What Causes Thick Blood?
Thick blood, medically referred to as hyperviscosity syndrome or hypercoagulability, occurs when the balance of proteins and cells in your blood is disrupted, leading to increased thickness and slower flow. This increased thickness raises the risk of blood clots. Several factors contribute to this condition.
Several factors can cause blood to thicken:
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Increased number of blood cells: Too many red blood cells (polycythemia vera, a type of blood cancer), white blood cells, or platelets significantly increase blood viscosity. [Source: Multiple references including CancerSmoc, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine]
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Irregularly shaped red blood cells: Abnormal red blood cell shapes impede smooth blood flow, effectively thickening the blood. [Source: Cleveland Clinic]
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Imbalance in the blood clotting system: Deficiencies in proteins like protein C, protein S, or antithrombin, mutations in Factor V or prothrombin, or the presence of lupus inhibitors can disrupt the delicate balance of clotting factors, resulting in thicker blood. [Source: Multiple references including initial reference]
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High levels of blood proteins: An excess of proteins in the blood increases its viscosity. [Source: CancerSmoc]
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Certain cancers: Some cancers can indirectly contribute to blood thickening. [Source: Initial reference]
Conditions Associated with Thick Blood
Several conditions are associated with increased blood thickness:
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Polycythemia Vera: This blood cancer leads to an overproduction of red blood cells, making the blood thicker and increasing the risk of blood clots. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Medical News Today]
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Erythrocytosis: This condition, also known as polycythemia, involves a high concentration of red blood cells, leading to thicker blood. [Source: NHS]
Understanding Blood Viscosity
Blood viscosity, or thickness, is crucial for proper circulation. An increase in viscosity slows blood flow, potentially leading to complications such as blood clots, heart problems, and organ damage.
