Physical Activity and Hemophilia

 

Physical activity helps in keeping muscles flexible, strengthens joints, and helps to maintain a healthy weight. Children and adults who have hemophilia should be physically active, but they may have limits on what they can do safely. People who have mild hemophilia can take part in many activities. Those who have severe hemophilia should avoid contact sports and other activities that are likely to lead to injuries that could cause bleeding. Examples of these activities include football, hockey, and wrestling.Physical therapists at HTCs can develop exercise programs tailored to patient’s needs and teach them how to exercise safely.

The patient can talk with the doctor or physical therapist about recommended types of physical activity and sports. In general, some safe physical activities are swimming, biking, walking, and golf.

To prevent bleeding, the patient also may be able to take clotting factors prior to exercise or a sporting event.

Some medicines increase the risk of bleeding, they should be avoided. Kinds of these are:

·                                 Aspirin and other medicines that contain salicylates

·                                 Ibuprofen, naproxen, and some other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines

The patient should talk with the doctor or pharmacist about which medicines are safe to take.

Treatment at home and when traveling

Home treatment with replacement therapy has many benefits. It lets about treating bleeding early, before complications are likely to develop. Home treatment also can prevent frequent trips to the doctor's office or hospital. This can give more independence and control over hemophilia.

However, if someone is treating him/herself or the child with clotting factors at home, they should take some steps for safety:

·               Follow instructions for storage, preparation, and use of clotting factors and treatment materials.

·               Keep a record of all medical treatment.

·               Know the signs and symptoms of bleeding, infection, or an allergic reaction, and know the correct way to respond.

·               Have someone with you when you treat yourself.

·               Know when to call the doctor or 9–1–1.

While traveling, be sure to take enough treatment supplies along. The patient also should carry a letter from the doctor describing hemophilia and treatment. It's a good idea to find out in advance where to go for care when out of town.

Cost Issues

Clotting factors are very costly. Many health insurance companies will only pay for clotting factors on a case-by-case basis. It's important to know:

·               What your insurance covers

·               Whether your insurance has a limit on the dollar amount it will cover and what that amount is

·               Whether restrictions or waiting periods apply

As children grow, it's important to learn about available options for insurance. Look into what kinds of health insurance are offered when seeking a job.