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Treating Bleeds

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Treating Bleeds in Hemophilia

Clinical Guidelines

1. General Principles for Treating Bleeds

Treat Early

Bleeding should be treated as soon as it is suspected — ideally within the first 2 hours. Early treatment reduces joint damage and complications.

Factor First, Then Diagnostics

In trauma or suspected intracranial bleeding, administer clotting factor immediately before imaging or tests.

Individualized Dosing

Dosage depends on body weight, site of bleed, and target factor level. Higher factor levels are needed for life-threatening bleeds or surgery.

2. Standard Factor Levels by Bleed Type

Minor Bleeds (e.g., superficial cuts, early joint bleeds)

Target Factor Level: 30–50%. Duration: 1–2 days. Also use R.I.C.E protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).

Moderate Bleeds (e.g., muscle bleeds, oral bleeds, deeper joint bleeds)

Target Factor Level: 50–80%. Duration: 2–5 days. May require repeated infusions or antifibrinolytics for mucosal sites.

Severe or Life-Threatening Bleeds (e.g., intracranial, GI, neck, or throat bleeds)

Target Factor Level: 100% initially, maintain at 80–100% for 7–14 days. Emergency treatment required. Often hospitalized.

3. Bleed Site–Specific Guidelines

Joint Bleeds (Hemarthrosis)

Most common type. Signs: tingling, warmth, swelling, limited motion. Treat immediately with factor. Use R.I.C.E. Avoid weight-bearing until pain/swelling subsides. Follow with physiotherapy.

Muscle Bleeds

Deep bleeds (e.g., iliopsoas) can cause nerve compression. Signs: pain, swelling, stiffness. Treat as moderate to severe bleed. Monitor for compartment syndrome.

Head or Neck Bleeds

Medical emergency. Signs: headache, vomiting, drowsiness, seizure, stiff neck, difficulty breathing. Give full dose factor immediately, even before hospital transport.

Gastrointestinal Bleeds

Signs: abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black tarry stools. Requires hospitalization. Maintain high factor levels and monitor vitals.

Mucosal Bleeds (mouth, nose, gums)

Often require antifibrinolytics (e.g., tranexamic acid) along with factor. Avoid NSAIDs and trauma. Use soft toothbrushes and gentle oral hygiene.

4. Adjunct Treatments

Antifibrinolytics (e.g., Tranexamic Acid)

Support clot stability. Used in mucosal bleeds, dental procedures, or minor surgery. Do not use with aPCC (risk of thrombosis).

Pain Management

Use paracetamol (acetaminophen). Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs as they increase bleeding risk.

Physiotherapy After Bleeds

Essential to restore joint function and prevent contractures. Begin once pain and swelling have resolved.

5. Monitoring & Follow-Up

Check Factor Levels

Ensure target levels are maintained during treatment. Adjust dosing if inadequate response or inhibitor is suspected.

Monitor for Inhibitors

If bleeding persists despite adequate dosing, test for factor inhibitors (neutralizing antibodies).

Document Bleed Episodes

Maintain a bleed log for future reference. Helps in evaluating prophylaxis needs or recurrent target joints.

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