7 Important Signs & Symptoms Of Thalassemia!
- Updated on 08 May 2022
- Days and Festival
- Mautushi Paul
- 3 mins read
Topic Index
Introduction
Did you know that May 8th is World Thalassaemia Day? If you’re not familiar with thalassaemia, it’s a medical condition that affects the blood. And while thalassaemia may be something you’ve never heard of before, it’s actually quite common. In fact, an estimated 10 million people are living with thalassaemia worldwide. So what is thalassaemia, and what can be done to help those who have it? Read on to learn more.
7 important signs and symptoms of Thalassemia!
Thalassemia can cause several symptoms, including shortness of breath, pale skin, and dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your doctor right away in order to get proper treatment and manage your condition.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common signs of thalassemia is fatigue. This can be caused by a lack of iron in the blood, which can lead to anaemia. Anaemia is a condition in which there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. This can make you feel tired and weak.
2. Shortness of breath
Another common symptom of thalassemia is shortness of breath. This is also caused by anaemia and can make it difficult to catch your breath, even when you’re resting.
3. Pale skin
Pale skin is another common symptom of thalassemia. This happens because there are not enough healthy red blood cells to give your skin its standard colour. If you notice that your skin has a pale or yellow appearance, it’s essential to talk to your doctor.
4. Dark urine
Urine can also become darker if you have thalassemia. This happens because the breakdown of red blood cells produces bilirubin, which causes the urine to appear dark brown or even black.
5. Slow growth
If your child has thalassemia, one of the first signs is that they will be smaller than other children their age. This happens because the body is not getting enough red blood cells to transport oxygen and nutrients to its organs, including the brain. If you notice any of the above signs, it is important to talk to your doctor. Thalassemia can be a serious condition if left untreated, so it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
6. Frequent infections
Because a person with thalassemia has fewer red blood cells, their body is more susceptible to infection. This is because people with the disease have a reduced ability to fight off certain germs and bacteria that cause an infection. If left untreated, these conditions could become serious or even life-threatening.
7. Depression
Depression is a common symptom of thalassemia. The disease causes a person to feel weak, sickly, and tired more often than usual. Many people with thalassemia will also experience feelings of loneliness or isolation. If you are feeling depressed and think that it may be related to your condition, it is important to seek out help from a qualified doctor or therapist.
A few helpful parenting tips for kids suffering from thalassemia!
1. Stay positive.
Living with thalassemia can be difficult, but it is important to stay upbeat and focused on your child’s well-being.
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2. Allow them to get plenty of rest.
Kids suffering from thalassemia will often feel fatigued and exhausted much of the time, so making sure that they are getting adequate rest is crucial.
3. Encourage a healthy diet
Since thalassemia can often lead to anaemia, your child’s diet must be rich in iron and other essential nutrients for proper blood health.
4. Help them stay active and social
Kids with thalassemia need to stay active and social, as this can help them cope with the stresses of the condition.
5. Keep them informed
Ensure that your child is well informed about their condition and what they can do to manage it effectively. This will empower them and help them take control of their health.
6. Get regular medical check-ups
It is important to schedule regular check-ups with your child’s doctor so that they can monitor their condition and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.
7. Be there for them
Finally, it is important to be there for your child emotionally. Thalassemia can be difficult to deal with, and your child will need your support and understanding.
For parents of a child with thalassemia, one of the most important things you can do is provide them with the right support and care. This may involve helping them cope with the physical and emotional stresses of the condition, keeping them informed about their condition, and ensuring they get regular medical checkups. By taking these steps and working closely with your child’s doctor, you can help them live a happy and healthy life with thalassemia.
Conclusion
World Thalassemia Day is a day to raise awareness for thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder. People who have thalassemia need regular blood transfusions to survive. Unfortunately, there is no cure for thalassemia. However, with the help of family and friends, people who have thalassemia can live long and healthy lives. On this day, we ask that you take a moment to learn about this disorder and how you can support your loved ones who have it. If you are a parent of a child with thalassemia, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you navigate this difficult journey. We thank you for your courage and strength and are here to help you on your journey.
Also read:
Common Childhood Diseases Parents Should Know About!
