HomeAnswersPulmonology (Asthma Doctors)polycythemiaWhy is my RBC count high after recovering from COVID-19?

I recovered from COVID-19, and my RBC count is higher than the normal. What can I do now?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Preetha. J

Published At October 13, 2020
Reviewed AtJuly 11, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I recovered from COVID-19 almost a month ago. Now my RBC count is 8.7, which is higher than the normal. What can I do now? I currently take Noni.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Thanks for the query. I can understand your concern. According to your statement, you have done CBC (complete blood count) test and shown RBC (red blood cell) count is 8.7, which is above normal. Increased RBC is known as polycythemia. The polycythemia may result from hypoxemia, leading to hypoxia, high altitude, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, hypoventilation syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stress, dehydration, cancer, etc. Clinical features are headache, dizziness, weakness, breathing difficulties, the fullness of pressure on the left side of the abdomen due to splenomegaly or enlargement of the spleen, itchy skin, etc. As you have no clinical features at present, so you should not be worried. Observe if any clinical features develop, then contact a physician. But one CBC report never confirms anything. So do repeat the CBC test after a month and then do as needful. In case of any other query, ask me.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply. Does it settle itself? Shall I follow any food protocol or anything else?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. Thanks for joining again. As you have no clinical features, you no need to take any medication or treatment. And one complete blood count (CBC) report has proven nothing. Do repeat two CBC tests concurrently after one month and then plan for treatment if needed. Hydroxyurea (Hydroxycarbamide) is the treatment of choice for polycythemia. Some people take Aspirin. You should reduce the number of animal products like red meat, milk, cheese, butter, white flour, sugar, processed foods, etc. Take lots of green leafy vegetables, fishes, fruit, etc. If any other query, knock me, and I will try to reply to you further.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Muhammad Zubayer Alam
Dr. Muhammad Zubayer Alam

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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