Get our free booklet, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: In Detail
This booklet provides information about myeloproliferative neoplasms (myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia) and includes our Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form to help you identify and keep track of your symptoms.
Download or order 50 free print copies today.
Polycythemia vera (PV) develops slowly, and it may not cause symptoms for many years. The condition is often diagnosed during a routine blood test before severe symptoms occur. Reduced blood flow due to high numbers of red blood cells and the enlargement of the spleen are what cause a patient’s symptoms.
Signs and symptoms of PV
- Fatigue
- Pruritus (itchy skin), especially after warm baths or showers
- Redness, pain and burning feeling on the skin of the face, hands, or feet (erythromelalgia)
- Headaches, dizziness and weakness
- Difficulties concentrating
- Night sweats
- Insomnia
- Blurred vision, double vision, or seeing dark or blind spots that come and go
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Shortness of breath
- Angina (chest pain)
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Excessive bleeding or bruising
- Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling or burning sensation in the feet)
- Swelling and pain in the stomach
- Feeling full after eating small amounts of food
- Weight loss for no known reason
- Bone pain, most often the legs
When PV causes symptoms, they can be troublesome. Reducing symptoms is a key goal of treatment. Therefore, it is important to take an active role in monitoring your PV symptoms.
Careful tracking of your symptoms can help you and your doctor better understand how to manage and modify your care over time.
Get free, one-on-one support
Call, email, or chat with a member of our highly trained support team.
Blood Cancer United resources
Find free, specialized guidance and information for every type of blood cancer, request financial support, find emotional support, and connect with other members of the blood cancer community.
