It can be challenging to identify typical symptoms of polycythemia vera (PV), including as exhaustion, itching, and night sweats. Although they may seem like symptoms of aging, Polycythemia Vera is an uncommon blood malignancy that usually progresses slowly.
John Mascarenhas, MD, the director of the Center of Excellence for Blood Cancers and Myeloid Disorders and a professor of medicine, explains that you are the key to recognizing your Polycythemia Vera symptoms so that they can be addressed. Thus, be truthful with both your medical practitioner and yourself.
Indicators of a deteriorating or new Polycythemia Vera can also be present. It’s crucial to always discuss any changes to your health with your healthcare provider for this reason.
Are These Signs of Normal Aging or PV Symptoms?
Determining if your symptoms are associated with Polycythemia Vera or aging-related can be challenging. Here are some methods to assist you in distinguishing between the two:
Weary Observe any shifts in your level of energy. Consider this:
- Is the fatigue unexplained?
- Am I tired even after a good night’s sleep?
- Is it difficult to get through the day?
- Do I have shortness of breath?
Itching – Ask yourself:
- After I shower, do I still feel itchy?
- How frequently?
- Are there any other times I get itchy?
Bone pain – Don’t mistake this for arthritis.
- The bone pain associated with Polycythemia Vera is not the same as the arthritic joints’ localized pain. Your entire body hurts deeply when you get Polycythemia Vera pain.
Night sweats – Can mimic the overnight sweating some women experience during menopause. Ask yourself:
- Was I experiencing night sweats a month ago?
- Are night sweats interfering with my sleep?
Brain fog – This is a common complaint of getting older.
- While it may be normal to misplace your keys from time to time, if you start to experience more consistent forgetfulness or trouble concentrating, it may be a symptom of Polycythemia Vera.
Fever, inadvertent weight loss, and stomach pain or discomfort are all typical signs of PV to be aware of.
