Thalassaemia is a hereditary blood disorder that impacts the normal production of haemoglobin, a protein that is an important of red blood cells. This vital protein in red blood cells facilitates the transportation of oxygen, ensuring nourishment for the body's cells. Thalassaemia results in low haemoglobin count and red blood cells, causing anaemia. Your body’s cells may lack enough oxygen for energy and overall health.
What are the Symptoms of Thalassaemia?
A patient’s life journey is shaped by the type and severity of their Thalassemia.
- Without symptoms (asymptomatic): Not possessing one alpha gene usually means no symptoms. If two alpha genes or one beta gene are missing, you might be asymptomatic or you could have mild anaemia symptoms such as fatigue.
- Mild-to-moderate symptoms: Thalassaemia disease symptoms might be mild anaemia, or more moderate issues in the case of beta Thalassaemia intermedia.
- Challenges in achieving normal growth
- Delayed puberty
- Bone irregularities associated with osteoporosis
- Enlarged spleen in the abdominal region
If you have skeletal problems, surgery may be necessary for correction. Your healthcare provider might opt for spleen removal in cases of significant spleen enlargement.
- Intense or severe symptoms: When three alpha genes are missing (Haemoglobin H disease), it can lead to anaemia symptoms from birth, resulting in painful, lifelong anaemia. Beta Thalassaemia major (Cooley’s anaemia) often shows noticeable severe symptoms by age 2.
Those related to mild to moderate disease are part of the symptoms of severe anaemia, with the possibility of additional symptoms, which include:
- Lack of appetite
- Skin showing paleness or a yellowish tint (jaundice)
- Dark or tea-coloured urine
- Irregular facial bone structure
Conclusion
Fortunately, treatment options are available for Thalassemia. The severity of the symptoms determines the extent and frequency of necessary treatments. Enquire with your healthcare provider about how your health insurance plan can support ongoing care. If you're planning a pregnancy and suspect Thalassaemia genes, seek genetic testing and guidance from a counsellor.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.