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Hemophilia and joint bleeds: Preventing damage and preserving your future mobility
Hemophilia, a rare genetic disorder where blood doesn't clot normally, typically presents with symptoms, such as spontaneous bleeding in joints and muscles, frequent and difficult-to-stop nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Joint health is key for the mobility and comfort of around 33,000 American males living with hemophilia. Joint bleeds can be painful and potentially debilitating for people with hemophilia.
Understanding hemophilia and joint bleeding
Joint bleeds, often affecting the knees, elbows, ankles, or hips, are characteristic of hemophilia. These bleeds may be spontaneous or result from seemingly minor injuries. In mild or moderate hemophilia, the symptoms of joint bleeds may not be immediately evident and sometimes may present as a mere tightness or tingling in the joint without pain or visible signs of bleeding. However, they can progress to joint pain, swelling, and reduced mobility, making early detection and treatment crucial for preventing long-term damage.
What causes joint bleeding in hemophilia?
When a joint undergoes stress during routine activities, the membrane lining the inner surface of the joint can bleed, particularly when pinched or stretched. Normally, the body’s clotting system quickly stops the bleeding. However, this bleeding continues in patients with hemophilia, and if left untreated, may lead to joint damage. The risk of bleeding increases with lower levels of clotting Factor VIII in the blood.
Who can experience joint bleeds?
Joint bleeding is a common symptom of hemophilia, which affects individuals irrespective of their severity. Patients with severe hemophilia often face chronic pain and disability as a result of joint bleeds.
Protect yourself from irreversible joint damage caused by hemophilia
Target joints and hemophilia
A "target joint" is one that experiences repeated bleeds, becoming a site of chronic concern. These joints are more susceptible to damage, leading to a reduced range of motion and chronic joint disease. The resulting pain and mobility issues can significantly impact daily activities.
It is imperative to seek prompt treatment for every joint bleed to mitigate the risk of joint damage. With the right management, people with hemophilia can lead fulfilling lives.
Understanding the cause and signs of joint bleeds and seeking treatment are critical steps in preserving joint health and mobility in people with hemophilia. By staying informed and proactive, those affected by hemophilia can protect their joints and effectively manage them with their doctor.
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Sanofi Hemophilia Community Relations and Education (CoRe) Managers offer education to
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ALTUVIIIO® [antihemophilic factor (recombinant), Fc-VWF-XTEN fusion protein-ehtl] is an injectable medicine that is used to control and reduce the number of bleeding episodes in people with hemophilia A (congenital Factor VIII deficiency).
Your healthcare provider may give you ALTUVIIIO when you have surgery.
What is the most important information I need to know about ALTUVIIIO?
Do not attempt to give yourself an injection unless you have been taught how by your healthcare provider or hemophilia center. You must carefully follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dose and schedule for injecting ALTUVIIIO so that your treatment will work best for you.
Who should not use ALTUVIIIO?
You should not use ALTUVIIIO if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using ALTUVIIIO?
Tell your healthcare provider if you have had any medical problems, take any medications, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, supplements, or herbal medicines, are breastfeeding, or are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What are the possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO?
You can have an allergic reaction to ALTUVIIIO. Call your healthcare provider or emergency department right away if you have any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the face, rash, or hives.
Your body can also make antibodies called “inhibitors” against ALTUVIIIO. This can stop ALTUVIIIO from working properly. Your healthcare provider may give you blood tests to check for inhibitors.
The common side effects of ALTUVIIIO are headache and joint pain.
These are not the only possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.
Please see full Prescribing Information.
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