Question Title: VSD/Eisenmeinger's & hypervascocity

I have a VSD and Eisenmeinger's Syndrome.
I understand that part of the syndrome is hypervascotiy.
I am 33, female 5' / 95lb. my O2 is normally around 80,
with Hematocrit fluctuating between 55 and 58.

I would like to know if there are any quidelines for
optimal hematocrit levels under these conditions.

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Dear Rhonda,
I am assuming that your resting O2 saturation is in the 80s. Regardless the
optimal hematocrit for patients with ES and VSD is that which their body requires
to provide adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues. This level is probably around
65% for you. Anything over 75%, there can be problems with hyperviscosity, however
the Red Blood Cells that do not have adequate hemoglobin(anemia)may even make the blood
more viscous and increase the risk of stroke and the like. Current thinking
therefore is to keep the hematocrit up, but not too high and this should be
individualized to the patient. Good Luck. Informtion provided in the heart forum
is intended for general medical informational purposes only, actual diagnosis and
treatment can only be made by your physician(s).

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