Under normal circumstances, a wound bleeds for a while when one is injured, but tends to clot soon after that. Hemophilia is a rare disorder wherein the blood does not have adequate clotting factors or blood-clotting proteins. This affects its ability to clot and makes a wound bleed for longer than it would have normally done. This isn’t much of a problem for small cuts but severe cases of hemophilia can increase the risk of internal bleeding. This can be a life-threatening condition, which is why it is essential to know the symptoms and treatment of hemophilia.

The symptoms of hemophilia depend on the clotting factor level and indicate the type of treatment required. In cases where the clotting factor level is mildly lower than normal, the patient may bleed only after a trauma or surgery. In cases of severe deficiency, bleeding may occur spontaneously. Some of the other symptoms to watch out for include:

• Excessive bleeding after vaccinations
• Large, deep bruises
• Excessive bleeding after a cut, injury, dental work, or surgery
• Painful joints
• Tightness and swelling in the joints
• Bloody urine or stool
• Unexplained nosebleeds

In the case of infants, this condition can also cause unexplained irritability.

One of the most serious complications that can result from hemophilia is bleeding in the brain. In such cases being aware of the symptoms and treatment of hemophilia can make a difference between life and death. You should look out for the following symptoms:

• Prolonged, painful headaches
• Recurrent vomiting
• Lethargy
• Double vision
• Sudden clumsiness
• Seizures

The ideal treatment for a person depends on many factors including age of the patient, the severity of the symptoms and treatment of hemophilia preferences. The treatment options available include:

• Replacement therapy
  This type of treatment is administered in cases of severe hemophilia. The goal here is to increase the clotting-factor levels in the blood. It is not a cure but can help manage the condition. The replacement clotting-factor may be made from donated human blood or manufactured in a laboratory.
• Desmopressin
  This is a hormone that may be used in the form of a nasal spray or injection to treat mild forms of hemophilia. It stimulates the production of the clotting-factor.
• Medication
  Certain types of medication may be prescribed to keep clots from breaking down.
• Physical therapy
  If internal bleeding has damaged the joints, physical therapy may ease the symptoms. However, if the damage is severe, surgery may be needed.
• Fibrin sealants
  In the case of bleeding resulting from dental work, fibrin sealants can help. This is a topical medicine that promotes healing and clotting.

Though it is a rare condition, it is very important to know the symptoms and treatment of hemophilia so that dangerous incidents can be avoided. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you find the best form of treatment and keep the condition from causing life-threatening complications. You should also protect yourself from cuts and injuries and speak to your doctor about taking medication before undergoing dental work or surgical procedures.