What happens when there is a problem with erythropoiesis?

Erythropoiesis is the body’s process of producing erythrocytes or red blood cells. It ensures that the body produces the right number of red blood cells – neither too many nor too few. Problems during the erythropoiesis process may cause too few or too many red blood cells to be produced. 

When too few erythrocytes are produced, it leads to a condition known as anemia. In this condition, the red blood cells produced are not enough to transport oxygen to the different tissues in the body, resulting in weakness, fatigue, and feeling cold.

When excessive erythrocytes are produced, it leads to a condition known as erythrocytosis. The symptoms of erythrocytosis depend on what’s causing the excessive production of red blood cells, and can range from mild symptoms such as fatigue and headaches to more severe complications such as blood clots.