Thick Blood Due to Factor V Leiden and Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) High Phytanic Acid Levels and Muscle Dysfunction

By SWA

Having "thick blood" usually refers to a condition where the blood is more viscous (sticky) than normal. This increased thickness can make it harder for blood to flow smoothly through veins and arteries, raising the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), strokes, and heart attacks.

One of the major causes of thick blood is genetic clotting disorders, including Factor V Leiden and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). These conditions increase the likelihood of abnormal blood clot formation, making proper management essential for long-term health.

Causes of Thick Blood

Several medical conditions and factors can contribute to thicker-than-normal blood, including:

1. Polycythemia Vera

  • A rare blood disorder caused by a mutation in the JAK2 gene, leading to an overproduction of red blood cells (RBCs). This excessive RBC count increases blood viscosity.

2. High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis)

  • An excess number of platelets in the blood can heighten the risk of abnormal clot formation.

3. Dehydration

  • When the body loses too much water, the liquid portion of the blood (plasma) decreases, making the blood more concentrated and sluggish.

4. High Fibrinogen Levels

  • Fibrinogen is a protein that helps blood clot, but excess levels can lead to increased blood thickness and a higher risk of clotting.

5. Genetic Clotting Disorders (Factor V Leiden, APS)

  • Factor V Leiden and APS are inherited or immune-related conditions that increase the tendency of the blood to clot, leading to serious complications like strokes and recurrent pregnancy loss.

Understanding Factor V Leiden and APS

Factor V Leiden

Factor V Leiden is a genetic mutation that affects Factor V, a protein involved in blood clotting. In people with this mutation, Factor V is resistant to being broken down by activated protein C (APC), causing prolonged clotting activity.

Symptoms & Risks:

  • Some individuals may never experience symptoms, while others may develop recurrent blood clots in the legs (DVT) or lungs (PE).
  • Women with Factor V Leiden have an increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as miscarriages or preeclampsia.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)

APS is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system produces antibodies that attack phospholipids, a type of fat found in blood cells. This increases the risk of abnormal blood clot formation.

Symptoms & Risks:

  • APS can cause DVT, strokes, and pregnancy complications such as recurrent miscarriages.
  • Unlike Factor V Leiden, APS is not strictly genetic but is linked to immune system dysfunction.

Managing Thick Blood with Genetic Clotting Disorders

If you have Factor V Leiden or APS, managing blood thickness is crucial to preventing dangerous complications. Treatment often involves anticoagulants (blood thinners) to reduce clotting risks.

Common Blood Thinners

Doctors may prescribe:

  • Warfarin (Coumadin) – Requires regular blood tests (INR monitoring) to ensure proper dosage.
  • Heparin – Often used for short-term clot prevention, especially in hospitalized patients.
  • Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) – Medications like rivaroxaban (Xarelto) or apixaban (Eliquis) are alternatives that do not require frequent monitoring.

Natural Ways to Support Healthy Circulation

While natural remedies cannot replace prescribed blood thinners, certain foods and lifestyle habits may support healthy circulation:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts) help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health.
  • Garlic & Ginger contain compounds that may have mild anticoagulant effects.
  • Turmeric (Curcumin) may help reduce clotting tendencies but should be used cautiously if taking blood thinners.

2. Hydration

  • Drinking enough water prevents blood from becoming too concentrated and thick.

3. Regular Movement

  • Exercise and movement reduce the risk of blood pooling and clot formation, especially for people with a sedentary lifestyle.

4. Caution with Vitamin K

  • Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale) are high in vitamin K, which promotes clotting. If you take Warfarin, you should consume vitamin K in moderation and consult your doctor.

📌 Important: If you're taking anticoagulant medications, always check with your doctor before adding new supplements or making major dietary changes, as some natural substances can interfere with blood thinners.

High Phytanic Acid Levels & Their Impact on Clotting Disorders

Phytanic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid that accumulates in conditions like Refsum disease and can worsen Factor V Leiden and APS due to its effects on lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

1. Phytanic Acid and Prothrombotic State

  • Phytanic acid disrupts lipid metabolism, increasing oxidative stress and inflammation—both of which can contribute to a hypercoagulable state.

2. Impact on Factor V Leiden

  • Phytanic acid may increase clotting risk by damaging blood vessels and impairing the function of activated protein C (APC).
  • It may also alter liver metabolism, affecting clotting factor production.

3. Impact on APS

  • Since APS is an autoimmune disorder, phytanic acid may worsen immune system dysfunction, potentially increasing APS-related clotting risk.

4. Additional Risks

  • Neuropathy & Muscle Dysfunction – In severe cases of phytanic acid accumulation (like Refsum disease), nerve and muscle issues can lead to immobility, which further increases clotting risks.
  • Liver Dysfunction – Since the liver regulates clotting factors, phytanic acid buildup may interfere with normal blood clot regulation.

Managing Phytanic Acid Levels

  • A low-phytanic acid diet (avoiding dairy, certain meats, and fish) can help prevent excessive accumulation.
  • Regular metabolic monitoring is crucial for individuals with Refsum disease or related metabolic disorders.

When to See a Doctor

If you have Factor V Leiden or APS, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

🔴 Unexplained swelling, pain, or redness in the legs (possible DVT).
🔴 Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (possible PE).
🔴 Frequent headaches, dizziness, or vision changes (possible clot-related complications).
🔴 Recurring miscarriages or pregnancy issues (if trying to conceive).

📌 Regular blood tests (such as INR or aPTT monitoring) are essential for keeping clotting levels in check. Medical follow-ups ensure proper management and help adjust treatment plans as needed.

© 2000-2025 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a fife year copy right. Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742 ISBN: 0-9703195-0-9

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