Hemophilia
Overview
Causes
A faulty gene on a certain DNA strand causes hemophilia. Females carry 2 copies of the strand. If one is faulty, the other one takes over. The faulty gene can pass to their children. If so, the female child will carry the gene. If it passes to the male, they will get the disease because they carry one copy of the strand.
It is possible for a female to get the disease. They would have to get the faulty gene from both parents.
Genetic Outcome Possibilities |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Symptoms differ based on severity. Bleeding is the main issue. It is often related to an injury or surgery.
Common problems are:
- Easy bruising
- Repeated nosebleeds
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the stool
- Heavy bleeding after minor cuts or bumps
- Bleeding after dental work or surgery
- Heavy periods in women
Treatments
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to help the blood clot properly. Choices are:
- Blood factor injections to replace the factor that is missing
- Medicine to cause blood factor in the blood vessels to release
- Lifestyle changes to lower the risk of bleeding, such as taking steps to avoid injury
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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