CBS.com; CBS All Access; CBS News; CBSN; Watching Live TV. All Access Live TV; TV Provider
The extra red blood cells make your blood thicker than normal. As a result, blood clots can form more easily. These clots can block blood flow through your arteries and veins, which can cause a heart attack or stroke. Thicker blood also doesn't flow as quickly to your body as normal blood.
If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may ask you to check it at home. High blood pressure can cause the heart muscle to thicken.The correct answer is true. As the heart muscle works harder, it can become so thick that it doesn't get enough oxygen. This can cause chest pain and may lead to heart failure.