Bleeding disorders

What Are Bleeding Disorders?

Bleeding disorders are conditions that affect the way blood clots. Some people may experience prolonged bleeding after injuries, surgery, or spontaneous bleeding symptoms. Other people may discover them as a result of abnormal blood findings, or be investigated due to a family history of a bleeding disorder. These disorders can be inherited or acquired and range from mild to severe.

You may need to see a haematologist if you experience:

  • Unexplained bruising or excessive bleeding.

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding affecting daily life.

  • Bleeding complications after surgery, childbirth, or dental work.

  • A family history of bleeding disorders.

Examples of symptoms of bleeding disorders

  • Easy or excessive bruising

  • Frequent nosebleeds or gum bleeding

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

  • Prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury

  • Bleeding with tooth extractions

  • Joint or muscle bleeds

The Role of a Haematologist in Managing Bleeding Disorders

My role includes:

  1. Diagnosis and Investigations

    • Taking a targeted history from people to establish index of suspicion for a bleeding disorder

    • First-line blood investigations including clotting factor assays, von Willebrand screening, and genetic testing

    • I do not have access to platelet function testing and so I may sometimes recommend onwards referral to haematologists with a specific interest in bleeding disorders for additional comprehensive work-up where necessary.

  2. Personalised Treatment Plans

    • Helping establish treatment plans for bleeding conditions e.g. to cover dental work/planned operations, or to manage e.g. heavy menstrual bleeding.

    • Collaboration with specialist bleeding disorder centres where necessary and with surgical colleagues to help formulate individualised management plans.