Symptom 4. Nosebleeds: The Unexpected Consequence of Viscosity
Few of us equate nosebleeds with blood conditions, typically attributing them to dry weather or perhaps a physical injury. Hyperviscosity syndrome, however, shifts this perspective. The blood’s increased thickness makes it harder for it to clot properly. When minor injuries occur inside the nostrils, these can lead to prolonged bleeding episodes.
The nasal cavity is a labyrinth of blood vessels, and these can be susceptible to ruptures. In someone with hyperviscosity syndrome, even a slight irritation or dryness can prompt bleeding. As the blood is less effective at forming clots, these bleeds can last longer and be more frequent than in someone without the condition.
On a microscopic level, platelets, the clot-forming blood cells, face an uphill task. Their function in wound healing becomes compromised. With the dense environment, they can’t reach the injury site as swiftly, delaying the clotting process and allowing the bleeding to persist. (4)
