Monday, June 21, 2010

What is a Blood Disorder?

The term ‘blood disorder’ refers to problems with components of the blood or blood vessels and covers a wide variety of complications including hemophilia and anemia. Most blood disorders require lifelong treatment without which serious problems could arise. With treatment, most patients can expect to live hale and hearty lives albeit punctuated with frequent visits to the doctor. Listed below are 3 common forms of blood disorders.

Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a genetically inherited blood disorder that affects men and causes them to bleed uncontrollably. It is caused by a lack of clotting agents in the blood and can be fatal if left untreated. Thankfully modern technology has allowed for the use of genetically engineered clotting agents that promote the blood clotting process and suppress excess bleeding. This allows hemophiliacs to enjoy healthy and happy lives without any worries.

Anemia

Anemia is an extremely common blood disorder that occurs when the oxygen carrying capacity of the red blood cells is compromised by a low amount of hemoglobin, an important component of red blood cells that is responsible for the transfer of oxygen to cells. Anemia prevents adequate oxygen from reaching the body’s cells and this leads to weariness and exhaustion as the cells suffer from oxygen starvation. Anemia is best treated by the consumption of iron-rich foods including green leafy vegetables as well as the use of iron supplements. Though anemia is not predominantly life-threatening it does compromise one’s quality of life and so stringent measures have to be taken to control it.

Sickle Cell Anemia

There are many different forms of anemia and sickle-cell anemia is one such example. In this disorder the red blood cells are shaped like sickles and hence less efficient at carrying oxygen to the cells. This results in weariness, shortness of breath, headaches and even chest pains. Unfortunately sickle-cell anemia does not have a complete cure; rather doctors focus on treating any painful symptoms associated with the disorder. Patients who suffer from sickle-cell anemia need regular medical care so that they can continue to live healthy lives.

Blood disorders range from treatable to extremely dangerous and each and every one should be given devoted medical attention to avoid complications. Despite this, one can easily overcome the difficulties by being informed and prepared.

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