FAQs

Why do I need a Blood Viscosity Test?  

      Your Blood Viscosity Profile tells you the level of damage your blood is causing to your arteries. Together with your cholesterol and blood pressure measurements, your Blood Viscosity Profile will provide a superior predictive profile over just cholesterol and blood pressure alone. Many people with good cholesterol levels and low blood pressure still die of sudden heart attacks or are debilitated by a stroke.

What do I receive in my report and how do I read it?
 
      Your report will be faxed or mailed directly to your doctor or cardiologist, who can review it with you. Should they have any questions about the results, they may contact The Blood Clinic to speak with a blood viscosity professional.
 
Do I need a doctor to order this test? 

      Regulations vary from state to state. The Blood Clinic recommends that you ask your doctor contact us to order a testing kit. The blood must be drawn by a licensed facility or person. Needles are not included in the kit.

Is this test covered by insurance?
 
      This test is not currently covered by insurance. 

How often should I have Blood Viscosity Test done?

      A Blood Viscosity Profile should be as regular as a cholesterol test and can happen at the same time. Once you receive your results, you may want to incorporate changes into your lifestyle including dietary changes, exercise, and a regimen of vitamin supplements. You may also want to start donating blood, or your doctor may begin to prescribe therapeutic phlebotomy for you. The specific changes should be determined by your doctor.

 
What makes blood viscous (thick)?
 
      The three most influential factors that make blood thick are: (i) hematocrit, or the percentage of red cells in your blood volume, (ii) how soft and deformable your red cells are, and (iii) your plasma content including cholesterol and fibrinogen. Smokers have been shown to have 20% higher blood viscosity than non-smokers. Obesity patients have been shown to have a 15% higher blood viscosity than  non-obese. Many factors must be considered when reviewing a Blood Viscosity Profile, and more factors become evident every day as the properties of blood continue to be studied. Currently at the forefront of this research is: Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Hematocrit, RBC Aggregation, C-Reactive Protein and Fibrinogen.
 
Can I get a Blood Viscosity Profile if I am taking an anticoagulant like coumadin or warfarin?

      Anticoagulants are designed to stop your blood from clotting. Reducing viscosity is not their purpose.