7 Symptoms Of Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a group of disorders that affect the blood. People with these conditions don't have enough oxygen in their blood because their bodies are unable to produce a sufficient amount of the hemoglobin that red blood cells require. Depending on which genes have a mutation, Thalassemia are classified as alpha thalassemia or beta thalassemia.This is a genetic condition. People have this problem if they inherit one or more faulty genes from their parents. It is known to run in families with Mediterranean, African, Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds.Some people receive affected genes from one parent, but they don't get them from the other parent, so their symptoms are quite mild. This is known as thalassemia minor. Some people might not even be aware that they have thalassemia minor.In thalassemia major, a patient receives affected genes from both parents, and the disease is more severe. The alpha version is called hemoglobin H disease, and the beta version is Cooley's anemia. Beta thalassemia can also manifest as a moderate form called thalassemia intermedia.These disorders can manifest with an array of symptoms, and most cases are diagnosed in childhood. However, those with minor cases may not have any cause to consider the possibility of this condition until they develop anemia problems.Treatment can help alleviate some symptoms. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor if you or a family member are experiencing signs of this condition. The following guide can help you know what symptoms to be on the lookout for.

1. Anemia

Because this group of disorders affects red blood cells, one of its most common symptoms is anemia. When there aren't enough well-functioning red blood cells in the blood, the blood can't transport a sufficient amount of oxygen to all parts of the body. This condition is known as anemia.In fact, many of the symptoms associated with thalassemia can be tied back to the anemia caused by the disorder. Therefore, treatments for anemia are one of the main ways that doctors help patients with these blood disorders. When the anemia is lessened, the manifestation of other symptoms is often lessened as well.There are a few different treatments available to help relieve a person's anemia. Taking folic acid supplements is one option. This is usually best for those who experience moderate symptoms of the disease. If the disease is more severe, blood transfusions may be recommended. This is a process that must be repeated regularly, and additional precautions, such as vaccines to prevent hepatitis will be recommended.Even people with minor versions of this blood disorder may experience a degree of anemia. The more severe the anemia is, the more likely it is that related symptoms will also have a profound effect on the patient's life.Next