Journey to Polycythemia Vera

Living with Polycythemia means managing an invisible condition that affects every day differently. Some mornings I feel almost like myself, while other days even the simplest tasks feel incredibly difficult. The fatigue is unlike normal, tiredness—it’s a deep exhaustion that rest doesn’t always relieved. There are days when my body feels heavy, my strength fades, or my focus and balance just aren't there. Its unpredictability is what makes it so challenging. But what many don't see is the immense strength it takes to keep pushing forward, to keep showing up, and to keep trying. 🧡🎗️

Nothing to ask from you oh Lord.
You are my provider from the start.
You never leave me through all the challenges that I had surpassed.
Now in this battle against Polycythemia, oh Lord, stay beside me.
Give me wisdom so I could share with other people who suffer the same in this kind of disease.

In the name of your son Jesus.
Amen.

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Polycythemia Vera: Signs and Symptoms

Polycythemia vera is a rare chronic blood cancer that causes your bone marrow to produce too many red blood cells. This overproduction thickens the blood, slowing its flow and increasing the risk of blood clots. Many people with polycythemia vera don't experience noticeable symptoms, but some may develop vague or specific signs.

Common Symptoms

- Headache: Frequent headaches, especially in the morning, can be a sign of polycythemia vera.
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- Dizziness: Feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness can occur due to thickened blood.
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- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and weakness are common symptoms.
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- Blurred Vision: Vision problems such as blurred vision or double vision can also be a sign.
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- Itchiness: Pruritus, or itchy skin, especially after a warm bath or shower, is a characteristic symptom.
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- Numbness and Tingling: Peripheral neuropathy, causing numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hands or feet, can occur.

Specific Symptoms

- Feeling Full Quickly: A feeling of fullness soon after eating and bloating can be caused by an enlarged spleen.
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- Unusual Bleeding: Frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums can be a sign of polycythemia vera.
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- Painful Joint Swelling: Painful swelling of one joint, often the big toe, can occur due to gout.
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- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially when lying down, can be a symptom.

Advanced Symptoms

- Night Sweats: Excessive sweating, particularly at night, can be a sign of polycythemia vera.
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- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping can also occur.
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- Ringing in the Ears: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a symptom.
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- Reddened Face: The face may appear reddened due to increased blood flow.
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- Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of polycythemia vera.
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- Bone Pain: Pain in the bones can also occur.


If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Polycythemia vera is a chronic condition with no cure, but proper medical care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Include prayers. It is our best medication.
🙏🙏🙏

"Faith as Strong as Iron: Trusting in His Plan, Finding Peace in Polycythemia Vera"

Let us continue to have faith, strength, and trust in Him all difficult circumstances.

If you have two or more of these symptoms, and they are unexplained and persistent, it’s time to visit your doctor. It could be a sign of something more serious like blood cancer. Know the symptoms.

find out more here:

https://www.leukaemia.org.au/blood-cancer-information/types-of-blood-cancer/myeloproliferative-neoplasms/

😢💔😢💔😢