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Everything You Need to Know about Blood Disorders: A Guide

There are different types of blood disorders, some of which are more serious than others. Bleeding disorders, anemia, and white blood cell disorders are considered benign, while sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma are more serious and can cause chronic illness or be life-threatening. 

In this guide, we’ll go over different kinds of blood disorders and everything you need to know about them.

Kinds of Blood Disorders

1) Platelet Disorders

Platelets are small cell fragments that help with clotting. They play a role in healing and repair, as well as in helping with the inflammatory response to injury.

Platelet disorders refer to conditions where the body has an inadequate number of platelets or the platelets are unable to function properly. Platelets are a type of blood cell that is responsible for blood clot formation.

Platelet disorders can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired.

2) Red Blood Disorders

Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body. A lack of red blood cells is called anemia, and iron deficiency is the most common cause of this condition.

Other types of red blood cell disorders occur when red blood cells are unable to function properly. This can include a condition where red blood cells are unable to get the oxygen to the cells or when red blood cells are unable to move properly.

The number, size, and shape of red blood cells vary. There are conditions where red blood cells are smaller than normal, bigger than normal, or where they are shaped in an irregular fashion.

3) White Blood Cell Disorders

White blood cells protect the body against infection. There are different types of white blood cells, with neutrophils and lymphocytes being the most common.

White blood cell disorders can be congenital or acquired. Congenital disorders occur at birth. Acquired disorders are caused by external factors such as infections, inflammation, or autoimmune disorders.

What Causes Blood Disorders?

While many blood disorders are congenital, the number of acquired blood disorders is on the rise.

The most common cause of acquired disorders is autoimmune disorders. In autoimmune disorders, the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells and tissue, causing inflammation and damage. Examples of autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and lupus.

Other acquired disorders include lead poisoning, alcohol abuse, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and some medications.

How Do You Know If You Have a Blood Disorder?

Some blood disorders may be difficult to detect as they may have no symptoms, or the symptoms can be caused by other illnesses.

Other times, symptoms may be more obvious or severe, and they can be easy to recognize. However, it can be difficult to distinguish between the different types of blood disorders, especially if you have never had a blood test.

In general, it is recommended to see your doctor if you are experiencing bleeding that cannot be stopped, or if you are experiencing frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums, especially if you do not have an obvious cause.

Conclusion

Blood disorders are a very common issue. They are easily acquired and can be complicated or mild. Discussing the different types of blood disorders and the symptoms of each with a doctor can help you better understand what is going on and how to take care of it.

If you wish to know more about blood disorders and even become a donor, thplasma can help. We are a plasma donation center that can help you help others. Get in touch with us to learn how.