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A member asked:

I live in denver. i have a very slightly elevated red blood cell count, but normal blood oxygen levels 96%-99%. what can cause this? i have a 6.4 reading on red blood cell count. all other blood metrics are normal.

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Richard Zimon answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Those "extra": Red Blood cells are most likely what is keeping your O-2 SATS normal...."secondary" POLYCYTHEMIA (increased RBC counts) is a "coping" mechanism our bodies make when we live at high altitudes! Hope this is helpful! Dr Z

Answered 2/4/2021

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Thank

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