The thickening of blood, also known as hyperviscosity syndrome, occurs when blood becomes too thick to flow freely through the blood vessels.
Understanding Hyperviscosity Syndrome
Hyperviscosity syndrome is characterized by blood that is abnormally thick, leading to impaired blood flow. This increased thickness can result from various factors:
- Excessive Blood Cells: An overabundance of red blood cells (polycythemia), white blood cells (leukemia), or platelets (thrombocythemia) can increase blood viscosity.
- Abnormal Blood Proteins: High levels of certain proteins, such as immunoglobulins (as seen in multiple myeloma or Waldenström macroglobulinemia), can thicken the blood.
- Irregularly Shaped Red Blood Cells: Conditions like sickle cell anemia, where red blood cells are abnormally shaped, can contribute to increased viscosity.
- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can reduce the water content of blood, leading to higher concentration of blood components and increased viscosity.
Consequences of Thickened Blood
The impaired blood flow caused by hyperviscosity can lead to a range of symptoms and complications, including:
- Neurological Issues: Headaches, dizziness, vision changes, seizures, and stroke can occur due to reduced blood flow to the brain.
- Bleeding: Paradoxically, thickened blood can sometimes lead to increased bleeding due to impaired clotting factor function.
- Cardiovascular Problems: Increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and other cardiovascular events.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Reduced oxygen delivery to tissues can cause fatigue and weakness.
- Skin Changes: Poor circulation can lead to skin discoloration and ulceration.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure blood viscosity and identify underlying causes. Treatment focuses on reducing blood viscosity and addressing the underlying condition. Options include:
- Phlebotomy: Removal of blood to reduce the number of red blood cells (for polycythemia).
- Chemotherapy or other medications: To reduce the production of abnormal blood cells or proteins.
- Plasmapheresis: A procedure to remove and replace plasma, which can help remove excess proteins.
- Hydration: Increasing fluid intake to dilute the blood.
