Have you ever heard of hemophilia? What about von Willebrand disease? These are just two examples of bleeding disorders, a group of conditions that affect how blood clots. March is Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month (BDAM), a time to learn more about these conditions and the people who live with them.
What are bleeding disorders?
Blood is amazing! It’s like a liquid highway inside our body, carrying oxygen, nutrients, and waste products to and from cells. But sometimes, things go wrong. When we get a cut, our blood forms a clot to stop the bleeding. This clotting process involves particular proteins called clotting factors.
In people with bleeding disorders, something disrupts this process. They either have insufficient or defective clotting factors, making it harder for their blood to clot properly. This can lead to:
- Easy bruising
- Excessive bleeding after injuries, even minor ones
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Bleeding in the joints, which can be very painful
- Internal bleeding, which can be serious
Types of Bleeding Disorders
There are many different types of bleeding disorders, but some of the most common are:
- Hemophilia: This is a group of disorders where the body doesn’t have enough of a specific clotting factor. The most common types are hemophilia A and hemophilia B.
- von Willebrand disease (VWD): This is the most common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting both men and women. People with VWD either do not have enough or have a defective version of a protein called von Willebrand factor (vWF), which helps blood clots.
- Platelet disorders: These disorders affect the platelets, which are tiny cells in the blood that help form clots. People with platelet disorders may have fewer than normal platelets or platelets that don’t work properly.
Living with a Bleeding Disorders
People with bleeding disorders face unique challenges. They may need to take medications to help their blood clot properly, avoid activities that could lead to injuries, and be extra careful when undergoing surgery or dental work. However, with proper treatment and management, most people with bleeding disorders can live full and active lives.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved with BDAM and raise awareness about bleeding disorders:
- Learn more: Visit the websites of organizations like the National Hemophilia Foundation or the Hemophilia Federation of America to learn more about bleeding disorders and how they affect people’s lives.
- Spread the word: Talk to your friends and family about bleeding disorders. Share information on social media using the hashtag #BleedingDisordersAwarenessMonth.
- Support organizations: Donate to organizations that support research and advocacy for bleeding disorders.
- Volunteer your time: Many organizations need volunteers to help with events and other activities.
Together, we can raise awareness about bleeding disorders and help ensure that everyone with a bleeding disorder has access to the care and support they need.
Beyond the Blog
Here are some additional things you can do to learn more and get involved:
- Attend a local BDAM event: Many communities hold events during March to raise awareness about bleeding disorders. Check with local hospitals, community centers, or patient advocacy groups for information.
- Watch an educational documentary about bleeding disorders: There are several films that tell the stories of people living with bleeding disorders.
- Connect with others: There are online communities where people with bleeding disorders and their families can connect and share experiences.
By taking these steps, you can help make a difference in the lives of people with bleeding disorders. If you have any questions about the services Westside Terrace can provide you or your loved one, contact us online or at 334-794-1000.
