Understanding the symptoms and complications linked to hemophilia
Hemophilia is a rare disorder that disrupts blood clotting in a person’s body. In most cases, it is found to be genetic. While hemophilia can vary in severity from person to person, it can further cause many complications, some of which can be life-threatening. Therefore, if someone notices any signs of hemophilia, they should consult a healthcare professional urgently. Here are a few common signs of hemophilia disorder to look out for.
Excessive bleeding from wounds and cuts
When someone has hemophilia, their body’s ability to clot blood is reduced. Consequently, if that person gets wounded, they may suffer excessive and uncontrolled bleeding through that wound. Hemophilia also causes complications related to surgery, as the person might suffer excessive bleeding through the surgical cuts on their body.
Blood in urine
Another warning sign of hemophilia is hematuria, which means blood in urine. It can result from internal bleeding that is caused by hemophilia. If an individual notices this symptom, they must consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Blood in stool
Due to internal bleeding caused by hemophilia, one may also notice blood in stool. While other health conditions share this symptom, it must not be ignored regardless and needs urgent attention from a health expert.
Unexplained nosebleeds
Hemophilia sometimes also causes frequent nosebleeds that are hard to control or stop. When nosebleeds begin suddenly and are persistent, it might be a sure sign of this condition.
Easy and deep bruising
Individuals with hemophilia can also get bruised easily. Even minor bumps can cause deep bruises. Sometimes, bruises can even occur without a cause.
Diseases and complications caused by hemophilia
When the body’s ability to clot blood is affected, several complications can arise. These can affect different body parts and organs. Some complications and diseases caused by hemophilia and their signs are mentioned below.
Arthritis
Internal bleeding caused by hemophilia can also affect different joints in the body. When there is bleeding in the joints, it can cause pain and swelling in that part. It can occur in the knees, elbows, and ankles and can trigger arthritis. Besides pain and swelling, the signs of this condition include a decreased range of motion of that joint.
Complications due to internal bleeding
As mentioned earlier, hemophilia also causes internal bleeding. This factor can trigger more complications, leading to swelling and numbness in different body parts.
Infections
Recurrent bleeding can increase the risk of infections, as open wounds and blood can introduce bacteria into the body. Signs of infection may include fever, chills, swelling, and pus at the bleeding site.
Cerebral hemorrhage
One of the most severe complications caused by hemophilia is cerebral hemorrhage. In cases of severe hemophilia, even a minor impact or trauma on the head can cause bleeding into the brain. The signs of this complication include headache, vomiting, dizziness, double vision, and weakness.
While hemophilia itself is a severe health condition, the complications associated with it can be even more daunting. The best way to deal with it is to seek healthcare intervention upon noticing initial warning signs and symptoms.