Hemophilia support for members

Hemophilia symptoms are often noticed during the first few years of a child’s life. Symptoms in infants include:

• Bleeding or bruising after a shot
• Unusually long bleeding after a newborn screening test or circumcision
• Bleeding in the scalp or head after a difficult or device-assisted delivery

Hemophilia symptoms in adults depend on the disease’s severity. Symptoms may include:

If you or your child’s doctor suspects hemophilia, they’ll take a sample of blood to see if it clots properly. If it doesn’t, they’ll use a clotting factor test (also called a factor assay) to see if hemophilia is the cause. The test can tell your doctor what type of hemophilia you have and how severe it may be.

Most people with hemophilia can receive factor treatment, where active clotting factor is infused into the blood. Infusions might be made regularly to help prevent bleeding episodes. Or they might only be needed after an injury, before surgery or before dental work. Your doctor will talk with you about which approach may be right for you or your child.

For some people with mild hemophilia, minor cuts and scrapes can be treated with standard first aid. And minor injuries to the body or joints can be treated with the RICE method:

• Rest: Take time to rest and allow the injured area to heal.
• Ice: Treat injuries with an ice pack or cold compress to reduce pain and swelling.
• Compression: Place an adhesive bandage on the wound or wrap an elastic bandage around the area.
• Elevation: Elevate the injured area to help reduce swelling.

Your doctor may also suggest physical therapy to help get your joints and muscles back in shape after an accident, surgery or bleed. You’ll work with a specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan. These plans include exercises designed to target your areas of concern, help you move more comfortably and build your confidence.

You can take steps at home to prevent bleeding episodes and improve your health:

• Maintain a healthy weight – Extra weight can put additional stress on joints. Make sure to keep your weight within the range recommended by your doctor.
• Get regular exercise – Choose low-contact activities that will keep your muscles and joints in good shape, such as swimming, yoga or walking. Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.
• Avoid certain pain medications – Aspirin and similar nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), can make it harder for your blood to clot. Other over-the-counter medicines and supplements may also contain similar ingredients. Always talk with your doctor before taking anything new.
• Prevent injuries and accidents around your home – Keep your living spaces well-lit and free of clutter. Make sure handrails are sturdy and secure. And train pets not to jump up when they greet you.