Possible Complications
The most common complications are a result of the high viscosity (resistance to flow) of the blood, which can lead to blood clots (thrombosis). Clogging of both small and large blood vessels (embolism) can also occur.
Impaired blood circulation can cause the following problems:
- Portal vein thrombosis (obstruction of blood flow to the liver)
- Deep leg vein thrombosis (phlebothrombosis)
- Myocardial infarction
- Pulmonary embolism
- Stroke
- Temporary brain perfusion disturbances (transient ischemic attacks or TIAs)
The blood platelet (thrombocyte) count plays a significant role in blood coagulation.
Both the number of platelets and their function are responsible for the balance of the coagulation system. Hypercoagulation results in blood clotting, while lack of coagulation results in bleeding (e.g. skin, gastrointestinal tract).