Overview of Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a blood disorder that affects the body's ability to clot blood properly. This condition is caused by a deficiency in blood coagulation factors which leads to prolonged bleeding even from minor injuries. Individuals with hemophilia are often referred to as hemophiliacs and may experience excessive bleeding, both externally and internally. There are two main types of hemophilia disease: Hemophilia A and Hemophilia B.

Types of Hemophilia

Hemophilia A: Caused by a Factor VIII deficiency and more common than Hemophilia B.

Hemophilia B: Caused by a Factor IX deficiency and also called Christmas disease.

Acquired Hemophilia – It is rare but develops later in life due to autoimmune disorders.

Mild, Moderate & Severe Hemophilia: Based on the level of clotting factors in the blood.

symptoms of Hemophilia

Excessive bleeding from cuts, injuries or after surgery.

Unexplained bruises that appear easily.

Frequent nosebleeds without any apparent reason.

Joint pain and swelling due to internal bleeding.

Blood in urine or stool indicates internal bleeding.

Heavy bleeding after vaccinations or dental procedures.

Prolonged bleeding after minor wounds.

Brain hemorrhage risk in severe cases.

Causes of Hemophilia

• Genetic mutation: Passed from parents, mostly affecting males.
• X-chromosome-linked disorder: Females are usually carriers.
• Spontaneous mutation: This can occur even without a family history.
• Autoimmune conditions: In rare cases, acquired hemophilia develops.

Complications in Hemophilia

Severe joint damage from repeated internal bleeding.

Hemophilic arthropathy, which is a chronic joint disease due to blood accumulation.

Excessive bleeding after surgery or injury, which can be life-threatening.

Intracranial hemorrhage, leads to serious brain damage.

Anemia due to continuous blood loss.

Infections from frequent blood transfusions if not properly screened.

Risk Factors of Hemophilia

• Family history: The biggest risk factor.
• Male gender: Mostly affects males, females are usually carriers.
• Certain medications: Can increase bleeding risks in acquired hemophilia.
• Liver diseases: Affect blood clotting ability.

Preventions of Hemophilia

Prenatal genetic counseling, it helps in identifying risks before childbirth.

Avoid unnecessary injections to prevent internal bleeding.

Using protective gear to prevent injuries.

Regular checkups to monitor clotting factors.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to protect joints and avoid excessive bleeding.