What does it mean when hgb and mch are high?

High levels of hemoglobin (Hgb) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) indicate an increased concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells. This is commonly associated with conditions such as polycythemia vera, a disorder where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells. Here are a few reasons why Hgb and MCH might be high:

1. Polycythemia Vera (PV): PV is a myeloproliferative disorder characterized by an overproduction of red blood cells by the bone marrow. This leads to an elevated red blood cell count, Hgb, and MCH.

2. Secondary Polycythemia: Certain conditions can cause an increase in red blood cell production as a compensatory mechanism in response to various factors, such as:

- High Altitude: Living at high altitudes stimulates the production of erythropoietin, a hormone that promotes red blood cell production, resulting in increased Hgb and MCH levels.

- Chronic Lung Disease: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung conditions that cause hypoxia (low oxygen levels) can lead to secondary polycythemia.

- Smoking: Smoking can raise carboxyhemoglobin levels in the blood, reducing oxygen-carrying capacity and triggering the production of more red blood cells.

3. Dehydration: Severe dehydration can lead to increased Hgb and MCH levels due to the hemoconcentration of blood, which occurs when the fluid portion of blood decreases, making the red blood cell concentration higher.

4. Rare Conditions: In rare cases, genetic mutations or certain blood disorders can lead to abnormally high hemoglobin levels. These conditions require specialized medical evaluation and diagnosis.

It's important to note that while high Hgb and MCH can be associated with polycythemia, other factors and medical conditions can also cause these values to increase. If you have concerns about your Hgb and MCH levels, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.