Hemophilia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the way blood clots, which poses risks such as excessive bleeding due to injuries or surgeries and even spontaneous bleeding. So let’s take a look at 5 essential facts about hemophilia.
There are many proteins present in our blood, including clotting factors that work to keep bleeding under control. There are 13 clotting factors in the body and they all take part in the healthy clotting of blood.
In a sense, hemophilia develops due to a deficiency of clotting factors, most commonly factors VIII or IX. However, the risks and complications associated with hemophilia as well as the severity of its symptoms depend entirely on the how low one’s clotting factor levels are.
#1 There are two types of Hemophilia
There are two primary types of Hemophilia: Hemophilia A and Hemophilia B. Hemophilia A is caused by a factor VIII deficiency, and Hemophilia B, also known as Christmas disease, occurs due to a factor IX deficiency.
#2 A genetic mutation can cause hemophilia
Up to 70% of those with hemophilia develop the disease due to a family history. However, hemophilia occurs in those who do not have a family history of hemophilia due to mutated protein-coding genes.
#3 Hemophilia A is more common than B
About 80% of hemophilia cases are Hemophilia A. There are approximately 20,000 people living with hemophilia in the United States and nearly 500,000 individuals with the disease globally.
#4 Hemophilia is incurable
While hemobilia does not have a cure, many effective treatment options are available. The most effective treatment involves the lifelong infusion of clotting concentrates. Desmopressin is usually used to treat Hemophilia A, whereas clotting factor transfusions are common in treating Hemophilia B.
#5 Hemophilia can be deadly
Hemophilia puts people at an increased risk for many health complications, from hepatitis to internal bleeding. Hemophilia can cause bleeding in the joints, which can then result in chronic pain or a chronic disease. Hemophilia can also cause bleeding in the brain, which can sometimes even lead to seizures and paralysis. If excessive bleeding and internal bleeding can’t be stopped or prevented, this can also result in death.
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Posted on May 5, 2023