5 Tips for Healthy Living With Hemophilia

Although hemophilia has no cure, there are ways to manage the disease and avoid bleeding episodes. We’ve put together a list of tips to help patients live well with hemophilia using information from the Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

MORE: World’s largest genetic hemophilia research repository opens to U.S. researchers.

Exercise
Exercise is helpful for maintaining a healthy body weight and improve muscle and bone strength. People with hemophilia should avoid sports which are more likely to lead to injury and shouldn’t participate in contact sports. Safe exercise options include swimming, walking, and cycling.

Avoid Certain Medications
Hemophilia patients need to avoid taking certain medications that could thin the blood such as warfarin and heparin. They’ll also need to avoid over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Acetaminophen is safe for people with hemophilia to take for pain relief.

Practice Good Dental Hygiene
Thorough cleaning of teeth and gums is essential to help avoid any dental work which may lead to excessive bleeding. Dentists will be able to help advise on how best to keep teeth and gums healthy.

MORE: Phase 3 trials evaluating the further potential of two treatments for hemophilia A.

Keep Children Safe
Safety helmets, along with knee and elbow pads should be worn by children when cycling. Ensure they always wear their seatbelts in the car and try to discourage too much rough and tumble play. Keep the home as safe as possible by ensuring there are no sharp corners on furniture or tripping hazards.

Get Yearly Checkups and Vaccinations
Yearly checkups at a hemophilia treatment center are essential to ensure the best care. Patients should be tested regularly for blood infections and should speak to their doctor about hepatitis A and B vaccinations.

MORE: Hemophilia patients end up in the ER most often for hypertension and injuries.

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.