High red blood cell (RBC) count often raises questions about its impact on health. While RBCs play a vital role in carrying oxygen throughout the body, an abnormally high RBC level can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition. But is a high RBC count related to cancer? In this blog, we’ll explore the possible causes of elevated RBC levels, how they may be linked to certain types of cancer, and what you should know without unnecessary worry or confusion.
Overview
What are RBCs?
Red blood cells help in transferring oxygen throughout the body and help maintain energy, organ functioning, and overall health of the body required for proper functioning.
What High Red blood cell count mean?
A high RBC count in blood means that your body has a higher number of RBCs than normal, which could indicate an underlying health condition that requires immediate medical attention.
What Counts as a High RBC Level?
Your Provider checks for the Red Blood cells (RBC) count to diagnose several medical conditions. This is usually considered through a complete blood count test(CBC)
Typically RBC level in blood ranges from:-
Men: ~4.7 to 6.1 million cells per microliter (mcL)
Women: ~4.2 to 5.4 million cells/mcL
Children: ~4.1 to 5.5 million cells/mcL
RBC count above these ranges is normally considered elevated or high level, However, results may vary depending on the lab and method in that condition, you may need additional tests to determine the exact cause of high RBC level, your doctor may also see other conditions that cause elevated RBC level like Heart failure or sleep apnea(Restricts oxygen supply)
What are the tests to check for a High RBC count?
Some of the tests are:-
RBC test- Checks for RBC levels in blood
Haemoglobin test- Checks for total Haemoglobin in the blood
Hematocrit test- Checks for the RBC percentage in your blood
CBC test- Checks for size and measures RBC, WBC, platelets, and other constituents.
What are the Symptoms associated with a High Red Blood cell(RBC) count?
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Migraines or Headaches
- Impaired or blurry vision
- Tingling or numbness
- Sleep disturbances
- Joint discomfort
- Skin irritation
- Nosebleeds
Note- Sometimes people with high RBC levels don’t show any symptoms at all
What are the common causes of high RBC levels?
Causes may depend upon the Lifestyle and condition of the individuals. However, some of the common symptoms include:-
Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking
- Dehydration(fewer RBCs make the RBC count high)
- Living at high altitude
- Anabolic steroids, such as synthetic testosterone, are used to boost stamina.
Medical Conditions- Some of the conditions can also increase the red blood cells this including
- Lung diseases like Emphysema, COPD, and Pulmonary fibrosis(scarring of the lung tissue)
- Congenital heart disease( from birth)
- Carbon Monoxide exposure(related to smoking)
- Kidney disorders, like high erythropoietin production.
Can a high RBC count be related to cancer?
High RBC count does not mean to be cancer; however, it is associated with certain types of cancer, including:-
- Polycythemia vera– Polycythemia vera is a rare blood cancer where the bone marrow makes too many RBC, leading to clots, stroke, or heart attack.
- Renal cell Carcinoma- Renal cell Carcinoma is a Common kidney cancer associated with excess erythropoietin(EPO) secretion, leading to high RBC count.
- Hepatocellular carcinoma- A Common liver Cancer among adults may be associated with high EPO secretion.
Management and Treatment
What are the Treatment options to control a High RBC count?
Based on the underlying cause, some of the treatment options available are
Phlebotomy- A small amount of blood is removed regularly to reduce the blood volume and thickness to control the RBC level. Commonly done for Polycythemia vera or in a chronic Hypoxia condition.
Medications- Cytoreductive drugs such as Hydroxyurea help slow the RBC production and can be taken in rare blood cancers such as Polycythemia vera or other bone marrow conditions. (Consult with your doctor regarding medications before consumption)
How to Manage High RBC Level?
Here are some of the lifestyle tips that can help control the RBC level in your blood.
Be Hydrated- Keep blood volume and thickness balanced
Quit Smoking- smoking reduces oxygen concentration, stimulates excess RBC
Beverages and drinks- Avoid coffee, Soda, and other diuretics that interfere with RBC levels
Exercise daily- Improves Blood flow and circulation
Avoid Iron supplements- Unless prescribed, these supplements can worsen RBC production.
When to see a Doctor?
If the RBC level stays high for a week.
If you are experiencing a headache, Dizziness, and chest pain.
If you have a family history of Blood Cancers, like Polycythemia vera or blood disorders.
A final note:
A high red blood cell (RBC) count isn’t always a cause for concern,it can be influenced by simple factors like dehydration, living at high altitudes, or certain lifestyle habits. However, in some cases, it may point to underlying health issues, including serious conditions such as kidney cancer or polycythemia vera, a type of blood cancer. That’s why it’s important not to jump to conclusions. If your RBC levels are elevated, always consult a qualified healthcare expert. Visiting the best cancer clinic near you can ensure you get a thorough evaluation, an accurate cancer diagnosis, and timely treatment if needed.
FAQs
Q1.Can Cancer cause High RBC?
Not all cancers cause High RBC levels, However, some rare cancers, like Polycythemia vera, Renal cell carcinoma, can cause RBC levels to spike. Consult with your doctor accordingly for further diagnosis.
Q2.What is the reason for a high RBC level?
High RBC levels can often be related to health and life conditions like Smoking, dehydration. Adopt a healthy lifestyle to avoid such conditions.
Q3.Can stress cause a high RBC count?
Yes Some research and studies shows that High RBC level is related to the stress, Stress can lead to in cresein Neutrophils( White blood cells) and Platelets.
Q4.Should I be worried if my RBC count is slightly high?
Not always. A mildly elevated RBC count could result from temporary or non-serious causes like dehydration or recent exercise. However, consistent or significantly high levels should be evaluated by a specialist to rule out the exact issue.
Q5.What type of doctor should I see for a high RBC count?
You need to go to a hematologist (a blood doctor) or a cancer center. They will determine whether the elevated RBC based upon which they diagnose the condition accordingly.
