World Hemophilia Day: What is Hemophilia, and what are its causes and symptoms?

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Every year, April 17 is observed as World Hemophilia Day to raise awareness about it and other bleeding disorders. The day acts as a stage for people to learn more about Hemophilia and related disorders, connect with patients, and share personal experiences. The day was observed in 1989 to raise awareness for improved treatment and accessible healthcare facilities for Hemophilia patients.

April 17 was chosen as World Hemophilia Day, for it coincides with the birthday of Frank Schnabel, the founder of the World Federation of Hemophilia.

What is Hemophilia?

Hemophilia is a rare blood disorder that is generally inherited from one or both parents. It is a medical condition in which the ability of blood to clot gets reduced causing severe bleeding even from the slightest injuries. The condition is typically caused by a lack of platelets and clotting factors.

Clotting factors are proteins that help our blood to clot and stop excessive bleeding after injuries. People suffering from the blood disorder experience non-stop bleeding due to several factors. Patients also sometimes experience internal bleeding, bleeding from joints, nose, etc.

Causes of Hemophilia

Hemophilia is typically an inherited blood disorder. Individuals suffering from rare blood disorders lack clotting proteins which help to stop bleeding after injuries. Hemophilia patients often experience severe bleeding and are more vulnerable to internal bleeding. Excessive bleeding can become fatal for patients.

Symptoms of Hemophilia

• Unusual bleeding after taking injections or vaccination
• The presence of blood in urine and stool without some underlying cause
• Experiencing pain and swelling in joints
• Unusual bleeding from the nose, which is hard to stop
• Excessive bleeding from the slightest injuries and cuts
• Excessive bleeding from gums and mouth that are hard to stop
• Excessive lethargic feeling
• Prolonged headaches may sometimes take place due to the Blood disorder
• Internal bleeding in various parts of the body
• Non-stop flow of blood after any surgery
• Repeated vomiting without any underlying cause

Theme

This year, the theme of World Hemophilia Day is “Equitable access for all: recognising all bleeding disorders”.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow