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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Elevated Hemoglobin Levels?

Bloodwork done and Hemoglobin level is high.?? It has been this way for a year now. Had 3 blood draws showing the same result. Also showed kidney disease, but last blood draw shows normal kidney functions. No problems, no blood or pain. Had taken Hydrochlorthiazide only for blood pressure for about 12 years and Dr. just took me off of this 4 weeks ago. Have appt with Hemotologist soon,, but am looking for some reasonable answers. I have never been sick or showed abnormal levels of Hgb before.
Wed, 2 Aug 2017
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Ayurveda Specialist,  's  Response
Hi There

After Going through your query I understand your concern.

I would like to tell you that hemoglobin level rises mostly if a person smoke or living at high altitude place because in both conditions production of red blood cell increases to fulfill oxygen requirement of body.

But in your case Diuretics ( Hydrochlorothiazide) can be the reason for higher levels of Hb, as long term use of diuretics alone for the treatment of hypertension can cause changes in heamoglobin levels.

Its advisable to stop Hydrochlorothiazide for 4 weeks as advised by your doctor and repeat the test for heamoglobin again.

Hopefully this has answered your query.

Kind Regards
Dr. Navneet Mahajan
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What Causes Elevated Hemoglobin Levels?

Hi There After Going through your query I understand your concern. I would like to tell you that hemoglobin level rises mostly if a person smoke or living at high altitude place because in both conditions production of red blood cell increases to fulfill oxygen requirement of body. But in your case Diuretics ( Hydrochlorothiazide) can be the reason for higher levels of Hb, as long term use of diuretics alone for the treatment of hypertension can cause changes in heamoglobin levels. Its advisable to stop Hydrochlorothiazide for 4 weeks as advised by your doctor and repeat the test for heamoglobin again. Hopefully this has answered your query. Kind Regards Dr. Navneet Mahajan