Symptoms of Haemophilia
The symptoms of haemophilia primarily involve excessive or prolonged bleeding, often triggered by injury or surgery, but sometimes occurring spontaneously. For many, the symptoms of haemophilia begin in early childhood, especially in more severe forms. Because the condition interferes with the body’s ability to form stable blood clots, even minor wounds can result in persistent bleeding, and internal bleeding may occur without any visible cause.
Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in clotting factors—usually Factor VIII (haemophilia A) or Factor IX (haemophilia B). These proteins are essential in the cascade that enables blood to clot. When they’re missing or defective, bleeding episodes can become frequent, painful, and dangerous without proper treatment.
Key Signs of Haemophilia
The severity of haemophilia symptoms depends on how much clotting factor is present. Individuals are classified as having:
Severe haemophilia: <1% clotting factor
Moderate haemophilia: 1–5%
Mild haemophilia: 5–40%
Those with severe haemophilia may show symptoms early in life, often before their first birthday. Children with moderate or mild forms might not be diagnosed until a significant injury or surgery reveals abnormal bleeding.
External Bleeding Symptoms
Common external symptoms include:
Prolonged bleeding from cuts or wounds
Frequent nosebleeds that are hard to stop
Excessive bleeding after tooth loss, vaccinations, or minor surgical procedures
Bleeding that restarts hours after it seemed to stop
Even small cuts may bleed longer than expected. In mild cases, this may be the only symptom, sometimes only noticed after surgery or dental work.
Internal Bleeding Symptoms
Spontaneous or trauma-induced internal bleeding is a hallmark of moderate to severe haemophilia. This includes:
Joint Bleeding (Haemarthrosis)
Swelling, warmth, stiffness, or pain in joints (especially knees, ankles, and elbows)
Limitation of movement
Often the first noticeable sign in toddlers learning to walk
Repeated bleeds can cause permanent joint damage or deformities
Muscle Bleeding
Swelling and tightness in muscles
Numbness or tingling due to pressure on nerves
Pain, especially in the forearms, thighs, or calves
Deep Internal Bleeding
Occurs in the abdomen, pelvis, or chest
Symptoms include pain, bloating, nausea, or difficulty breathing
Can be life-threatening if not treated promptly
Brain Bleeding (Intracranial Haemorrhage)
One of the most serious complications:
May occur without trauma in severe cases
Signs include:
Persistent headache
Vomiting
Confusion or lethargy
Seizures or loss of consciousness
Vision or speech changes
This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
Other Symptoms
Blood in the urine (haematuria)
Blood in the stool
Excessive bruising, especially from minor bumps
Delayed healing after surgery or injury
These signs may be overlooked or misattributed in early life if bleeding episodes are not severe.
Symptoms in Newborns
Haemophilia is often diagnosed shortly after birth if:
There is prolonged bleeding after circumcision
Bleeding occurs after heel pricks or injections
Large bruises appear after minor handling
In families with known history, newborns may be screened at birth.
Symptoms in Carriers (Females)
Most people with haemophilia are male, but female carriers may experience:
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Easy bruising
Prolonged bleeding after surgery or dental work
Some carriers have factor levels low enough to be symptomatic, particularly for haemophilia A.
Symptom Triggers
While spontaneous bleeding occurs mostly in severe haemophilia, symptoms may also be triggered by:
Trauma (even minor)
Physical exertion
Surgery
Dental procedures
Injections or blood draws
Regular activity, such as walking or brushing teeth, usually doesn’t cause bleeding unless joints or gums are already vulnerable.
Conclusion | Symptoms of Haemophilia
The symptoms of haemophilia vary widely depending on severity, but the most consistent features include prolonged bleeding, joint pain, and bruising. In severe cases, spontaneous bleeding into joints and internal organs can lead to disability or life-threatening events. Recognising the symptoms of haemophilia early is vital to ensure proper management and prevent long-term complications through timely treatment and care.
