It is important for all to raise awareness of the rare group of people that suffer from bleeding disorders. These disorders include but are not limited to people that suffer from Hemophilia A & B types, Von Willebrand Disease one of the most common, and other rare bleeding disorders.
What is a bleeding disorder?
A bleeding disorder can cause abnormal bleeding both outside and inside the body. Some of the disorders can drastically increase the amount of blood leaving your body. Others cause bleeding to occur under the skin or in vital organs, such as the brain.
What causes bleeding disorders?
Bleeding disorders occur when the blood cannot clot properly. For blood to clot, your body needs blood proteins called “clotting factors” and blood cells called “platelets.” Normal blood platelets clump together to form a blood plug at the site of a damaged or injured blood vessel. The clotting factors then come together to form a fibrin clot. This keeps the platelets in place and prevents blood from flowing out of the blood vessel.
People with bleeding disorders have issues with the platelets and clotting factors in which they do not work the way they should. When your blood cannot clot, excessive bleeding can occur, and you can die of blood loss.
Symptoms of a Bleeding Disorder
Symptoms can vary. However, the most common are:
- Unexplained and easy bruising
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Excessive bleeding from minor cuts
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding into one’s joints
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should consult with a doctor right away. He or she will help you determine if you suffer from any blood disorders.
Bleeding Disorder Treatments
Treatments can vary, and many factors are considered when treating a blood disorder. Even though there are treatments, there are no cures for bleeding disorders.
Some treatments may include:
- Iron supplements – these will help replenish the amount of iron in your body. Low iron levels can cause weakness, feeling tired, and dizziness.
- Blood transfusions – Low blood levels can be replenished by a blood transfusion to replace lost blood. Sometimes plasma transfusions may be used.
- Other treatments – Some bleeding disorders may be treated with topical products like nasal sprays. Some like hemophilia can be treated with replacement therapy. This would put clotting factor concentrates into the bloodstream. They help control excessive bleeding.
Show your support during the month of March. Wear RED and get the conversation started in your local community and online. Get involved in the National Hemophilia Foundation “Red Tie Campaign.”
Blood disorders are very serious, and the people who suffer need your support. Spread the word and show your support!
