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What is Hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a rare and inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood doesn’t clot normally. People with hemophilia experience excessive, prolonged bleeding from even minor cuts, bruises, or injuries. It can also lead to spontaneous internal bleeding. There are two main types of hemophilia: hemophilia A and hemophilia B.
Symptoms of Hemophilia
Different people with hemophilia may experience different signs and symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Unusual or excessive bleeding from minor cuts, bruises, or injuries
- Bleeding in the mouth, joints, and other parts of the body
- Large, unexplained bruises
- Prolonged bleeding from surgery, circumcision, or dental procedures
Diagnosis of Hemophilia
A medical history, physical examination, and clotting tests are used to confirm the diagnosis of hemophilia. Blood tests show how long it takes for blood to clot and can detect the presence of clotting factors. Genetic tests can be used to determine the specific type of hemophilia.
Treatment of Hemophilia
Hemophilia is a lifelong condition, so treatment focuses on preventing or minimizing bleeding episodes and complications. Treatment can include:
- Replacement therapy. This involves giving a person with hemophilia infusions of the missing clotting factor. Infusions are usually given through a vein.
- Desmopressin. This medication helps the body increase its production of von Willebrand factor (vWF), which helps control bleeding.
- Antifibrinolytic agents. These medications help form clots by blocking the breakdown of existing clots.
- Pain medications. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help ease pain caused by bleeding episodes.
Prognosis of Hemophilia
The prognosis of hemophilia largely depends on how well it is managed. With careful monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and the right treatment, most people with hemophilia can live long, healthy, and active lives. Treatment can help reduce or even stop bleeding episodes and help keep complications at bay.
Health Concerns Related to Hemophilia
People with hemophilia are at risk of certain health complications. Common complications include:
- Joint damage caused by frequent bleeding episodes
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Infections caused by frequent blood transfusions
- Tendinitis due to frequent joint bleeds
- Liver and kidney problems
- Lung and airway complications
People with hemophilia should be monitored regularly for signs of these complications. With proper treatment and care, many of these complications can be prevented or managed.