Sticky blood, also known as hypercoagulability or thrombophilia, is a condition where a person’s blood has an increased tendency to clot. This can lead to the formation of dangerous blood clots inside blood vessels, a process known as thrombosis. While some degree of blood clotting is normal and necessary to stop bleeding, in sticky blood the balance tips too far in favor of clotting, putting a person at risk.
What causes sticky blood?
There are several potential causes of sticky blood:
- Genetic factors – Certain genetic mutations or variants can increase clotting. Examples include Factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene mutation, and deficiencies in natural anticoagulants protein C, protein S, or antithrombin.
- Acquired factors – Things like pregnancy, taking birth control pills, obesity, injury or trauma, recent surgery, and prolonged bed rest or inactivity can also increase clotting risks.
- Medical conditions – Some diseases are associated with hypercoagulability, including cancer, autoimmune disorders like lupus, and kidney or liver disease.
- Medications – Certain prescription drugs like tamoxifen or erythropoietin can tip the balance towards clotting.
Often sticky blood is caused by a combination of inherited and acquired factors that together create the tendency for excessive clotting.
What are the symptoms of sticky blood?
Many people with sticky blood may not have any obvious symptoms. However, possible signs can include:
- A history of unexplained blood clots, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, or heart attack, especially at a young age
- Thrombosis occurring in unusual sites like the abdominal veins, brain, or skin
- Recurrent miscarriages or pregnancy loss
- Family history of blood clots
Blood clots can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, so early diagnosis is important. Testing can identify any underlying blood clotting disorders.
How is sticky blood diagnosed?
Diagnosing sticky blood involves blood tests to check clotting function. These may include:
- D-dimer – A high level indicates increased clot breakdown
- Prothrombin time (PT) – Assesses clotting factors like prothrombin
- Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) – Measures intrinsic clotting pathway
- Fibrinogen – High levels increase clot risk
- Thrombin time (TT) – Tests fibrinogen function
- Platelet count – High platelet levels promote clotting
- Coagulation factor assays – Check for genetic defects or deficiencies
Your doctor may also recommend testing for underlying medical conditions associated with sticky blood. A complete blood count, metabolic panel, and urinalysis can help rule out contributing disorders.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment focuses on preventing blood clots from forming and reducing future clotting risk. Options may include:
- Anticoagulants – Blood thinners like heparin, warfarin, or direct oral anticoagulants help prevent clots
- Antiplatelets – Prevent platelet clumping and thrombosis
- Compression stockings – Improve blood flow in legs
- Lifestyle changes – Quit smoking, increase activity, lose weight
- Avoid estrogen – Hormones in birth control and HRT can increase clot risk
Treatment duration depends on the cause and risk factors. Some people may need lifelong anticoagulation to prevent recurrence.
What are the complications?
Potential complications of undiagnosed or untreated sticky blood include:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – Blood clot in leg veins
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) – Clot traveling to lungs
- Stroke – Clot blocking blood supply to brain
- Heart attack – Clot blocking coronary arteries
- Thrombophlebitis – Inflamed vein from clot
- Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension – High blood pressure in lungs due to clots
- Postphlebitic syndrome – Leg swelling and pain from DVT damage
- Recurrent miscarriage – Blood clots in placenta
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to reduce the likelihood of these serious and potentially fatal complications.
How can sticky blood be prevented?
Steps to help prevent sticky blood and its complications include:
- Get tested if you have clotting risk factors
- Take blood thinners if prescribed
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid long periods of inactivity
- Wear compression stockings when traveling
- Discuss hormone therapy risks with your doctor
Making lifestyle changes and following your doctor’s recommendations can help keep your blood flowing smoothly.
Conclusion
Sticky blood or hypercoagulability is a condition where blood clots too easily. It may be inherited or caused by other factors like medications, pregnancy, or inactivity. Symptoms are not always obvious but can include unexplained blood clots or pregnancy loss. Tests like D-dimer and PT/PTT can help diagnose clotting disorders. Treatment with blood thinners and lifestyle changes helps reduce the risks of serious complications like stroke, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism. Preventative steps like exercise, hydration, and compression stockings can also help avoid problems with sticky blood.