High red blood cell count

Understanding elevated red blood cell counts (polycythemia), a common concern for men on TRT or living at high altitudes. Learn about the causes, health risks, and management strategies to keep your blood viscosity in a safe range.

Start here

The essentials for high red blood cell count — then explore the latest posts below.

How to lower hematocrit on trt safely and effectively

How to lower hematocrit on trt safely and effectively

Dr. Alexander Grant, MD, PhD avatar
Dr. Alexander Grant, MD, PhD: Urologist & Men's Health Advocate
Dec 11, 2025 · 11 min read

The safest way to lower hematocrit on TRT is to reduce testosterone peaks by lowering the dose and/or switching from infrequent injections to more frequent micro-dosing or a steadier transdermal method, because testosterone increases red blood cell production through kidney-driven erythropoietin (EPO) signaling. Since elevated hematocrit affects roughly 5% to 66% of men on therapy, ...

Special OfferLab panels included: $300/year free for all members