Effective Strategies for Managing Hemophilia and Its Symptoms

Hemophilia is a rare inherited bleeding disorder where blood does not clot properly, leading to prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgery. Even minor injuries can result in bleeding inside joints, muscles, or vital organs. Proper management is essential to reduce risks and improve quality of life. This article explores key approaches to controlling hemophilia:

Treatment Options

Recombinant Factor VIII (8) Therapy
This is the primary treatment where missing clotting factor VIII is replaced using genetically engineered products, ensuring normal blood clotting. Since 1992, recombinant products have replaced plasma-derived options.

Advances in Treatment

Hemlibra®
This medication works by mimicking the role of clotting factor VIII, enhancing blood clotting even if the factor is deficient. It is administered via injections, providing a novel management approach.

Kovaltry®
Kovaltry helps replenish missing clotting factors in both children and adults, reducing bleeding episodes. It is especially useful post-surgery or during frequent bleeding events.

Nutritional Guidance

Hemophilia patients should prioritize nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Dark leafy greens—such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and bok choy—along with fruits like strawberries, pears, and apples, provide essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporate calcium-rich sources like fortified cereals, lean meats, poultry, raisins, and apricots into your diet.

Foods to Avoid

To minimize bleeding risks, steer clear of oily, fried foods, junk foods, and high-sugar items like candies, baked goods, and sugary drinks. Fish oil and high doses of vitamin E supplements can interfere with clotting and should be avoided. Additionally, herbs such as ginger, ginseng, garlic, ginkgo biloba, and feverfew can worsen bleeding and should be used cautiously or avoided.

Managing Daily Life

Hemophilia can be managed effectively by engaging in low-impact, non-contact activities while using protective gear. Regular dental hygiene and avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and blood thinners can help prevent bleeding complications. Routine health screenings for HIV and hepatitis are recommended, and consulting healthcare professionals for personalized management strategies is essential.