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Reducing blood viscosity with magnetic fields

R Tao1, K Huang

  • 1Department of Physics, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, USA. rtao@temple.edu

Physical Review. E, Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics
|August 27, 2011
PubMed

Insights

High blood viscosity increases heart disease risk. Applying strong magnetic fields (1 T+) can significantly reduce blood viscosity, offering a new physical therapy approach without harming red blood cells.

Area of Science:

  • Biophysics
  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Medical Physics

Background:

  • Increased blood viscosity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks.
  • Current treatments, like aspirin, have undesirable side effects.
  • Damage to blood vessels is associated with elevated blood viscosity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential of magnetic fields in reducing blood viscosity.
  • To explore a non-pharmacological method for managing blood viscosity.
  • To assess the impact of magnetic field exposure on blood viscosity and red blood cell function.

Main Methods:

  • Exposing blood to magnetic fields of 1 Tesla (T) or higher, aligned with the blood flow direction.
  • Applying a single magnetic field pulse of 1.3 T for approximately 1 minute.
  • Monitoring changes in blood viscosity post-exposure and over time.
  • Evaluating the functional integrity of red blood cells after magnetic field treatment.

Main Results:

  • A single magnetic field pulse (1.3 T, ~1 min) reduced blood viscosity by 20%-30%.
  • Blood viscosity gradually returned to baseline levels over several hours in the absence of a magnetic field.
  • The viscosity-reducing effect of magnetic fields is repeatable.
  • Magnetic field exposure did not impair the normal function of red blood cells.

Conclusions:

  • Magnetic field application is a viable method for reducing blood viscosity.
  • This technique offers a repeatable and non-damaging approach to manage blood viscosity.
  • The findings suggest potential applications for magnetic field therapy in cardiovascular health and physical therapy.

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