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Thalassemia is an inherited disorder, which affects the red blood cells of the body. The condition affects the formation of red blood cells and therefore impacts the body adversely. When the red blood cells are formed improperly, their ability to carry oxygen around the body is hampered. Oxygen serves as an important energy-generating resource for the cells of the body. When it does not reach all cells of the body, the body becomes oxygen starved. A person with Thalassemia may be light or severely anaemic. This would affect their energy levels, moods and in severe cases, anemia may also lead to death.
What are the types of Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a genetically inherited disorder. This means that it is a disorder which is passed on to the person, by their parents. Depending on the extent of genetic inheritance, and the type of gene inherited, there are broadly two distinct types of classification for Thalassemia:
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Thalassemia Minor
A person who inherits a gene of Thalassemia from one parent.
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Thalassemia Major
A person who inherits a gene of Thalassemia from both the parents.
People who inherit the Thalassemia gene from only one of the parents, or are diagnosed as Thalassemia Minor do not usually suffer any noticeable symptoms of Thalassemia. However, they do have a probability of passing the gene to their offspring. To get the finest treatment of this inherited disorder, visit the best hematology hospital in Delhi.
A person who inherits Thalassemia genes from both their parents has a high probability of developing Thalassemia moderate or Thalassemia major. Such individuals will experience low energy levels and anaemia during their lifetime.
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Thalassemia Alpha
If a person inherits the Thalassemia gene, which affects the formation of Alpha proteins in the red blood cells, they are said to be suffering from Thalassemia Alpha.
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Thalassemia Beta
If a person inherits the Thalassemia gene, which affects the formation of Beta proteins in the red blood cells, they are said to be suffering from Thalassemia Beta.
Also Read: Living with Thalassemia: Is a Normal Life Achievable?
What is normal blood and how does Thalassemia affect it?
In a normal, healthy individual, red blood cells contain haemoglobin, a molecule that carries oxygen, which is formed of the following:
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Alpha chains
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Beta chains
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Heme Ring
In the case of people suffering from Thalassemia, these chains are malformed and hence, haemoglobin structure is defective and red cells die in bone marrow due to the defective structure of haemoglobin and their ability to serve as oxygen carriers are hampered.
In simple terms, think of your red blood cells as food delivery agents and oxygen as food. Now if the delivery is not on time or insufficient, your organs will starve and may eventually shut down.
Is there a treatment for Thalassemia?
Yes, Thalassemia is a medical condition which can be managed. If you are diagnosed with Thalassemia, your doctor can guide you to treatment and management therapies like blood transfusion and chelation therapy. Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) has emerged as a curative treatment with promising clinical results. Consult with experienced BMT doctors, to pick the best treatment options for your health condition. Walk in to your nearest Manipal Hospitals, or book an online consultation with our expert doctors.
Common Symptoms of Thalassemia
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Low Energy
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Fatigue
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Anaemia
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Breathlessness
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Facial Bone Deformities
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Slow Growth in Children
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Dark Urine
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Abdominal Swelling (fluid retention)
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Paleness of Skin
Check out: Thalassemia Clinic In Bangalore
How do I know if I Have Thalassemia?
Simple blood tests can be done to diagnose Thalassemia. Parents who are planning pregnancy should definitely test themselves for thalassemia trait. Manipal Hospitals, Delhi has some of the best doctors for blood conditions in the city. With the most advanced medical technologies, Manipal Hospitals, Delhi is your safe bet in safeguarding the health of those you love.
How to prevent it?
Since the condition is inherited, preventing the birth of a child with thalassemia should be the aim. If you are a parent, or expecting parent on the road to family planning, get yourself and your spouse tested for thalassemia to ensure proper management of risks at the fetal level so your child would not have to suffer.
Thalassemia is a manageable condition with proper and timely medical care. Consult with hematology specialists in Delhi for better management and timely diagnosis. Book a consultation right away.
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