Does your child bleed often? It could be hemophilia

Injuries and bruises are a part of a kid's life, but if your child is facing a problem in clotting, a bleeding disorder could be at play.
Retinoblastoma in children
Keep an eye on excess bleeding. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Dr Jagdish Kathwate Updated: 23 Oct 2023, 13:14 pm IST
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Is your child bleeding easily? It is likely that the child may be suffering from a bleeding disorder. Yes, you have heard us here! Read on to know more about this, and seek prompt medical attention for your child.

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder in children. It can raise the child’s risk of bleeding very often. Those with hemophilia can’t stop bleeding as there are not enough clotting factors in their blood. Clotting factors are required for blood to clot and even prevent excessive bleeding. Are you aware? There are three types of hemophilia that are A which is seen owing to the absence of blood clotting factor VIII.

Hemophilia B occurs due to the deficiency of factor IX (Christmas disease or factor IX deficiency). Hemophilia C is often seen because of the lack of clotting factor XI.

What is the cause of a bleeding disorder or hemophilia?

A bleeding disorder is seen due to the deficiency or defect associated with blood clotting or platelets found in the blood. It can be an inherited condition or one can get it later in life owing to some other medical problems.

blood
Know the causes of hemophilia. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

What are the symptoms of hemophilia?

The child will get easily bruised even because of the small accidents, and this can steal your peace of mind as parents. The child may frequently bleed from the nose, mouth, and gums even due to a minor injury. You will also be shocked to know that there can be bleeding in the joints causing arthritis or any other deformity.

There can be muscle bleeding leading to swelling and unbearable pain. If your child bleeds frequently, you will have to consult the doctor on an immediate basis. Not doing so can land your child in trouble. You will have to monitor your child’s health and seek prompt medical attention.

bleeding
Give your child the right short-term or long-term treatment. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

How to treat a bleeding disorder?

The line of treatment will depend on the type of bleeding disorder, the age of the child, how severe is the condition, and also depending on his/her overall health. The child may need surgery along with physiotherapy or blood transfusions.

Your child will be fully evaluated and then only will be suggested with a plan of action. You need to speak to the doctor and clear all your doubts regarding this condition. Not treating the child at the right time can lead to severe complications, such as long-term joint problems, joint lining inflammation, bleeding of muscle and joints.

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About the Author

Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune ...Read More

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