Haemophilia

Important points for people living with haemophilia

Treat the bleeds quickly!
When you stop the bleeding quickly, your child will have less pain and damage to joints, muscles and organs. Your child will need less amounts of clotting factor to control the bleeding.

Stay physically fit
Strong muscles help protect your child from joint problems and spontaneous bleeding (bleeding for no clear reason). Consult your haemophilia doctor or physiotherapist for advice on the appropriate sports and exercises for your child's condition.

Do not take NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents)
NSAIDs affect the function of platelets and can worsen bleeding. Examples of NSAIDs are Brufen and Aspirin. Other drugs can affect clotting too. Always seek your doctor's advice on whether the medicines are safe.

See a haemophilia doctor or nurse regularly
The Haematologist or Haematology Resource Nurse will give help and advice about managing your child's health.

Avoid injections into muscles
A muscle injection can cause painful bleeding. However, vaccinations are important and safe for a person with haemophilia, and can be given with appropriate precautions. Most other medications should be taken orally or injected into a vein rather than into a muscle. Speak to the Haematologist or Haematology Resource Nurse for advice.

Take care of your child's teeth
To prevent problems, follow your dentist's instructions and advice. Dental injections and surgery can cause major bleeding. Clotting factor should be given prior to dental procedures which can cause bleeding.

Carry medical identification with information about your health
Carry the World Federation of Haemophilia medical card or Medic Awas card with you at all times so that information about your child's condition and treatment plan is always available.

Learn basic first aid. Quick first aid helps manage bleeding
Remember that very small cuts, scratches, and bruises are usually not dangerous. They may not require treatment with clotting factor. First aid is often sufficient.

• Apply R.I.C.E* in cases of bruises that are not dangerous and rest the affected site for a period of time till bruises subside.
• Apply R.I.C.E* in serious bleeds and quickly seek medical attention within one to two hours of initial onset of bleeds.

*R.I.C.E refers to
Rest --> Ice -->Compression --> Elevation

In case of bleeds

During office hours (8.00am to 5.00pm)

• Contact the Children's Day Therapy Centre at +65 6394 2145 or the Haematology Resource Nurse at +65 8189 5298 to make an appointment. Consult a doctor and seek treatment within one to two hours from initial onset of bleeds.
• Children's Day Therapy Centre is located at Children's Tower, Level 7, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, next to Ward 76.

After office hours (before 8.00am and after 5.00pm)

• Bring your child to the Children's Emergency Department in KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Basement 1, to see a doctor and seek treatment within one to two hours from initial onset of bleeds.
• Inform the Haematology Resource Nurse at +65 8189 5298 on the next working day for advice on further management and follow up.