Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is thalassaemia?
Thalassaemia is an inherited blood disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce normal haemoglobin, leading to anaemia and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
2. What causes thalassaemia?
Thalassaemia is caused by genetic changes inherited from parents. There are different types, including alpha-thalassaemia and beta-thalassaemia, depending on which part of haemoglobin is affected.
3. What are the symptoms of thalassaemia?
Symptoms vary with severity. Mild cases may have no noticeable symptoms, while more severe forms can cause fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, slow growth in children, bone deformities, and enlarged spleen.
4. What is the difference between thalassaemia trait and thalassaemia major?
Thalassaemia trait (carrier) usually causes mild or no symptoms. Thalassaemia major is severe, often requiring regular medical treatment including blood transfusions.
5. How is thalassaemia diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made with blood tests, including a complete blood count and haemoglobin electrophoresis. Genetic testing may be performed to confirm the type of thalassaemia.
6. How is thalassaemia treated?
Treatment depends on severity:
Mild cases may require little or no treatment. Severe cases may require regular blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and specialist care to prevent complications.
7. Can thalassaemia cause iron overload?
Yes. Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions can develop iron overload, which can damage the heart, liver, and endocrine organs, requiring treatment with iron chelation therapy.
8. Can people with thalassaemia take iron supplements?
Iron supplements should only be taken if iron deficiency is confirmed, as unnecessary iron can worsen iron overload.
9. Can thalassaemia be prevented?
Thalassaemia cannot be prevented, but carrier screening and genetic counselling help couples understand risks before having children.
10. When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you have unexplained anaemia, family history of thalassaemia, or are planning pregnancy and want carrier testing, as early diagnosis and monitoring are essential.
