Increase in blood viscosity due to alcohol drinking

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Hematology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Blood rheology is a critical determinant of blood flow and is implicated in thrombotic diseases.
• Understanding how lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption affect blood rheology is essential for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of alcohol consumption on blood rheology, specifically whole blood and plasma viscosity.
• To determine the primary mechanism behind alcohol-induced changes in blood viscosity.

Main Methods:

• Whole blood and plasma viscosity were measured in 18 healthy volunteers before and after consuming alcohol at a social gathering.
• Statistical analysis was performed to assess the significance of changes in viscosity and their correlation with hemoconcentration markers.
• In vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the direct effect of alcohol on blood viscosity at various concentrations.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in whole blood viscosity (7.4%) and plasma viscosity (3.0%) was observed after alcohol consumption (P < 0.005 for both).
• Significant correlations were found between increased blood viscosity and markers of hemoconcentration, suggesting hemoconcentration as the main contributing factor.
• Alcohol did not directly increase whole blood viscosity in vitro at concentrations up to 0.4% (w/v).

Conclusions:

• Alcohol consumption acutely increases blood and plasma viscosity in healthy individuals.
• Hemoconcentration is the primary mechanism responsible for alcohol-induced increases in blood viscosity.
• These rheological changes may have implications for the risk of thrombotic events in the context of alcohol consumption.