What might cause an elevated hemoglobin level?

An elevated hemoglobin level can be attributed to polycythemia, which is a condition characterized by an increase in the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. This increase leads to a higher amount of hemoglobin, as hemoglobin is the protein within red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Polycythemia can occur due to a variety of factors, including chronic low oxygen levels (as seen in lung diseases or living at high altitude) or intrinsic bone marrow disorders.

Other conditions such as burns, stress, or anemia do not typically cause elevated hemoglobin levels. For example, anemia usually results in lower hemoglobin levels due to insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin production. Burns can lead to fluid loss and dilution of blood components, potentially lowering hemoglobin levels rather than raising them. Stress may cause transient changes in hemodynamics but does not significantly increase the hemoglobin concentration like polycythemia does. Therefore, polycythemia stands out as the correct explanation for elevated hemoglobin levels.