythemia vera (PV) develops very slowly. You may not see signs and symptoms of PV for years after you have the condition. The signs and symptoms of PV are the result of the above normal thickness of your blood. This slows the flow of blood and the oxygen blood carries to all parts of your body. Without enough oxygen, the parts of your body can have problems functioning normally.

The most common signs and symptoms of PV include headache, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing when you're lying down, feelings of pressure or fullness on the left side of the abdomen due to enlargement of the spleen, double or blurred vision, blind spots, itching all over (especially after a warm bath), reddened face, burning sensation in your skin (especially your hands and feet), bleeding from your gums, more than normal bleeding from small cuts, and unexplained weight loss. In rare cases, you may experience pain in your bones if you have PV.

Possible Complications

If you have PV, the above normal thickness of your blood and slower blood flow can create serious health problems for you. The most serious complication of PV is that it may cause your blood to form clots. Blood clots can cause you to suffer a heart attack or stroke. They also can cause your liver and spleen to enlarge. Blood clots in the liver and spleen can cause sudden and intense pain. The high levels of red blood cells that cause PV can lead to stomach ulcers, gout, or kidney stones.