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Hypercoagulability

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Question: What is Hypercoagulability? I keep googleing it, and can't find a direct answer! maybe it's because i'm reading something i don't want to hear. the thing is, my sister has recently learned that she's got very thick blood (referred to as "Hypercoagulability" - a term i just now learned online) and clotting in her lungs. Does anyone know what exactly Hypercoagulability is or where I can find clear information about it? Many thanks!

Answer: Wow. Dr. House is so smart. He copied and pasted from some website with so much information is so little space that it's hardly understandable. In terms one can understand, hypercoagulability means that your sister's blood clots too quickly/easily. This is typically a genetic condition which requires blood tests to pinpoint the specifics of, but what it boils down to is that she will require life long treatment with anticoagulants to thin her blood. (i.e. coumadin) The health concerns associated with hypercoagulability are associated with the clots that can form inside the body. DVTs, or deep vein thromboses, are common for people with this condition, and usually their occurence is what leads to diagnosis in the first place. DVT's can decrease circulation to the limb or area distal to the clot, which causes pain, swelling, and numbness. If the clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs or brain (which in some cases can be fatal). Strict adherence to the medication regimen is important. If necessary, a surgeon can also implant an IVC filter that will catch clots that break free and prevent them from traveling to other areas of the body. Hope that helps.


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