Symptom 9. Joint Pain: An Unforeseen Side Effect
Joint pain is commonly associated with aging, wear and tear, or specific conditions like arthritis. Rarely would one connect it to the thickness of their blood. Yet, hyperviscosity syndrome throws this curveball.
Inside our joints, there’s a lubricating fluid called synovial fluid. This fluid relies on a steady supply of nutrients, delivered through blood. With the increased blood viscosity, this supply gets hampered, leading to joint discomfort and pain.
But why? Well, the compromised nutrient supply means the joint isn’t as well-lubricated or nourished as it should be. Over time, this can cause a slight inflammation in the joints, manifesting as pain. This discomfort might initially be dismissed as a result of physical activity or age, but its persistent nature can hint at its true origins.
While larger joints like the knees or elbows might be the primary complainers, smaller joints in the hands and feet can also chime in with their discomforts. Over time, this can impact mobility, turning simple tasks into painful endeavors.
Peeling back the layers, the connection between joint pain and hyperviscosity offers another testament to the body’s intricate design, where a single alteration can have wide-reaching effects. (9)
