CONDITIONS CAUSING ABNORMAL OR PROLONGED BLEEDING
Bleeding Disorders
A group of conditions in which the blood does not clot properly, causing easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, joint bleeding and other features. Managed with specialist haematology care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What are Bleeding Disorders
Bleeding disorders are a group of conditions in which the blood does not clot properly, leading to abnormal or prolonged bleeding. The clotting process requires platelets, clotting factors (proteins) and the blood vessels themselves to work together; deficiency or dysfunction of any component can cause bleeding. Common bleeding disorders include haemophilia A and B (inherited deficiencies of clotting factors), von Willebrand disease (the most common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting clotting and platelet function), platelet function disorders, liver disease affecting clotting factor production, and acquired conditions such as vitamin K deficiency and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Typical features include easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts or after dental work, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual periods, joint bleeding in haemophilia, and excessive bleeding after surgery or childbirth. Diagnosis involves blood tests including specific clotting factor assays. Treatment depends on the specific disorder and may include replacement therapy, specific medical therapy, treatment of acute bleeding and preventive measures. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with haematology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Haemophilia A and B — inherited factor deficiencies
- Von Willebrand disease — most common inherited bleeding disorder
- Platelet function disorders
- Liver disease affecting clotting factor production
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Anticoagulant medications
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation in severe acute illness
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Coagulation studies (PT, APTT), platelet count and function, specific factor assays
Inherited (haemophilia, von Willebrand) · Acquired (liver disease, vitamin K deficiency)
Specific therapy depending on the disorder
Haematology co-management is essential
Avoidance of blood-thinning medications and certain activities
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with haematology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Specialist Care with Targeted Therapy
The most effective approach is identifying the specific bleeding disorder through detailed clotting tests, followed by specialist haematology co-management with targeted therapy — factor replacement, specific medical therapy, treatment of acute bleeding and preventive care including emergency planning.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews bleeding history, family history and medications, examines the patient and arranges coagulation studies and specific factor assays.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with haematology based on the identified disorder.
- 3
Medical Management
Specific therapy for the disorder, treatment of acute bleeding episodes, preventive measures and emergency planning.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with haematology including regular review of bleeding episodes, factor levels and quality of life.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Specific Factor Replacement Therapy (Referral for haematology)
Patients with haemophilia and other factor deficiencies are treated with replacement of the missing clotting factor, given regularly or on demand depending on severity.
Specific Medical Therapy for Von Willebrand Disease
Specific medical therapy improves von Willebrand factor levels and helps control bleeding in selected patients.
Treatment of Acute Bleeding Episodes
Bleeding episodes are treated promptly with factor replacement, specific medical therapy, local measures and supportive care.
Treatment of Underlying Causes
Acquired bleeding disorders due to liver disease, vitamin K deficiency or medications are treated by addressing the underlying cause.
Emergency Planning and Patient Education
Patients and families are given detailed emergency plans, medical alert identification and education on recognising and treating bleeding episodes.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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