What are blood disorders?
Haematology is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the blood and bone marrow as well as of the immunologic, blood clotting and vascular systems.
Your blood is a living tissue made up of liquid and solids. Red blood cells deliver oxygen from your lungs to your tissues and organs. White blood cells fight infection and are an important part of the body’s defence system. Platelets help your blood to clot, and bone marrow makes new blood cells.
How common are blood disorders?
The most common blood abnormalities are not serious but usually reactions of the body to treatable infections. Common blood disorders include anaemia, bleeding disorders like haemophilia, blood clots, and blood cancers.
How can blood disorders be prevented?
Blood disorders are not easily preventable. However, a good diet, plenty of exercise and fluids can generally improve your health.
Talking to your doctor is the first step to take if you believe you may have a blood condition. If you are diagnosed with a blood disorder, your doctor may refer you to a haematologist.
How are blood disorders treated?
Treatments for blood disorders vary depending on the severity of the condition. It can include diet advice, oral medication, intramuscular injections, blood transfusion, bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
With proper treatment, many sufferers of severe diseases survive a long time or, in some cases, are cured.
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