Thalassemia: A Hereditary Hemolytic Disorder

Thalassemia is an inherited hemolytic disease caused by genetic defects leading to impaired or complete absence of globin chain synthesis. Depending on the severity, it can be classified into three types: severe, intermediate, and mild.

Severe Thalassemia

1. In severe cases, patients develop jaundice shortly after birth, which gradually worsens. Concurrent symptoms include splenomegaly (enlarged spleen) and ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen). Without timely treatment, children may succumb within months.

Intermediate Thalassemia

2. Intermediate cases exhibit milder symptoms, typically manifesting during childhood with fatigue and proneness to exhaustion. As they age, symptoms may escalate to include dizziness, vertigo, palpitations, and shortness of breath. Left uncontrolled, this type can also be life-threatening.

Mild Thalassemia

3. Mild cases often show no apparent clinical symptoms, with the diagnosis confirmed during routine medical check-ups upon detecting abnormal red blood cell morphology. Currently, there is no cure for thalassemia, but medications can alleviate symptoms and extend lifespan.

Prevention and Management

If thalassemia runs in the family, premarital screening is recommended to mitigate the risk of transmitting the disease to offspring. Regular follow-ups are crucial for doctors to monitor patients' conditions and adjust treatment plans.

Precautions

1. Dietary wise, consume foods rich in vitamin C such as tomatoes and oranges to enhance iron absorption and prevent iron deficiency anemia.

2. Maintain adequate rest, foster a positive mindset, engage in moderate exercise to strengthen the immune system, and improve overall health.

3. Practice good hygiene, wash hands frequently, and ventilate spaces regularly to reduce infection risks.