Comprehensive Health Education Services, LLC

Bleeding Disorders

There are a number of conditions associated with the body’s ability to control and/or stop bleeding. Depending upon which protein is deficient in one’s blood determines which bleeding disorder they have. The most common bleeding disorders are vonWillebrand Disease (deficiency or ineffective vonWillebrand factor), Hemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency), and Hemophilia B (Factor IX) deficiency. Within each bleeding disorder, there may be different types such as in VonWillebrand Disease) and/or levels of severity from mild to moderate to severe. vonWillebrand Disease is the most common of all clotting deficiencies affecting approximately 1 in every 100 individuals. It is estimated that Hemophilia A and Hemophilia B affect approximately 17,000-20,000 individuals in the US, most being male. In 70% of all hemophilia cases, it is inherited as an x-link chromosomal disorder passed from mother to son. Although hemophilia typically affects males, women can indeed have hemophilia or similar factor deficiencies.

Individuals with a bleeding disorder do not bleed more; their bleeding time is prolonged and often requires an intravenous infusion of the factor that is deficient in their body. In the US, bleeding is controlled with prophylactic treatment meaning regular infusions two to three times per week to prevent bleeding starting as young as the age of eighteen months to two years of age. Prophylactic treatment for young children often means the placement of a port/catheter type device until veins are well developed. Although considered a life threatening, chronic condition, prophylactic treatment has enhanced the quality of life for individuals with hemophilia. Safer more effective factor products reduce the amount of damage caused by prolonged bleeding into joints and muscles; prolonging the lives of individuals affected by a bleeding disorder.

For individuals with vonWillebrand Disease, mucosal bleeding such as nosebleeds are common. Milder forms of vonWillebrand Disease are treated with nasal sprays to stop bleeding. Individuals with more severe types of vonWillebrand Disease experience prolonged bleeding and damage similar to individuals with hemophilia.

*Comprehensive Health Education Services, LLC does not prescribe medications, nor does it provide medical advice for any individuals seeking treatment options. Please consult your physician to determine the best options for your care.