What makes thick blood

It is not an inherited genetic disorder. In most cases it is not known why this happens. When you have more blood and it is thicker than normal, problems can occur. Symptoms may include:. These symptoms may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will take your medical history and give you a physical exam. Your provider may also do blood tests.

These tests will check the increased number of red blood cells in your body. They will also check if there are other conditions that could cause your higher red blood cell count. Polycythemia vera can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. It can cause blood clots resulting in a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.

Liver and spleen enlargement are other possible complications. There is no cure for polycythemia vera, but proper treatment can help to reduce or delay any problems. Work with your healthcare provider to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. You should also be physically active in order to increase your heart rate and improve your blood flow. Health Home Conditions and Diseases. What causes polycythemia vera? A PE can occur when part of a clot detaches and travels to the heart or lungs.

If this happens, the fragment can cause a new clot, block blood flow, and interfere with gas exchange in the lungs. A PE is a life threatening emergency. Other possible complications of blood clots include :. Certain medical conditions can cause the blood to become thick, increasing the risk of clots and other complications. Anyone with a family history of thick blood or blood clotting disorders should speak with a doctor about the risks and possible complications.

Also, seek medical advice about any unusual symptoms. Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage thick blood and reduce the risk of blood clots and other potential problems. This article looks at the mitral valve and diseases of the mitral valve, including their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Fat embolisms can happen after a bone fracture. Particles of fat enter the bloodstream, which can cause the rare but serious fat embolism syndrome….

A wide range of factors influences blood pressure. Learn more about normalizing blood pressure here. All you need to know about thick blood. Causes Symptoms Treatment Complications Takeaway A person with thick blood, or hypercoagulability, may be prone to blood clots. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Everything to know about the mitral valve. Medically reviewed by Dr. Payal Kohli, M.

What is a fat embolism? How can I stabilize my blood pressure? Seek emergency medical help if you think that you or someone you're with is having a heart attack or stroke. Polycythaemia can be divided into several different types, depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, an underlying cause can't be identified. Apparent polycythaemia is often caused by being overweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol or taking certain medicines — including diuretics tablets for high blood pressure that make you pee more.

Apparent polycythaemia may improve if the underlying cause is identified and managed. Stopping smoking or reducing your alcohol intake, for example, may help. There are 2 main types:. PV is rare. It's usually caused by a change in the JAK2 gene, which causes the bone marrow cells to produce too many red blood cells. The affected bone marrow cells can also develop into other cells found in the blood, which means that people with PV may also have abnormally high numbers of both platelets and white bloods cells.

Although caused by a genetic change, PV isn't usually inherited. Most cases develop later in life. The average age at diagnosis is Secondary polycythaemia is where an underlying condition causes more erythropoietin to be produced. This is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the bone marrow cells to produce red blood cells. Your GP may refer you to a haematologist a specialist in blood disorders for more tests, to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment for polycythaemia aims to prevent symptoms and complications such as blood clots , and treat any underlying causes. Venesection is the simplest and quickest way of reducing the number of red cells in your blood. It may be recommended if you have PV, a history of blood clots, or symptoms suggesting your blood is too thick.

Venesection involves removing about 1 pint half a litre of blood at a time, in a similar way to the procedure used for blood donation. How often this is needed will be different for each person.

At first, you may need the treatment every week, but once your polycythaemia is under control you may only need it every 6 to 12 weeks or less. Many different medicines are available and your specialist will take into account your age and health, response to venesection and red blood cell count when choosing the most appropriate one for you.