- By Priyanka Munshi
- Thu, 18 Apr 2024 05:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Hemophilia is a rare bleeding disorder that puts patients at risk for specific complications from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A lack of blood clotting factors in hemophilia patients can cause persistent bleeding from even small wounds. The chance of joint injury and bleeding issues may rise in those with hemophilia who also have RA.
Rheumatoid arthritis results in joint inflammation, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints. When a hemophiliac experiences bleeding in a rheumatoid arthritis-affected joint, it can exacerbate joint degeneration and potentially lead to major problems.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Jeet Savla, an orthopedic surgeon at Apollo Spectra Mumbai, discussed the association between hemophilia and rheumatoid arthritis.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune condition that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. Its symptoms include stiffness, fatigue, joint pain, and tender, warm, and swollen joints. The cause of RA is unclear, but as an autoimmune condition, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. RA causes joint destruction and arthritis and is linked to acquired hemophilia.
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What Is Hemophilia In Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Many people may not be aware of the increased risk of hemophilia in RA patients. Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the blood's ability to clot effectively, leading to prolonged bleeding episodes even from minor injuries. The connection between RA and hemophilia can cause joint damage and bleeding complications. Acquired hemophilia A is a rare type associated with autoimmune diseases such as RA. AH occurs in patients with no personal or family history of clotting or coagulation diseases. In RA, joint inflammation can erode cartilage and bone over time, increasing the risk of internal bleeding within affected joints. People with hemophilia already have defective clotting mechanisms, making them prone to sudden bleeds or hemorrhages. These conditions require a comprehensive treatment approach addressing both the inflammatory aspects of RA and the bleeding vulnerabilities of hemophilia.
Challenges Of Hemophilia And Rheumatoid Arthritis
Managing both conditions can be challenging. Patients with both hemophilia and RA may need specialized care and close monitoring to balance anti-inflammatory medications with the risk of bleeding episodes. Joint damage caused by RA can exacerbate symptoms in patients with acquired hemophilia, leading to increased pain and inflammation. A multidisciplinary approach involving hematologists and rheumatologists is crucial to developing individualized treatment plans.
Treatment For Hemophilia In Rheumatoid Arthritis
Treatment involves medications that tackle arthritis symptoms without compromising clotting function. Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs are crucial to managing both conditions simultaneously. This may involve close monitoring of clotting factors and joint health assessments. Timely management of both conditions can improve the patient's quality of life.