What Can I Do To Prevent Problems From A Bleeding Disorder?
Bleeding disorders are chronic conditions but there are many things you can do on your own to help prevent problems stemming from a bleeding disorder. In addition to ensuring you regularly visit your HTC doctor, physical therapist, and dentist, HoG’s online resource, The Hemophilia, von Willebrand, & Platelet Disorders Handbook, contains important information and great suggestions such as:
- Always treat your bleeding quickly. People with hemophilia should take factor right away.
- People with hemophilia should take factor before doing an activity likely to cause a bleed.
- Exercise at least three times a week. Follow the advice of your joint doctor (orthopedist) and physical therapist (PT).
- Brush and floss your teeth at least once a day.
- Eat regular, healthy meals.
- Try to stay near your ideal body weight.
- Get a good night's sleep.
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Take all the shots (vaccines) that you need and keep them updated.
- Check with your HTC before you start taking a new medicine or any herbal remedies.
- Keep treatment calendars that show the day and reason you treated, the name of the medication, the dosage, and, for factor concentrate, the lot number. Send copies to your HTC.
- Reorder factor or other medication before you run out.
- If you get factor concentrate in the emergency room, make sure the hospital always has some.
- Always wear a MedicAlert® tag.
- Clean up blood with bleach.
- Know what your health insurance covers.
- Get to know other families with bleeding disorders.
As always, it is important to speak to your doctor to find out what is best for you. If you have any questions, contact us at 770-518-8272.