Just like any chronic health condition, polycythemia vera (PV) can have a negative impact on your everyday life. Research has shown that PV is associated with a lower quality of life in measures, including health, cognitive, emotional, and physical functioning.
Symptoms such as fatigue, itchy skin, and mental health issues can make it difficult to function, but they can be managed. “This is a chronic condition that people can live with,” says Jacqueline S. Garcia, MD, a medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.
Here are some common challenges of living with PV and ways to cope, so you can stay healthy and live well as you manage this condition.
1. Fatigue Can Interfere With Daily Activities
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of PV. “Polycythemia vera is a blood disorder that stems from an error in the bone marrow,” says Dr. Garcia. As a result, bone marrow overproduces red blood cells, causing the body to use up your iron supply. This results in iron deficiency, which leads to fatigue, she explains.
Another factor that can contribute to fatigue is phlebotomy treatment, which is a procedure that involves drawing blood to reduce blood cells and blood volume. A common side effect of this treatment is increased fatigue and iron deficiency, according to Garcia.
The degree of fatigue can vary from one person to another and depend on age, menopausal status, other health conditions — such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes — and more factors, says Garcia.
What to do about it: When it comes to polycythemia vera fatigue, research found that fatigue was a bigger problem for people who had a higher BMI, continued to drink alcohol or use tobacco, and didn’t exercise.
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits may help you feel more energized every day. For instance, Garcia recommends exercising in moderation, as long as you have your doctor’s okay and don’t push yourself if you feel faint.
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