Can Hemophilia Be Cured?

Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder that is inherited, or passed down from parent to child. It is characterized by a deficiency of certain proteins known as “clotting factors,” leading to blood that doesn’t clot well and excessive or spontaneous bleeding. Hemophilia may develop after birth in extremely rare cases.

A cure for hemophilia has not yet been discovered. However, there are several treatment options available to help individuals with this condition manage their symptoms, prevent complications and live a normal life.

Each patient’s best course of treatment will depend on what type of hemophilia is present:

• Hemophilia A – The most common type, hemophilia A can be treated with desmopressin—a prescription hormone that is injected into a vein to help activate blood clotting factors.
• Hemophilia B – Also known as Christmas disease, hemophilia B can be treated by infusing blood with clotting factors from a donor or in synthetic form.
• Hemophilia C – The rarest type, hemophilia C can be treated through plasma infusions that work to stop excessive bleeding following trauma or injury.

Self-Care Measures for Hemophilia

People with hemophilia can also take self-care measures to help manage their symptoms, prevent bleeding episodes and improve overall health. Many physicians recommend:

• Regular low-impact exercise to improve muscle strength and joint health (high-impact activities and contact sports should be avoided)
• Maintaining good dental hygiene habits to promote gum health and prevent the need for tooth extraction
• Avoiding furniture or home accessories that have sharp edges or are a trip hazard
• Staying clear of certain medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and blood thinning-medications

What Are the Symptoms of Hemophilia?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common signs and symptoms of hemophilia include:

• Frequent and difficult-to-stop nosebleeds
• Bleeding after having vaccinations or immunizations
• Bleeding into the joints (often the elbows, knees and ankles) that can cause swelling and pain
• Easy bruising and bruises that are large or unexplained
• Frequent hematomas, or a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel
• Blood in urine or stools
• Frequent bleeding in the mouth and gums, especially after losing a tooth

The frequency and severity of hemophilia symptoms will depend on the amount of clotting factors in the blood. The lower the level of clotting factors, the more significant symptoms will likely be.

Hemophilia Treatment at Tufts Medical Center Community Care

For hemophilia treatment and specialized hematology services, residents of north suburban Boston can turn to Tufts Medical Center Community Care. Our multispecialty medical group features more than 120 clinicians, including primary care physicians and hematologists who assist patients with all types of hemophilia.

Receive the specialized hemophilia treatment you need at Tufts Medical Center Community Care. With multiple easily accessible locations and better-than-average appointment availability, we make it simple to find the right doctor for your needs. Plus, our practice is in-network with most health insurance providers, including Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare. Contact our friendly professionals today to schedule an appointment.