Hi. Routine CBC - Hemohlobin17.1. Hematocrit 51.5. Looked At Last

Posted on Mon, 20 May 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 20 May 2019 Answered on

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Question : Hi. Routine CBC - hemohlobin17.1. Hematocrit 51.5. Looked at last three years and has always been higher end of normal. Platlets -255 Rbc 5.42. Should I be concerned about polycythemia?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (58 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Probably polycythemia, follow the advice below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

I understand your concern.

Your symptoms seem to be related to polycythemia.

Polycythemia is characterised by high levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit.

I recommend to do some other examinations to confirm the polycythemia.

I suggest to do a blood smear and an erithropoetin level.

Meanwhile, I suggest to take a daily aspirin you prevent blood clots.

I also recommend avoiding smoking and do some moderate exercise daily.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D