Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a very slow developing blood disorder. It is very much possible for PV patients to have no symptoms for years after developing the condition.

Most of the patients, when diagnosed, surprised to find out that they have the disease for years without knowing about it. Thirty percent of those affected by PV experience headaches, weakness, itching, dizziness and sweating. Thirty percent may also experience blood clots before they are even diagnosed with Polycythemia. Forty to sixty percent of patients will experience blood clots in the first ten years after diagnosis.

Not everyone experiences all of the symptoms, or even if they are experienced they may not link them to any illness. In its early stages, Polycythemia Vera usually doesn't cause any signs or symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may experience the following Polycythemia Vera Symptoms :

• When you feel shortness of breath or find difficulties breathing difficulties while lying down.
• After getting warm shower or bath, you feel itching.
• Your Skin gets Red unusually.
• Headache and Faintness.
• Pain in Chest.
• Tiredness.
• Weakness in your hands, feet, arms or legs. Also feel numbness, tingling or burning.
• A feeling of fullness or bloating in your left upper abdomen due to an enlarged spleen.
• Visual impairment.
• Excessive bleeding and bruising.
• Weight loss

• Age
  Polycythemia Vera is more common in adults older than 60. It's rare in people younger than 20.
  
  
• Gender
  Men are two times more likely than women to develop the condition.
  
  
• Family History
  In some cases, Polycythemia Vera appears to run in families, indicating that genetic factors other than JAK2 may contribute to the disease.
  
  
• Environment
  Exposure to intense radiation may increase an individual's risk for the condition.