Von Willebrand Disease is a blood disorder that causes the blood to clot improperly. This is because there is a missing blood factor in the blood called the Von Willebrand factor. People with VWD will have a low level of this protein in their blood, or the protein will not work as it should. Due to the clotting problems associated with this disease, things like surgery or injuries can cause bleeding that is not fully controlled. While rare, life-threatening complications can arise from this blood clotting disorder.
The most common symptoms of Von Willebrand Disease are:
This condition is almost always inherited from a parent. It can pass through both mother’s and father’s genetics to children. It is rare, but it is possible to get Von Willebrand Disease through a spontaneous genetic mutation. Immune system changes can also cause the appearance of VWD.
The risk factors related to this condition are largely genetic. If you have a family member who has VWD, you are more likely to have it as well. If you have an immune system disease, you might also be more likely to develop this condition spontaneously.
Diagnosis of this condition usually begins with the patient’s reported medical history. Patients who have suffered from bleeding issues in the past or frequent nosebleeds might be asked about the occurrence of these incidents by a doctor who recognizes the possible symptoms of VWD. Doctors will usually check for signs of unusual bruising or blood clots. A blood test will also be taken to identify the clotting factors in the blood and provide a certain diagnosis.
The severity of the condition will influence the treatment that is done to control VWD. Some patients can be treated through the use of a drug called Desmopressin Acetate. This can be injected or used as a nasal spray. There are also drugs that can be given to replace the missing clotting factor that is part of the disease process.
Antifibrinolytic drugs can be given to slow down or prevent the breakdown of blood clots as well. In some cases, birth control pills can help manage the excessive bleeding some women experience during their monthly cycle.
Patients are also advised to avoid becoming bruised or injured and to pay attention to pain or weakness that might indicate that a more serious bleed has occurred internally after a fall or injury. Getting emergency medical care for internal bleeding is key for patients with Von Willebrand Disease.
Prevention of this disease is not possible as it can only happen spontaneously or as a result of a genetic predisposition.