Written By: Satata Karmakar | Updated : May 19, 2024 3:03 PM IST
Image credits by: 7 Lesser-Known Symptoms of Hemophilia: Blood In Stool And Other Warning Signs To Look Out For
Haemophilia, a genetic ailment causing trouble for the blood in clotting correctly, is relatively rare. Despite its low occurrence, there are multiple facets about this disorder that are often overlooked and deserve our attention.
Predominantly a hereditary disease, haemophilia primarily strikes males. It is the outcome of clotting factor deficiency, particularly Factor VIII (Haemophilia A) or Factor IX (Haemophilia B). The short supply of these factors causes bleeding for an extended period and hurdles in forming clots, leading to severe consequences if left untreated. In an exclusive interaction with TheHealthSite.com, Dr. Rajesh Jaria, Consultant Internal Medicine, P.D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Khar, shared the various unknown facts about this condition and its management strategies.
Haemophilia is a genetic disorder, passed via an X-linked recessive pattern, resulting in the disorder primarily affecting males and making females carriers. Two main types of haemophilia:
The root cause is identified as a mutation in one of the genes providing instructions for making clotting factors. The disorder results in a deranged ability of blood to clot, causing an easy bruising and excessive bleeding. The latter can either occur spontaneously or after an injury. Additionally when it occurs it will be a prolonged bleeding from cuts or injuries, nosebleeds, blood in the urine or stool, and joint pain or swelling from bleeding into a joint.
Here are some of the most uncommon signs and symptoms of haemophilia:
Spotting blood in one's stool doesn't commonly come to mind when thinking about hemophilia.
Hemophiliacs might incessantly endure pain and swelling in joints, typically noticeable in load-bearing joints, like knees, elbows, and ankles.
Occasional nosebleeds are ordinary and inconsequential. But, hemophiliacs often undergo extended and repetitive nosebleeds due to defective blood clotting.
Hematuria, i.e., blood-tinged urine, is another hemophilia symptom that should be taken seriously.
Hemophiliacs often experience persistent sluggishness, a shared yet neglected symptom. Fatigue can potentially result from anemia due to chronic blood loss or other interconnected ailments.
While easy bruising is common with hemophilia, don't dismiss bruises that pop up on unusual or non-traumatic body parts. Unexplained bruises on the tummy, back, or thighs might be noting hidden internal bleeding and require immediate medical intervention.
Frequent headaches and alteration in vision due to bleeding within the brain or eyes can be a part of the hemophiliacs' life.
Treatment for haemophilia typically involves replacement of missing clotting factor through injections on a need basis for bleeding episodes or as a preventative measure (eg: pre-surgery). In severe cases, patients require regular infusions of clotting factor to prevent bleeding episodes. Newer therapies now available are
Desmopressin in some forms of mild haemophilia, can stimulate the body to release more clotting factor.
Haemophiliacs need to take care of a few things such as
There is no specific diet regimen for haemophilia, but it is important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet to support overall health and well-being. This includes eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It may also be beneficial to incorporate foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy green vegetables, which can help promote blood clotting.
Genetic counselling is recommended in individuals with a family history of haemophilia - to determine the risk of passing the disorder on to future generations. Support groups and resources are available, for education, advocacy, and emotional support.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
