What is thalassemia?

Thalassemia is a group of disorders that affect the body’s ability to produce normal hemoglobin. ( Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body; hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that actually carries the oxygen.)

Who is at risk for thalassemia?

Thalassemia’s are an inherited disorder, which means they are passed from a parent to their child. Inter family marriage for serval generations increases the chance of having thalassemia

Symptoms:

1. Fatigue.

2. Weakness

3. Shortness of Breath

4. Jaundice

5. Irritability

6. Deformities of the facial bones.

7. Slow growth

8. A swollen abdomen

9. Dark urine

Treatment:

Blood transfusions:
Frequent blood transfusions. More-severe forms of thalassemia often require frequent blood transfusions, possibly every few weeks.

Iron chelation therapy:
Over time, blood transfusions cause a buildup of iron in your blood, which can damage your heart, liver and other organs. Medications are given that rid your body of extra iron.

Managing thalassemia:
You can help manage your thalassemia by following your treatment plan and adopting healthy-living habits. The following tips will help:

1. Avoiding iron

Avoid excess iron. Unless your doctor recommends it, don’t take vitamins or other supplements that contain iron.

2. Healthy diet

Eat a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet that contains plenty of nutritious foods can help you feel better and boost your energy.

3. Strict check on personal hygiene

Avoid infections. Protect yourself from infections with frequent hand-washing and by avoiding sick people.