Blood disorders are conditions that affect the components and functions of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. They can disrupt the normal production and function of these components, leading to a variety of symptoms and health issues. Blood disorders are generally categorized into several types, including:

  1. Red Blood Cell Disorders: These affect the red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Examples include:
    • Anaemia: A condition where there is a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry sufficient oxygen to the body’s tissues. Types of anaemia include iron-deficiency anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia, and sickle cell anaemia.
    • Sickle Cell Disease: A genetic disorder where red blood cells are abnormally shaped, leading to blockages in blood flow and pain.
  2. White Blood Cell Disorders: These affect the white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infection. Examples include:
    • Leukaemia: A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.
    • Lymphoma: Cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system, and involves the white blood cells known as lymphocytes.
  3. Platelet Disorders: These affect platelets, which help with blood clotting. Examples include:
    • Thrombocytopenia: A condition characterized by a low platelet count, leading to increased bleeding and bruising.
    • Haemophilia: A genetic disorder where blood does not clot properly due to the lack of specific clotting factors.
  4. Plasma Cell Disorders: These affect the plasma, which is the liquid part of blood containing proteins, hormones, and waste products. Examples include:
    • Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells that can affect the production of healthy blood cells and antibodies.
    • Hypercoagulable States: Conditions that increase the risk of blood clot formation, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
  5. Inherited Blood Disorders: Genetic conditions passed down from parents, such as thalassemia and hereditary hemochromatosis.

Symptoms of blood disorders can vary widely depending on the type and severity, but may include fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, and abnormal clotting. Treatment also varies and may include medications, blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, or other targeted therapies depending on the specific disorder.

Do you have a specific blood disorder you’d like to learn more about, or any particular questions?

At Precious Medical Group (PMG), we are here to assist you further. Please feel free to contact us for any enquiry.