
Tips to Manage Hemophilia
An inherited bleeding condition, wherein a person either has no or fewer levels of a particular protein, which contributes to the clotting factors, is called hemophilia. In this disorder, the blood is unable to clot properly. As a result of this, a person might undergo heavy bleeding. Though it is a rare disorder, it isn’t easy to manage. So, here, we’ll list out the types of hemophilia and management tips to better deal with it.
Types
Hemophilia A: The type of hemophilia is particularly more prevalent in people. It develops as a result of insufficiency in a protein known as factor VIII. Following a popular study, approximately 8 out of ten people who suffer from hemophilia have this deficiency.
Hemophilia B: It is often referred to as a Christmas disease and usually occurs because of an insufficiency of a protein known as factor IX.
Hemophilia C: It is a mild type of hemophilia, which occurs as a result of an insufficiency of a protein known as factor XI. Those who have this rare hemophilia do not experience any spontaneous bleeding. However, hemorrhaging might occur as a result of surgery or trauma.
Management tips
Typically, there’s no cure for hemophilia. However, there are a bunch of tips that one can use to better manage the disease and prevent any episodes of bleeding.
Avoid a few types of medications: For hemophilia patients, it is important to refrain from a particular type of medication. This includes medicines that might cause thinning of the blood, like heparin and warfarin. In addition to these, a few other medications, like ibuprofen and aspirin, must also be avoided. If one needs a pain relief medication, they can opt for acetaminophen.
Exercise: When one exercises, their bone and muscle strength is improved. It also facilitates better weight management. However, those with hemophilia must strictly keep away from sports that have a risk of injury. One can rather opt for safer options such as cycling, walking, and swimming.
Practice oral hygiene: To avoid the need for dental work, one should take good care of their oral health, including gums and teeth. One can seek advice from a dentist to better take care of gums and teeth.
Get vaccinations and annual check-ups: One should annually visit a treatment center for a thorough hemophilia check-up. It is necessary to ensure that one is in good health. Furthermore, those suffering from hemophilia should also get tested for infections in the blood regularly. It is also safe to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.
More care needed for children
Children who suffer from hemophilia should be precautious and always wear elbow and knee pads when cycling. Safety helmets are also a good protective gear for the kids. Lastly, try to keep the home as child-friendly as possible.