The excessive production of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets by the bone marrow, due to a JAK2 gene mutation, is known as polycythemia vera (PV). This rare blood condition makes the blood thicker (more viscous). The condition increases the risk of complications like strokes, blood clots, and heart attacks. In addition, the illness affects men more frequently than women, typically impacting elderly persons. Read on to know its signs, causes, and treatment.

Signs of polycythemia vera
Polycythemia vera (PV) can have various signs and symptoms; some may even have no symptoms. However, some typical signs and indicators of the condition include:

Headaches
Unsteadiness or faintness
Weakness or weariness
Trouble breathing
Itchy skin
Sweating a lot, especially at night
Issues with vision or visual disruptions
Spleen or liver enlargement
Elevated blood pressure
Easily bruising or bleeding
Joint pain or symptoms resembling gout

Causes of polycythemia vera
The JAK2 gene mutation that causes the condition has an unknown etiology. However, it is thought to be brought on by a confluence of environmental and genetic variables. The following are some causes of polycythemia vera.

Age
People over 60 are more likely to be diagnosed with PV.
Gender
It is more likely to affect men than women.
Family history
PV has a hereditary propensity because it can run in families.
Radiation exposure
PV risk is increased by exposure to large doses of radiation.
Chemical exposure
Exposure to some chemical compounds, such as benzene, can raise the risk of PV.

Diagnosis for polycythemia vera
Physical examinations, blood testing, and imaging studies are frequently used to diagnose polycythemia vera (PV). If you encounter any PV symptoms, you must visit a doctor immediately because immediate treatment and diagnosis can help avoid catastrophic problems. A doctor may use the following procedures to identify the condition:

Physical examination
The doctor will perform a physical examination and inquire about the patient’s symptoms and overall health history. They might look for swollen lymph nodes, the liver, or the spleen.
Blood tests
Typically, a blood test is an initial step in diagnosing PV. The doctor will examine the blood for abnormally high platelets and white and red blood cells. The JAK2 mutation in the gene, found in most PV sufferers, may also be examined.
Bone marrow biopsy
A biopsy of the bone marrow may be carried out if blood tests reveal elevated blood cell counts and the JAK2 mutation in the gene is present. A small sample of the bone marrow from the joint at the hip must be removed using a needle, and it must then be examined under a microscope to look for cell abnormalities.
Imaging studies
Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or a computed tomography (CT) scan, may be used to look for an enlarged liver or spleen, which could indicate PV.

Additional testing may be required after PV has been identified to assess the severity of the condition and track its development.

Treatment for polycythemia vera
Although prescription treatment can help manage symptoms and lower the risk of complications, polycythemia vera (PV) cannot be cured. Red blood cell and other blood cell reduction is the main goal of PV treatment because doing so can help to thin the blood and reduce viscosity. The following are some treatment options:

Phlebotomy
The most frequent kind of treatment for PV is phlebotomy. Reducing the number of red and other blood cells in circulation entails taking a specific amount of blood out of the individual’s body at regular intervals. The frequency of phlebotomy depends on the patient’s particular requirements and is typically performed at the doctor’s office.
Prescription treatments
If phlebotomy is ineffective or impractical, prescription treatments may lower the number of blood cells in circulation. These prescription treatments reduce the rate at which blood cells are made in the bone marrow.
Additional treatments
In some circumstances, further therapies, including radiation treatment or surgery for removing an enlarged spleen, may be advised.

To sum up
The best course of action for each patient will be determined by their unique needs, the severity of their symptoms, and the likelihood of consequences. Patients with polycythemia vera should visit their doctor frequently to monitor their condition and modify their treatment plan as necessary.