What does it mean when hemoglobin levels are elevated?
Disease description:
I’ve recently had slightly elevated hemoglobin levels—what does “elevated hemoglobin” mean?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Man
Polycythemia may be present. Polycythemia is categorized into hypoxia-related (secondary) polycythemia. Major underlying causes include cardiopulmonary disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea. Living at high altitude can also lead to secondary polycythemia. Additionally, renal conditions—including renal artery stenosis and renal cysts—may cause polycythemia. This latter form represents a myeloproliferative disorder.
