PV symptoms result primarily from an elevated red blood cell count. That said, a high number of platelets and white blood cells also play a role in certain symptoms and complications.
It’s important to note that the course of PV is quite variable, meaning some people have a mild disease with few symptoms whereas others have a more severe, debilitating disease. Those with few symptoms of PV are often only diagnosed incidentally after a routine medical visit.
And while nonspecific symptoms like headache, dizziness, facial flushing, weakness, excessive sweating, and unusual tiredness are common, there are also specific symptoms to note, along with helpful strategies for managing them.