Clotting factors are substances in the blood that help stop bleeding after a cut or injury. They also prevent sudden bleeding. In people who have clotting factor problems, the clotting factors don't work right or, in some cases, are missing. When blood does not clot well, even minor injuries can cause serious bleeding. This can lead to blood loss, injury to internal organs, or damage to muscles or joints.
Several conditions, including hemophilia, can make it hard for the blood to clot. Your doctor can treat you by giving you replacement clotting factors. You also may take medicine to prevent bleeding. You may often have clotting factors transfused into a vein to prevent bleeding, or you may get them as needed. You may eventually learn to do this at home. You can also try to prevent injuries that can cause you to bleed.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if:
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Current as of:
February 5, 2016
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
& Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
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