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Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects how the body makes hemoglobin, part of red blood cells that carry oxygen. When the body cannot make enough healthy hemoglobin, it leads to anemia – a condition where the body does not get enough oxygen.
Thalassemia is transported from parents to children. This means that if one or both parents carry the gene, their child may be affected. Some children can only have a mild form, while others may have a more severe type. Initial identity is important so that treatment can start as soon as possible.
In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Kunal Shegal (Hematopathologist and Flow Cytometric Director in Newberg Sehgal Path Lab) and Dr. Subhashkash Sanyal (Director of Fortis Institute of Blood Disorder, Fortis Hospitalsin Mumbai) told about the signs of Thalassemia that every parent should look out:
1. Yellow skin (jaundice)
Children suffering from Thalassemia may look more than normal. Some can develop a yellow tint for your skin or eyes. This is because the body is breaking red blood cells very quickly.
2. Fatigue or weakness
One of the most common signs of thalassemia is fatigue. Children may look more tired than other children even after a good night sleep. They may not have the energy to play, run or stay active for a long time.
3. Slow growth or delayed development
Thalassemia can slow down a child’s growth. A child with untreated or severe thalassemia may be less than others or may take longer to reach a major developmental milestone such as walking or talking.
4. Persistent infection
Since their body is under stress due to not having enough healthy red blood cells, children with Thalassemia can become sick more often. Their immune system can be weaker than normal.
5. Belly or swelling of increased organs
Thalassemia can cause spleen and liver. You can see that your child’s stomach looks swollen or that looks firm or soft on the upper left of their stomach. This is because the spleen is working extra hard to filter unusual red blood cells.
6. Bone problems
In more severe cases, Thalassemia can affect bone growth, especially in the face and skull. The bones can be thin, brittle or mispen.
7. Dark urine
In Thalassemia, the breakdown of red blood cells can make the urine look deeper than normal. This is another sign that the body is not processing blood cells properly.
8. Irritability or mood change
If your child is not feeling good due to low oxygen levels, they can be hoarse or difficult. Children can cry more often and older children may look frustrated or low in the mood.
Note the readers: This article is only for informative purposes and is not an option for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any question about a medical condition.
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