Hemophilia

Overview

Hemophilia is a rare condition that affects the way blood clots. People with hemophilia may bleed more easily or for a longer time after getting hurt or having surgery. They may also experience unexpected bleeding into their joints and muscles. It’s very important to diagnose hemophilia early and get the right treatment so that children with the condition can stay healthy and active.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of hemophilia in children include:

Prolonged Bleeding: Extended bleeding after cuts, dental procedures, or surgeries.
Frequent Nosebleeds: Nosebleeds that are difficult to stop.
Easy Bruising: Large or deep bruises from minor injuries.
Joint Bleeding: Swelling, pain, or tightness in the joints, especially the knees, elbows, and ankles, due to internal bleeding.
Muscle Bleeding: Swelling and pain in muscles from internal bleeding, often after an injury or without any apparent cause.
Blood in Urine or Stool: Indications of internal bleeding in the digestive or urinary system.

Causes

Hemophilia is a condition that occurs when there are problems with the genes that help our blood to clot. There are two main types of hemophilia:

Hemophilia A: This type is caused by a lack of a protein called factor VIII, which helps our blood to clot.
Hemophilia B: This type is caused by a lack of a protein called factor IX, which also helps our blood to clot.

Most people with hemophilia inherit it from their parents, but it can also occur spontaneously, without a family history.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing hemophilia in children involves:

Family History Review: Discussing any family history of bleeding disorders.
Blood Tests: Measuring the level of clotting factors in the blood to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and severity of hemophilia.
Genetic Testing: Identifying the specific gene mutation responsible for hemophilia can help guide treatment and family planning.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for hemophilia, effective treatments are available to manage the condition and prevent complications:

Clotting Factor Replacement Therapy: Regular infusions of clotting factors to prevent or control bleeding episodes.
Desmopressin (DDAVP): A medication used to increase the levels of clotting factor VIII in mild cases of hemophilia A.
Antifibrinolytic Medications: These drugs help prevent the breakdown of clots and are often used during dental work or minor surgery.
Physical Therapy: Helps manage joint damage and improve mobility.
Comprehensive Care Plans: A personalized care plan that includes regular check-ups, emergency treatment protocols, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent injuries and manage bleeding episodes.

Why Choose Us

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we provide specialized care for children with hemophilia, offering:

Experienced Hematology Team: Our pediatric hematologists are experts in diagnosing and managing hemophilia, ensuring your child receives the best possible care.
Advanced Treatment Options: We offer the latest therapies, including clotting factor replacement and innovative treatments to manage and prevent bleeding episodes.
Comprehensive Support: Our multidisciplinary team works closely with families to create personalized care plans that address all aspects of your child’s health and well-being.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our hospital is equipped with the latest technology and resources to provide top-notch care for children with hemophilia.
Patient Education and Support: We provide education and resources to help families understand hemophilia and manage the condition effectively at home.

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with hemophilia. Here’s why families trust us:

“Our son was diagnosed with hemophilia as a toddler, and we were overwhelmed. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital has been amazing—they provided us with the knowledge, support, and care we needed to manage his condition. Today, our son is thriving, and we feel confident in his care plan.”
Anneparent of a child with hemophilia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

While contact sports should be avoided, many other activities, such as swimming, walking, and biking, are safe and beneficial for children with hemophilia. Always consult with your child’s healthcare provider before starting any new activity.

Regular clotting factor infusions, avoiding high-risk activities, and creating a safe home environment can help prevent bleeding episodes. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the best practices for your child.

There is currently no cure for hemophilia, but with proper treatment and management, children with hemophilia can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Contact Us

If your child has been diagnosed with hemophilia, our team at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is here to provide the expert care and support your family needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our aplastic anemia treatment program.