By: Vishal Mehta, B.Pharm, RPh
Hemophilia is a rare, usually inherited disorder that causes excessive bleeding due to a lack of blood-clotting proteins. It may be mild or severe.
Common symptoms of hemophilia include:
- many large or deep bruises,
- pain or swelling of joints,
- blood in urine or stool,
- unexplained nosebleeds,
- unexplained and excessive bleeding from injuries or after surgery or dental work,
- unusual bleeding after vaccinations,
- in infants, unexplained irritability,
- rarely, brain bleeds.
Severe cases are usually diagnosed early in life, while mild forms may not appear until adulthood. Genetic testing can be used if there is a family history of hemophilia. Clotting-factor tests reveal the deficiency and the severity of the disease.
Severe cases are treated by infusing the clotting factor into a vein so the blood can clot properly. This therapy may be used during an active bleeding episode or employed regularly as a preventative measure. There are other therapies used to control bleeding and increase healing, such as new drugs or hormones and improved wound care.
At-home recommendations include:
- Regular exercise,
- Good dental hygiene,
- Avoiding certain pain and blood-thinning medications,
- Getting vaccinations,
- Using safety equipment for sports,
- Avoiding furniture with sharp corners,
- Obtaining a medical alert bracelet.
Helping you feel better,
