BETA THALASSEMIA

BETA THALASSEMIA

Beta thalassemia is a blood disorder that is usually genetic. Hence, it is inherited from both parents or one through their genetics. When a person has beta thalassemia, their body forms fewer hemoglobin than usual.

Hence, beta thalassemia may cause severe or mild anemia or having insufficient hemoglobin or red blood cells. 

TYPES

There are commonly two types, and each of their severity varies on the amount of genes affected. These are:

  • Beta thalassemia major. This is the most common and severe type of thalassemia. People born with this condition often experience the symptoms early in their life.
  • Thalassemia intermedia. It causes mild to severe symptoms.

SYMPTOMS

People with beta-thalassemia may have various symptoms depending on the type of thalassemia inherited. The symptoms for each type include:

Beta thalassemia major

  • Fussy
  • Pale skin
  • Having several infections
  • Poor appetite

Over time symptoms will emerge, including:

With no treatment, the heart, liver, and spleen will be enlarged. Also, the bone may become brittle, deformed, and thin. 

People with this type of condition require constant blood transfusions and may not have a longer life expectancy. 

Thalassemia intermedia

DIAGNOSIS

Doctors may diagnose beta thalassemia by examining the patient, asking about the symptoms, and using the following blood tests, including:

Moreover, these tests may be done using a blood sample.

TREATMENT

When it comes to beta thalassemia treatment, your doctor may figure out the proper treatment for you depending on:

  • Your medical history, general health, and age
  • Your current condition
  • How well you can manage certain therapies, procedure, or medicines
  • Your preference and choice

Furthermore, treatment includes:

  • Surgery in removing the spleen (if required)
  • Consistent blood transfusion
  • Iron chelation therapy
  • Genetic tests
  • Taking folic acid daily
  • Bone marrow transplant
  • Regular check-up, including liver and heart function

Remember to ask your doctor before taking iron supplements since many patients with this condition are given iron supplements by mistake. This occurs when lack of iron is assumed to cause their anemia. However, too much consumption of iron could be harmful. Therefore, it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and treatment to a blood disorder specialist. 

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