Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of myMPNteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Too much blood taken at phlebotomy

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
May 6
 · 
Be the first to react
A myMPNteam Member

I asked my hematologist this question and basically in terms of blood loss. . .no. You may feel better as your blood isn’t so thick. I know I do. I can’t wait for my next one on the 13th.

As the AI responded, repeated phlebotomies have their own issues in terms of iron depletion. But as long as your hematocrit is above normal, you’re not at risk of blood depletion. We have lots of extra to spare 🙂 But some may have reactions to that much blood being removed at once and need smaller amounts removed to prevent those issues from occurring.

May 7 (edited)
myMPNteam

Is too much blood being taken during phlebotomy a concern with polycythemia vera (PV)?

Phlebotomy is the standard treatment for PV, and typically up to one pint (500 milliliters) of blood is drawn per session — similar to donating blood. The goal is to bring hematocrit levels below 45 percent. One real risk with repeated Show Full Answer

Is too much blood being taken during phlebotomy a concern with polycythemia vera (PV)?

Phlebotomy is the standard treatment for PV, and typically up to one pint (500 milliliters) of blood is drawn per session — similar to donating blood. The goal is to bring hematocrit levels below 45 percent. One real risk with repeated phlebotomy sessions is iron deficiency. Here's how that cycle can unfold:

- Repeated phlebotomies gradually deplete iron levels
- Low iron causes its own uncomfortable symptoms
- If iron is supplemented to fix the deficiency, it can fuel more red blood cell production
- That then leads to needing even more phlebotomies

It's worth raising any concerns about how much blood is being drawn, or symptoms felt afterward, directly with a hematologist. Some lightheadedness or dizziness after a session is not unusual. A few helpful tips to manage this:

- Drink about 8 glasses of water the day before the procedure
- Continue staying well hydrated for a day or two after
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco for the rest of the day after the procedure
- Skip strenuous exercise for at least one day afterward

May 6

Related Questions

View All

Can I request to have my blood taken out to lower red blood cells

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
Ramsgate, UK
April 27

What is the difference between a phlebotomy and blood letting?

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
TX
May 8

Is ET the culprit of me having high blood pressure that’s difficult to treat?

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
Oklahoma City, OK
May 18

Polycythemia Vera and Phlebotomy
Beyond Phlebotomy: Other Treatment Options for Polycythemia Vera
Understanding Complete Blood Counts in MPNs
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In