What causes high blood viscosity

High blood viscosity may be related to genetic factors, insufficient water intake, high-fat diet, lack of exercise, chronic diseases, and other factors. Elevated blood viscosity is usually manifested as symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and blurred vision, which need to be improved through lifestyle adjustments or medication treatment.

1. Genetic factors

Some populations may experience abnormal lipid metabolism due to genetic defects, which can easily lead to familial hypercholesterolemia. These patients have consistently high levels of low-density lipoprotein in their blood, reduced red blood cell deformability, and may be accompanied by yellow tumors or early-onset arteriosclerosis. It is recommended to regularly check the four levels of blood lipids, and if necessary, use medication such as atorvastatin calcium tablets for intervention.

2. Insufficient water intake

Drinking less than 1500 milliliters of water per day can reduce plasma volume and relatively increase hematocrit. This is particularly evident when water is not replenished in a timely manner after high temperatures or intense exercise in summer, and dehydration symptoms such as dry mouth and darkened urine color may occur. Develop a habit of drinking water regularly, and choose diluted salt water or electrolyte drinks to replenish water.

3. High fat diet

Long term intake of high cholesterol foods such as animal organs and fried foods can cause triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein to deposit on the blood vessel wall. This group of people often have symptoms such as excessive waist circumference and drowsiness after meals. It is necessary to reduce the intake of saturated fatty acids and increase foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and walnuts.

4. Lack of exercise

Prolonged sitting can slow down blood circulation, reduce lipoprotein activity, and decrease the clearance rate of chylomicrons. Engaging in aerobic activities such as brisk walking and swimming 3-5 times a week for at least 30 minutes each time can help increase high-density lipoprotein levels and improve red blood cell aggregation.

5. Chronic disease

When the blood sugar of patients with diabetes is poorly controlled, the increase of glycosylated hemoglobin will lead to the increase of erythrocyte rigidity. Endothelial injury in hypertensive patients can promote platelet aggregation. These patients need to be strictly monitored for blood glucose and blood pressure, and aspirin enteric coated tablets and metformin hydrochloride tablets can be used in combination to control disease progression.

It is important to maintain a daily intake of 2000 milliliters of water and avoid prolonged exposure to the same position. Choose more anticoagulant ingredients such as onions and black fungus in your diet, and limit high-fat foods such as fatty meat and cream. People over 40 years old are recommended to undergo annual blood rheology tests. If symptoms such as persistent headaches and numbness in limbs occur, they should seek medical attention promptly to avoid triggering cardiovascular and cerebrovascular accidents. Smokers should quit smoking as soon as possible, as nicotine significantly increases fibrinogen concentration and exacerbates blood viscosity.