This year’s annual visit to my hemophilia treatment center
Therapy modifications, plus news about new resources and future procedures
December not only marks the end of the year, but it’s also the time for my annual visit to the specialists at my regional hemophilia treatment center (HTC). I live more than two hours away from them, so I appreciate the convenience of telehealth appointments, which are far more manageable. Still, an annual in-person visit to an HTC is essential for anyone with a bleeding disorder.
This year my appointment addressed a range of topics related to managing my von Willebrand disease and hemophilia B. Together my doctors and I reviewed my lab results and treatment plan, leading to adjustments in my doses of Humate-P and BeneFix because of some weight loss since my previous visit.
We also discussed my bleeding history over the past year. Aside from a bleed in my calf, there haven’t been many incidents requiring me to infuse my medications, for which I’m grateful. My hematologist and I revisited the results of genetic testing conducted last year, which ruled out Glanzmann thrombasthenia — a condition that earlier testing had flagged.
We also discussed the hematomas that occasionally appear when I inject Zepbound (tirzepatide), the weight-loss medication I’m currently using, into my stomach. Unfortunately, not much can be done for these bruising episodes, aside from applying ice and rotating the injection site. I find I bruise less when I inject into my thigh instead of my stomach.
As part of my routine check, my doctor asked about my medic alert bracelet. I confirmed that I have one and wear it regularly — a small but vital precaution for anyone with a bleeding disorder.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, we discussed plans for a colonoscopy in 2025. My doctor provided a treatment strategy to ensure everything goes smoothly when the time comes.
One of the most exciting updates from this year’s HTC visit was the introduction of a physical therapist to the team. This resource, available both in person and via telehealth, opens up opportunities for proactive care. Eventually, my HTC will have access to an ultrasound machine, which makes such a difference when monitoring joint health. As someone who’s often wondered about my bleeding disorders’ impact on my joints, this addition is particularly encouraging.
Annual HTC visits are far more than routine checkups; they’re opportunities to evaluate and evolve my care. These visits allow me to address ongoing health concerns, discuss future procedures, and incorporate new resources to enhance my quality of life.
Whether in person or through telehealth, I urge everyone in the bleeding disorders community to make annual HTC visits a priority. They’re a cornerstone of managing our rare and complex health needs.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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