8 Early Signs Of Talasemia In Children Who Are Often Ignored

Illustration of talasemia in children (Frepeic)

JAKARTA - Talasemia is a genetic blood disorder that can be recognized early on through a number of typical symptoms, especially in children. This disease affects the body's ability to produce adequate hemoglobin

The protein in red blood cells that brings oxygen throughout the body. Early detection of signs of talasemia is important so that medical treatment can be carried out immediately and serious complications can be prevented.

According to a report from the Hindustan Times, two hematologists Dr. Kunal Shegal from Neuberg Sehgal Path Lab and Dr. Subhaprakash Sanyal from Fortis Hospitals Mumbai explains a number of early characteristics of talasemia that parents should watch out for. Here are some general symptoms that can appear:

1. The skin looks pale or yellowing

Children with talasemia often show pale skin due to low levels of hemoglobin. In some cases, yellow color on the skin or white eye can also appear, as a result of too fast breaking of red blood cells.

2. Often feel tired or weak

Excessive fatigue is a common complaint for people with talasemia. Children may not look excited, get tired quickly while playing, or take longer to recover after their activities.

3. Perturbed physical growth

Heavy Talasemia can interfere with physical development. Children may experience delays in height growth and motor skills such as walking and speaking compared to children their age.

4. Vulnerable to infection

Lack of healthy red blood cells causes the child's immune system to become weaker. As a result, children are more susceptible to disease or experience repeated infections.

5. Swelling in the stomach area

The size of the liver and runoff can increase because these organs have to work harder to filter damaged blood cells. Parents can see swelling or stiffness in the upper left of the child's stomach.

6. Bone problems

In severe cases, the shape of the bone, especially on the face and skull, can change. Bones can become more fragile, thin, or abnormally grown.

7. The urine color is darker than usual

abnormal decomposition of red blood cells can cause children's urine to appear darker. This is a signal that the body does not process blood optimally.

8. Change of mood or anger

Uncomfortability due to low oxygen levels can make children more angry or fussy. Babies cry more often, while older children may appear gloomy or difficult to concentrate.

Talasemia is passed down from parents through genes, and the risk increases if one or both parents carry the nature of carriers (carriers) talasemia. O

Therefore, in addition to recognizing the symptoms, it is also important to conduct blood tests and genetic counseling, especially before planning a pregnancy, to prevent the birth of a child with major talasemia.