What is Thalassemia Minor? Symptoms And Causes

Thalassemia Minor: What is it?

Thalassemia is a genetic blood illness that is inherited, meaning it is handed down from parents to their offspring. It is brought on by insufficient production of haemoglobin, a protein that is essential to the formation of red blood cells. There are fewer healthy red blood cells flowing through the bloodstream when there is insufficient haemoglobin because the body's red blood cells don't function correctly and live shorter lives.

All of the body's cells receive oxygen from red blood cells. Cells need oxygen as a kind of sustenance in order to operate. A person may experience weakness, exhaustion, or shortness of breath when there are insufficient healthy red blood cells because these cells do not receive enough oxygen. This is referred to as anaemia. Anaemia in thalassemia patients can range from moderate to severe. Severe anaemia can be fatal and cause organ damage.

The problem is more severe in beta-thalassemia major. However, symptoms of beta thalassemia minor are usually weaker or completely absent. People with thalassemia may need frequent blood transfusions in more severe situations.

For individuals at risk, Manipal Hospitals, Baner offers accurate testing and expert care to ensure the condition is managed effectively.

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Signs and symptoms

When you have thalassemia, your body produces fewer red blood cells, which can cause anaemia or low blood count symptoms. Anaemia can cause you to feel weak and exhausted. However, the majority of patients are used to slightly low haemoglobin values and hence are completely fine without any problems While most individuals with thalassemia minor experience few or no symptoms, some may notice mild signs related to anaemia. Here’s a more detailed list of potential signs and symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness: A general feeling of tiredness or lack of energy due to reduced oxygen supply to the body.

• Pale Skin (Pallor): Slight lightening of the skin tone, often noticed during illness or physical exertion.

• Shortness of Breath: mild difficulty breathing during physical activity or exertion.

• Mild Jaundice: In rare cases, a yellowish tint to the skin or eyes is caused by the rapid breakdown of red blood cells.

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady, particularly after physical activity.

• Cold Hands and feet: Reduced circulation due to anaemia may cause extremities to feel cold.

• Headaches: Mild, persistent headaches due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain.

• Delayed Growth or Puberty (in rare cases): If anaemia is prolonged, it might affect growth patterns in children.

• Heart Palpitations: A sensation of an irregular or racing heartbeat due to the heart working harder to compensate for low oxygen levels.

Note:  Most of these symptoms are mild in thalassemia minor and often go unnoticed. However, they may become more evident during periods of stress, illness, or pregnancy when the body’s oxygen demands increase.
If you suspect any of these symptoms and have a family history or ancestry linked to thalassemia, consult a healthcare provider for blood testing and proper diagnosis.

Difficulties and Challenges in Thalassemia Minor

Thalassemia minor is generally a mild condition, but certain complications and challenges can arise, making regular monitoring and proper management crucial.

Key Challenges and Management Tips

• Iron Deficiency Anemia

People with thalassemia minor can also develop iron deficiency due to poor diet, blood loss, or pregnancy.
Regular Complete Blood Count (CBC) tests at Manipal Hospital, Baner can help distinguish between iron deficiency and anemia caused by thalassemia.
Iron supplements should only be taken if a deficiency is confirmed, as unnecessary supplementation can cause iron overload, damaging vital organs.

• Iron Overload

Excess iron may accumulate due to inappropriate supplementation or rare cases of repeated blood transfusions.
We advise against self-medicating with iron supplements and provide tailored treatments to prevent complications.

• Exacerbation During Stress or Illness

Conditions like infections, surgery, or pregnancy can worsen anaemia symptoms, leading to fatigue or weakness.
Regular monitoring at Manipal Hospital, Baner ensures early detection and effective management.

• Pregnancy Challenges

Pregnant women with thalassemia minor may experience lower haemoglobin levels due to increased blood volume and nutritional demands.
Our specialists provide regular testing and nutritional counselling to support both mother and baby.

Why CBC Monitoring is Essential?

Early Detection of Anemia Types: Differentiates between thalassemia-related anaemia and iron deficiency anaemia.

• Prevents Over - Treatment: Avoids unnecessary iron supplementation that may lead to iron overload.

• Tracks Health Over Time - Ensures that any changes in anaemia severity or new complications are promptly addressed.

Factors at risk

1. Family background

Since thalassemias are hereditary, the problem can occasionally run in families. Some people become aware of their thalassemia through family members who also have the illness.

2. Certain ancestry

Individuals who have relatives from specific regions of the world are more likely to develop thalassemia. People from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as those from Mediterranean nations like Greece and Turkey, are more likely to have thalassemia traits. If you have anaemia and family relatives from these regions, your physician may perform further blood testing to determine whether you have thalassemia.

3. Avoidance

Thalassemia is extremely difficult to prevent because it is inherited from parents to children. To find out your risk of passing on thalassemia to your offspring, you can consult a doctor if you or your spouse know of family members who have the disease or if you both have relatives from regions of the world where it is widespread.

Counselling and Pre-Marital Testing

Pre-marital testing is an important step for individuals at risk of thalassemia. Both partners can be tested to determine the likelihood of passing the condition to their children. Our pre-marital counselling services at Manipal Hospitals, Baner offer clarity and support for those planning a family.
 

Conclusion

Thalassemia minor is a manageable condition, but it requires awareness and proper medical care. At Manipal Hospitals, Baner, we emphasise regular health monitoring, accurate diagnosis, and preventive care to ensure you stay healthy. By understanding the challenges and taking the right steps, individuals with thalassemia minor can lead active and fulfilling lives.

For expert consultation and care, visit Manipal Hospitals, Baner, where your health is our priority.