Know more about Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder in which the body makes an abnormal type of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the protein molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This disorder results in destruction of red blood cells and not producing enough haemoglobin, which makes them dependent on the blood transfusion.

Symptoms

• Facial bone deformities
• Dark urine
• Delayed growth and development
• Excessive tiredness and fatigue
• Yellow or pale skin

Types of thalassemia

• Beta thalassemia, it includes the subtypes major and intermedia
• Alpha thalassemia, which include the subtypes hemoglobin H and hydrops fetalis
• Thalassemia minor

Thalassemia is most common in people from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Turkey.

Treatment

The treatment for thalassemia depends on the type and severity of disease involved. Doctor will give the patient a course of treatment accordingly.

Some of the treatments include

• Blood transfusions
• Bone marrow transplant
• Medications and supplements

Dr Nagavender Rao M
MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Senior Consultant Physician
OMNI Hospitals, Kukatpally