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Hyperviscosity

Meaning

Hyperviscosity is a clinical condition characterized by an abnormally high viscosity, or thickness and stickiness, of the blood, which impedes blood flow and increases resistance within the circulatory system. This increased resistance places a significant burden on the heart and can lead to symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, and an elevated risk of thromboembolic events like stroke or deep vein thrombosis. In hormonal health, this is often a clinical consideration in patients receiving testosterone replacement therapy due to potential increases in hematocrit.