Hemophilia is a blood disorder. The blood does not clot normally causing easy bleeding. Clotting factors present in normal blood are either missing or in low levels. Hemophilia usually is inherited and afflicts males. It is extremely rare for a female to be born with hemophilia.
Causes
A defective gene that attaches to the male X chromosome causes hemophilia. The mother carries the defective chromosome and passes the trait in her egg.
Symptoms
Excessive external or internal bleeding is a symptom of hemophilia. Internal bleeding of the joints, causing red, hot swollen joints occurs in hemophiliacs. Bleeding in the brain causes symptoms ranging from headaches to convulsions.
Diagnosis
Someone who is experiencing heavy bleeding will undergo a physical exam. The physician will test the blood to determine how much clotting factor is present.
Treatment
According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, treatment depends on the severity of the hemophilia. Mild hemophilia may only require treatment to stop bleeding after an injury. Moderate to severe hemophilia may require use of man-made or human clotting factors or drugs that the patient can receive through an intravenous drip.
Care Centers
The federal government funds 100 hemophiliac care centers throughout the United States. The centers provide treatment, support and education for hemophiliacs.
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