How To Manage Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand disease is a type of chronic bleeding disorder that reduces the blood's ability to clot normally. Except for cases of acquired von Willebrand disease that occur later in life, the other forms of this condition are all inherited (genetic). Patients with von Willebrand disease may experience heavy menstrual periods, nosebleeds that last longer than ten minutes, blood in the urine or stool, and easy bruising. Patients with this disorder may notice that their bruises feel or look lumpy, and female patients can have excessively long periods. In addition, patients with von Willebrand disease might bleed more heavily than usual after having dental work or surgery, and they could also bleed more than normal after a minor cut or other injuries.
To diagnose von Willebrand disease, patients will usually have several blood tests, including tests to check the levels of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII. A ristocetin cofactor activity blood test and a von Willebrand factor multimers test will also be performed. Treatment for this condition varies depending on the severity of a patient's symptoms.
The following lifestyle modifications and medical treatments are often beneficial for patients with von Willebrand disease.
Wearing A Medical ID Bracelet
Wearing a medical ID bracelet can be particularly useful for patients with von Willebrand disease. Since this disorder is lifelong and often causes excessive bleeding, it is important for school staff, healthcare professionals, and emergency medical technicians to be aware of the fact a patient has this disorder in the event of an unexpected injury or emergency situation. The medical ID bracelet can provide this crucial information to appropriate personnel if the patient is incapacitated or unconscious, and this knowledge might enable them to provide the appropriate additional medicines to reduce bleeding. Some medical bracelets have enough space to include the patient's emergency contact information as well, and this could assist hospital staff or others trying to treat the patient.
Keep reading to reveal more options for treating von Willebrand disease now.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Pain Medication
Patients who have von Willebrand disease need to avoid blood-thinning pain medication as this could trigger excessive bleeding. In particular, acetylsalicylic acid should not be used, and doctors may recommend that patients also avoid ibuprofen and naproxen as well. Patients should consult their hematologist before taking any over-the-counter pain relievers or natural remedies for pain relief. Most hematologists suggest patients with this condition take acetaminophen to treat pain. If acetaminophen is not sufficient to relieve a patient's pain, the doctor may be able to prescribe a stronger pain reliever that is still safe for patients with von Willebrand disease and will not thin the blood. In addition to medication, patients may also wish to try drug-free remedies for pain, including heating pads, ice packs, and TENS machines.
Uncover more von Willebrand disease treatments now.
